Villeroy & Boch - Dinner service - 1562 - Earthenware - Large Cheese Dome

RARE Villeroy & Boch Mettlach Cheese Dome - Alt Strassburg Pattern - Model 1562 - Green Mercury Mark 1874-1909

An rare early 20th century cheese dome (kaasstolp) by Villeroy & Boch from their celebrated Mettlach factory, decorated in the iconic Alt Strassburg (Old Strasbourg) pattern. This beautifully hand-painted floral cheese dome in one of Villeroy & Boch's most beloved and enduring patterns is seldom encountered on the market—a true piece of European ceramic history.

THE ALT STRASSBURG PATTERN:
Alt Strassburg (also known as Altenrose or Old Strasbourg) is one of Villeroy & Boch's most iconic and collectible patterns, first introduced in the 18th century and inspired by traditional Alsatian floral designs. The pattern features delicate hand-painted bouquets of roses, tulips, forget-me-nots, and wildflowers in soft polychrome colors, scattered across a cream background with a distinctive green trim.

The Alt Strassburg pattern has been in continuous production for over 200 years, making it one of the longest-running patterns in European ceramics. However, early examples from the Mettlach factory with the Mercury mark (1874-1909) are rare and highly prized by collectors. The hand-painting quality and color vibrancy from this period are considered superior to later production.

Finding a Mettlach Alt Strassburg cheese dome from this era is extraordinarily rare. These functional pieces were subject to daily use and breakage—most have been damaged or lost entirely.


CONDITION:
Remarkably good condition for a piece over 100 years old. The hand-painted Alt Strassburg decoration remains bright and vibrant with minimal wear—a testament to the superior quality of Mettlach glazes.

Age-appropriate characteristics:
- Light crazing (fine glaze lines) on the dome—completely normal and desirable in antique earthenware, authenticating age
- Age-related spotting and discoloration on lowest inner/outer rim of dome—consistent with 100+ years, not visually distracting

Importantly:
- No chips, cracks, or repairs
- Set is complete (dome + matching plate)
For a functional ceramic piece of this age, this condition is exceptional.