Elevate your dining experience with vintage tableware

Antique French dinnerware is making a strong comeback on all kinds of tables, bringing an olde worlde charm to both everyday meals and special occasions. Whether classic or rustic, the style embodies an art of living in which each plate tells an Instagrammable story. This lasting trend draws in nostalgics and lovers of eclectic compositions, imbuing a casual yet elegant look to French tableware. Here’s an overview of this timeless aesthetic and the collections that are applying their own stylish takes to seasoned favourites.

The many advantages of vintage tableware

Centuries of fine regional traditions

Classic French tableware reflects centuries-old know-how. Limoges porcelain rubs shoulders with Quimper earthenware and Malicorne glazed ceramics, each region asserting its identity through patterns inspired by nature and local folklore. Over the years, this artisanal heritage has preserved its traditions and embraced creativity, enduring through the ages without losing its lustre.

From preloved plates to contemporary crockery collections

While the aesthetics of antique tableware have strongly inspired French tableware brands, the art of bargain hunting is more popular than ever. Unique treasures can be unearthed at flea markets, jumble sales and antique shops, and by giving these objects a second life, buyers are promoting artisanal heritage while protecting the environment and the future of our planet.

Country-house charm

With soft hues, plant motifs and rounded shapes, antique tableware conjures up a timeless family atmosphere. It goes perfectly with weathered wood, washed linen and bouquets of wildflowers: other quintessential elements in the theme. French countryside dinnerware collections are seductively simple with their nods to days gone by, whether presented in sets or intentionally mismatched.

Signature eye-catching collections

Pickles Table Wear: the art of remixed porcelain

Renowned for its creations inspired by antique dinner services, P ickles Table Wear revisits this vintage aesthetic through a contemporary lens.

The Lorgnette collection uses colour blocks and transparent sections to hide or reveal the patterns of yesteryear.

Bourg-Joly Malicorne: French earthenware in vogue

For over 250 years, Bourg-Joly Malicorne has been perpetuating the art of earthenware with unparalleled precision.

The deliciously retro and customisable Vine Leaf plate benefits from the brand’s artisanal know-how for a rustic-kitsch look.

Vaiselle ancienne vaiselle vintage Bourg Joly Malicorne

The Réfectoire by Jars: delightful sharing platters

Drawing on the aesthetics of childhood canteens and station bistros, the Réfectoire capsule by the ceramists at Jars takes a fresh look at everyday tableware with special attention to materials and finishes.

Based on the imprint of the stainless steel dish and available in a matte and glossy finish, the pieces bring back memories of generous portions and family feasts.

Gien: from classic motifs to eclectic combinations

With its Les Dépareillées Vert collection, the Faïencerie de Gien factory celebrates the art of mixing and matching through playful prints and emerald shades designed to create harmony through difference.

The Vue d’Orient service sparks a dialogue between unique appeal, neo-colonial style and a modern eye.

Assiette vintage, ancienne - Faïencerie de Gien

Setting a table with antique or vintage tableware is an invitation to a trip down memory lane and a unique sensory experience. Plates with delicate patinas and dishes decorated with pastoral motifs make mealtimes a joy for the eyes as well as the appetite. Far removed from conventional standards, this is a fresh approach to the art of hosting. It’s an opportunity to contribute a personal touch and a taste for detail that makes all the difference.