19th Century Antique French Longchamp Majolica Asparagus Plate

A late 19th century French antique asparagus plate by Longchamp featuring four sculptural, hand-painted asparagus spears tied with brown "ribbons" in high relief and enhanced by delicate, multi-colored floral bouquets and a classic scalloped rim accented with a fine red line. Two wells on each side of the asparagus spears for sauce.

The reverse side bears the impressed "Longchamp Terre de Fer" stamp, a mark of French ironstone known for its strength and lustrous finish.

• 10" dia
• Made in France by Longchamp, circa 1890 and 1910
• Great antique condition, no chips or cracks; light crazing and light that adds to its authentic character. One small nick on the back

History & Provenance: The Longchamp Legacy

This piece originates from the renowned Longchamp manufacture in the Burgundy region of France, established in 1832. By the late 19th century—the era of this specific plate—Longchamp had become a leader in the production of Terre de Fer (Ironstone), a superior earthenware refined with feldspar to achieve the durability of stoneware with the elegance of porcelain.

A Symbol of Belle Époque Dining During the late 1800s and early 1900s, French dining culture reached its peak of sophistication. Asparagus was considered a luxury "aristocratic" vegetable, and high-society hosts would commission specialized Barbotine (majolica) service sets specifically for the asparagus course.

The design of this plate reflects the Art Nouveau influence of the time, characterized by its "return to nature" motif. The hand-painted relief spears and delicate floral transferware captured the essence of the French countryside, bringing the garden directly to the table of the Parisian elite. To find a piece with such well-preserved color and its original "Terre de Fer" stamp is a rare window into the golden age of French ceramic artistry.