Antique French Faience Platter | Cul Noir | Late 18th to Early 19th C.
This antique French cul noir faience platter is one of those pieces that makes you look twice. At first, it is the the color that catches you, somewhere between pale blue and turquoise, almost like old sea glass. Then the scalloped rim, the hand-painted design, and the deep manganese brown glaze start to tell the rest of the story.
The front is decorated in a soft "eau de Nil" (water of the Nile) tone, with the hallmark garden urn motif in the center. There is a geometric border of treillage and small floral panels around the rim. Turn it over and the back has the glossy dark brown finish associated with cul noir faience, meaning black bottom in French.
This example was likely made in Forges-les-Eaux in Normandy, or in a closely related Rouen-style workshop, and likely dates from the late 18th to mid 19th century.
The platter is generously proportioned and would have belonged at the center of a long table. You can imagine it carrying a roast from the kitchen, holding sliced fruit after lunch, or being brought out when the meal needed something larger and more beautiful than an everyday plate.
The age is visible in all the right places. There are chips and glaze losses along the rim where the terracotta shows through, fine crazing across the surface, and a soft iridescent sheen on the brown underside from long use and handling. An older but secure wall-hanging harness is already attached, so the platter can be displayed immediately.
It would make a beautiful anchor piece for a collection of Rouen, Nevers, Normandy faience, or other cul noir pottery. It has the presence of a serving piece, the softness of hand-painted faience, and that wonderful old French balance between usefulness and decoration.
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USA Pricing Information: Price includes duties, tariffs, customs, and shipping — no extra fees.
Antique French Faience Platter | Cul Noir | Late 18th to Early 19th C.
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How long does it take to process an order?
Each order is carefully prepared to ensure it arrives safely and beautifully. Processing typically takes 2-4 business days. During this time, your item is:
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Do you ship internationally?
Yes! We ship worldwide from France, with a few exceptions (Russia, Belarus, Iran, North Korea, Syria, and China due to customs restrictions).
We regularly ship to the United States, Canada, all EU Countries, Korea and Japan, where French antiques and vintage kitchenware are especially appreciated.
Orders to these destinations are handled with extra care and shipped with trusted carriers to ensure safe and timely delivery.
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Are returns or exchanges accepted?
We accept returns within 14 days of delivery in line with EU consumer law. Buyer covers return shipping and items must be returned in original condition. Refunds include the item price and original standard shipping.
We do not offer exchanges.
For more details, please see our Returns Policy.
Authenticity & Condition
Every piece is a genuine French or European antique or vintage find that has been carefully sourced in Provence and beyond.
We provide detailed photos and descriptions so you know exactly what you’re purchasing.
Signs of age such as patina or gentle wear are part of each item’s story and authenticity. They are not flaws but the character that makes antiques unique. If a piece has notable damage or restoration, we always state it clearly.
Our goal is to save you time and worry. When your order arrives, it matches what you saw online... authentic, original and ready to enjoy.
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