Preliminary identification

Bernardaud & Co. Limoges Porcelain Vanity Set, c. 1900-1914

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

This is a classic four-piece Limoges porcelain vanity or 'dresser' set, featuring a hair receiver, a lidded powder jar, a tall perfume flacon, and a pin tray.

Story

The 'B & Co' mark on the underside dates this set precisely to the years leading up to World War I, a time when the vanity table was a woman's most private and curated sanctuary.

Maker / Origin

Bernardaud & Co. is one of the most prestigious names in Limoges porcelain, founded in 1863 and remarkably still family-owned today.

Condition & Value

The porcelain appears to be in excellent condition with no visible cracks or chips. There is some expected light wear to the gold gilding on the feet and the rim of the tray, which is typical for handled pieces. The metal lid shows a soft patina consistent with age.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD