Elite Works Limoges Floral and Gilded Cranberry Serving Bowl
Decorative Art, Hard-paste Porcelain Tableware • Elite Works (Bawo & Dotter), Limoges, France
Style & Movement
Belle Époque / Late Victorian Rococo Revival
Medium & Technique
Glazed porcelain with hand-painted floral motifs, transfer-ware elements, and heavy 22k gold gilt encrustation and scalloped beading
Creation Period
Late 19th to early 20th Century (Circa 1896-1914)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 9-11 inches in diameter; circular shallow bowl format
Subject Description
A shallow porcelain bowl featuring a wide cranberry-red (burgundy) interior band with intricate geometric gold-tooled lace patterns. The rim is decorated with a continuous garland of polychrome wildflowers including pink roses and daisies, finished with a scalloped, gilded beaded edge.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the porcelain body appears intact without visible chips or cracks
Estimated Market Value
$75 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$50 - $100 USD
Provenance History
Marked 'Elite France' and 'Limoges France' (Bawo & Dotter factory marks). Likely produced for the American export market through their New York distribution office.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the height of French porcelain production for the global Gilded Age market. Bawo & Dotter's 'Elite Works' was a major competitor to Haviland, known for high-quality translucency and elaborate gilding techniques.
Notable Features
Features the distinctive 'Elite France' red decorating mark and green underglaze factory mark; notable for the vibrant cranberry pigment which was expensive to produce due to gold-chloride content.
Condition Issues
Minor surface scratches to the white well and slight rubbing/wear to the gold gilding on the high points of the beaded rim, consistent with age and use.
Conservation Recommendations
Hand wash only with mild detergent; avoid abrasive sponges and dishwashers to preserve the gold leaf. Store with felt dividers to prevent stacking scratches.
Collector Notes
in bottom Elite France and Limoges France