Faïencerie de Gien - Table service (16) - The cheeses - Earthenware, Enamel

Here is a charming fine earthenware cheese service signed Faïencerie de Gien, belonging to the decorative series 'Les Fromages' and dated from the 1970s-1980s according to the rectangular gold stamp visible on the back of each piece. Complete and harmonious, this set includes a large cheese platter with its central handle, fourteen matching individual plates, and a small rectangular serving dish. The set is distinguished by its rustic and refined decor, typical of Gien's pictorial style during this period.

Each piece of the service features the same decorative vocabulary: a central motif illustrating a rustic composition of stylized cheese wheels, flowers, and wheat stalks, surrounded by a double floral crown in soft hues — deep greens, delicate mauves, and warm browns. The large platter also includes a peripheral frieze mentioning various iconic cheeses (Brie, Comté, Valençay, Munster, etc.), written in black calligraphy in a traditional style. The plates, perfectly coordinated, feature the floral pattern in a central medallion. The small rectangular dish, designed for knives or condiments, is decorated on its outer walls with the same floral interlace, ensuring a perfect aesthetic unity.

The condition of this set is remarkable: the twelve plates, as well as the small rectangular dish, are in like-new condition, with no visible wear. The large tray, for its part, shows only two discreet cutlery marks, noted for accuracy. The fine concentric cracks observable in the glaze—typical on certain pieces—are due to natural crazing that occurs during firing and cooling of the earthenware; these are in no way signs of use or structural defects, but an inherent phenomenon of this traditional technique.

Founded in 1821, Gien pottery has established itself as one of the most prestigious French manufacturers, renowned for the richness of its decorations, the finesse of its enamels, and the consistency of its craftsmanship. During the 1970s and 1980s, Gien elegantly revisited rural and gastronomic decorative themes, embedding this type of service within a tradition that is both heritage-rich and decidedly convivial. The collection offered perfectly embodies this spirit: expressive, meticulously decorated earthenware designed to enhance the art of French tableware.

The average dimensions are:
plates
Height: 2.4 centimeters.
- Diameter: 19 centimeters.

* Plateau:
Height: 2.6 centimeters.
Diameter: 31.5 centimeters.

Rectangular flat
- Height: 3 centimeters,
Length: 16.3 centimeters.
Width: 7 centimeters.

Total weight of the set: 4775 grams.

Each of the 16 pieces will be carefully packaged, and the entire set will be shipped quickly and securely to arrive before the end-of-year holidays and to adorn the table. On-site pickup and group delivery are available. Photos are part of the description.