Franz Anton Mehlem (Bonn), c. 1884-1889 - Egg holder set (7) - Earthenware

Complete table egg service – Franz Anton Mehlem (Bonn), c. 1884-1889

FRANZ ANTON MEHLEM
Franz Anton Mehlem’s manufacture, established in Bonn (Germany) in 1836, was one of the leading fine porcelain and stoneware firms in the Rhine region during the 19th century and the turn of the century.

It was internationally recognized for the technical quality of its pastes and glazes and for its refined designs, operating independently until its absorption by Villeroy & Boch in 1920 due to its enormous prestige and quality.

From 1884, the factory marketed under the name Steingut-Fabrik und Kunsttöpferei F.A. Mehlem, Inh. F. Guilleaume (Stoneware and Artistic Pottery Factory F.A. Mehlem, Owner F. Guilleaume). In 1890, the word "Royal" and the year "1755" were added to the company brand.

ARTICLE DESCRIPTION
Exceptional complete egg service for six guests, made in fine glazed stoneware.

The set consists of an elegant carrying base with a richly sculpted central handle and decorated with subtle gilded moldings. The base features a lobed body adorned with a perimetral frieze of geometric diamonds in sage green.

Accompanying the main structure are its six original independent egg cups, rising on a molded circular foot, designed with a perfect fit to rest securely in the circular holes of the support.

Aesthetically it belongs to Late Victorian Eclecticism, with marked traits of the Aesthetic Movement.
The design combines the functionality of tableware with historical ornamental details, visible here in the contrast between the geometric simplicity of the ivory-colored flat surfaces adorned with a diamond border that seeks symmetry and geometric order versus the sculptural work of the neorococo shapes of the handle and the refinement of the gilded lines.

AUTHENTICITY AND MARKS. The reverse of the base retains the original marks:
• Printed seal: Green logo with the inscription "FRANZ ANT. MEHLEM" / GERMANY under the crenellated Bonn castle silhouette.
• Numeric code: 7204 /31/9188/

DATING
The piece is dated with complete precision between 1884 and 1889. The initial limit is set by the introduction of this commercial name in 1884; the final limit is established by the absolute absence of the word "Royal" and the year "1755", elements that the factory incorporated in all its marks from 1890.

DIMENSIONS
• Base stand:
Length: 19.5 cm
Width: 18 cm
Height with handle: 10.5 cm

• Egg cups (each):
Mouth diameter: 4.8 cm
Height: 4.5 cm

CONDITION
The set is in excellent condition for its age. Exceptionally, it remains complete with all original pieces: a rarity for a utilitarian service where losses or breakages of the egg cups are common over the decades.

The glaze retains its shine; only the gilded edging shows some wear from use, especially on a few egg cups.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:
• The photographs are part of the description.
• The measurements and weight indicated correspond to the configuration of secure packaging, essential to guarantee proper protection of the pieces during transport.