The Castiglione (Porcelain Sauce Boat or Tureen)
Ceramic; Decorative Arts / Hard-paste Porcelain • Haviland - Charles Field Haviland (Limoges, France); manufacture GDA (Gérard, Dufraisseix and Abbot)
Style & Movement
Belle Époque / Neoclassical Revival
Medium & Technique
Hand-painted and transfer-printed hard-paste porcelain with gilded accents; glazed and kiln-fired.
Creation Period
Early 20th Century (circa 1900-1920)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 7-9 inches in length; oval footed format.
Subject Description
White porcelain vessel featuring the 'Castiglione' pattern, characterized by a delicate green laurel leaf garland border and refined gilded edges. The form is oval and utilitarian for fine dining.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the glaze remains bright and the markings are crisp, though the foot rim shows minor shelf wear.
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD (per individual piece, depending on the full set availability)
Auction Estimate
$40 - $80 USD
Provenance History
French origin (Limoges); indicates export for the international high-end tableware market. Backstamps include 'GDA France' and the red 'Ch. Field Haviland Limoges' mark.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the height of the Limoges porcelain industry in France, specifically the collaboration between the Haviland family and GDA, reflecting early 20th-century luxury dining standards.
Notable Features
Includes three distinct backstamps: the GDA manufacturer mark, the Charles Field Haviland decorator mark, and the specific pattern name 'The Castiglione' in red script.
Condition Issues
Minor surface scratches consistent with age; light scuffing on the unglazed foot rim; possible slight thinning of gold gilding on high-contact edges.
Conservation Recommendations
Hand wash only with mild detergent; avoid abrasive sponges and dishwashers to preserve the gilding and delicate transfer pattern.