Antique French Cul Noir Faience Platter | Manganese Only | Late 18th.
This antique French cul noir platter is special because it is painted entirely in manganese. Most cul noir (black bottom) pieces have blue cobalt decoration on the pale tin-glazed front, with the dark manganese glaze reserved for the back. This one is different and rare. The front and back both carry that warm brown manganese tone, known in French as camaïeu manganèse, and that makes this piece much harder to find.
The platter likely dates from the late 18th century, around 1770 to 1800, consistent with Norman provincial faience from the period. The lobed shape, called "à contours" in French, was popular with regional workshops in Normandy. The front has a hand-painted basket of flowers at the center, with a simple foliate band tracing the shaped edge.
Turn it over and the deep manganese back gives the platter its cul noir identity. It contrasts beautifully with the lighter front but the all-manganese decoration is what makes this example so interesting. It is the kind of detail collectors notice because it sits outside the more common blue-and-white cul noir style.
The age is visible along the rim, where the glaze has thinned and the warm orange terracotta shows through. There is also wear to the back and surface from more than two centuries of handling, use and display. These are the details that give old French faience its depth.
Today, it would be beautiful hung on a wall, displayed on a sideboard, or set flat with a few pears or walnuts. It has the presence of a serving piece, the history of Norman country pottery, and the rarity of a color treatment that is genuinely difficult to source. It brings something absolutely distinctive to a cul noir collection.
-
USA Pricing Information: Price includes duties, tariffs, customs, and shipping — no extra fees.
Antique French Cul Noir Faience Platter | Manganese Only | Late 18th.
All the details you love
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:
- Checked one last time.
- Professionally packed for the utmost protection.
- Scheduled for pickup with a trusted shipping partner.
We don’t rush this step and it’s the extra time that makes sure your piece arrives exactly as expected, without damage or worry on your end.
For you, it means peace of mind: your item is in safe hands from the moment you click “purchase” until it’s at your door.
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.
If you’re in Hong Kong, Singapore or Taiwan, we also ship there.
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.
From Provence to Your Door
Rooted in Provence
A modern operation working at the slower pace of the South of France, with every piece chosen one at a time.
Carefully Prepared
Every piece is inspected, cleaned when necessary and professionally packed before it leaves Provence.
Thoughtfully Received
Shipping, customs and duties are handled in advance for United States customers. The experience is seamless.
Living with Provence
Every one of our items is a piece of French history looking to find its place and start its next chapter in your home.
