Pair of decorative French antique butter dishes by Ruaud

Pair of decorative French antique butter dishes by Ruaud
French, c. 1860
Height 14cm, width 19cm, depth 10cm

These charming 19th-century butter dishes reflect the whimsical creativity of mid-Victorian design. Made by Ruaud, a Limoges porcelain maker active between 1829 and 1869, each dish takes the form of a miniature sofa, decorated with bold hand-painted blue and gold geometric patterns.

Perched on each porcelain sofa is a playful figure—a man and a woman—dressed in eccentric, eye-catching attire. The man wears a vivid mix of purple, green, black, and orange, inspired by Western Orientalist style. The woman breaks convention with her trousers, pirate-style hat, and a cigar in hand—her pose both playful and subversive for the era. Delicate gilding highlights the folds of their garments, adding a touch of opulence.

Stamped ‘RUAUD’ and ‘B’ on the base, these novelty ceramics were designed to amuse while showcasing craftsmanship and creativity. Today, they stand as delightful conversation pieces and a rare glimpse into the humorous side of 19th-century French porcelain artistry.

Artist/Maker: Ruaud (French, 1829-1869)
Materials: Porcelian
Ref: N-0133A

$7000