The Refined Heritage of Schoelcher Paris: 19th-Century Hand-Painted Porcelain & Royal Aesthetics

The Essence of 18th & 19th-Century "Porcelaine de Paris"

Between the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Paris and its surroundings were home to a constellation of independent porcelain workshops crafting exquisite tableware for royal families, the aristocracy, and the high bourgeoisie. Collectively known as Porcelaine de Paris, these manufactories represented the pinnacle of French taste, innovation, and master craftsmanship.

Among these legendary ateliers, the house of Schoelcher holds a truly unique place—renowned for its exceptional technique, artistic independence, and dramatic history.

Triumphing Over the Revolution: The Journey of Marc Schoelcher

The history of the manufactory’s founder, Marc Schoelcher, is deeply entwined with the tumultuous events of French history.

Originally from Fessenheim in Alsace, young Marc moved to Paris with the intention of becoming a priest. However, the outbreak of the French Revolution in 1789 forced him to abandon his clerical ambitions. Turning his passion toward the ceramic arts, he became an apprentice under his cousin-in-law, the master porcelain maker Locré.

In 1798, Marc Schoelcher took a decisive step by purchasing the former workshops of the Count of Artois (brother of King Louis XVI) located on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis in Paris. Thus, Schoelcher Paris was officially born.

Early 19th-Century Aesthetics: Opulent Gilding and Trompe-l’œil

Although operating without the direct financial patronage of the Royal Crown or the Imperial Court, Schoelcher captivated the Parisian high society purely through unmatched technical perfection.

The early 19th century in France was defined by a taste for lavish, burnished gold Leaf gilding and virtuoso pictorial achievements—most notably the art of trompe-l’œil. Schoelcher artisans excelled at realistically reproducing precious natural textures on porcelain, such as cameo carvings, tortoiseshell, and polished marble. Today, these rare pieces are held in high esteem by prestigious museums and fine art collectors worldwide.

Curated Collection: Early 19th-Century Schoelcher Paris Hand-Painted Floral Plates (Set of 6)

Brococo Paris is privileged to present two rare sets of six early 19th-century porcelain plates attributed to the Schoelcher manufactory (c. 1798–1834).

Each plate features a distinct, individually hand-painted floral bouquet framed by delicate gilded detailing. These exquisite pieces beautifully evoke the poetry and sophistication of Parisian salon dining during the French Restoration era.

Living with History: Art of the Table

Encapsulating the refined spirit of 19th-century Parisian dining, these Schoelcher plates serve as both functional treasures for special gatherings and breathtaking display pieces for cabinet curation.

As a personal note, we actually decided to keep another set of six Schoelcher plates from this same acquisition for our own private collection. Beyond our role as antique dealers, we remain passionate collectors at heart, completely enamored by the historical weight, delicate artistry, and craftsmanship of these pieces.

We invite you to bring this authentic piece of French heritage into your home and table setting.

👉 View the Collection: Schoelcher Paris Porcelain Plates 6-Piece Set-1

👉 View the Collection: Schoelcher Paris Porcelain Plates 6-Piece Set-2