Antique "Louis XV" Wash Set - Sarreguemines pour Emile Bourgeois, Paris - c1880s

This is more than a toiletry set—it’s a window into the elegance of late 19th-century French craftsmanship. Created by Sarreguemines, a pottery house celebrated for its exceptional artistry, this set was commissioned for Emile Bourgeois’ legendary "Le Grand Dépôt" in Paris.

This set showcases the iconic Louis XV pattern, renowned for its whimsical floral swirls and refined cream background. The ensemble includes a generously sized basin, an elegant water jug, and a soap dish with a removable plate—a design as functional as it is beautiful.

Sarreguemines, founded in 1790, was a leader in faïence production, blending technical expertise with an eye for decorative art. This partnership with Bourgeois resulted in pieces that embody French sophistication and craftsmanship. 

Emile Bourgeois was a visionary retailer who transformed the way fine porcelain and tableware were sold in France. After years in London working with Stoke-on-Trent manufacturers, he returned to Paris and opened his now-iconic store in 1862. Known for curating the finest European ceramics, often produced to his specifications, Bourgeois' shop quickly became synonymous with quality and innovation, earning a reputation as "the largest house in the world for table, dessert, and crystal services."

Whether used for its original purpose or displayed as a striking decorative piece, this toiletry set is a true testament to the artistry and vision of Emile Bourgeois and Sarreguemines. A rare find for lovers of history and design, it’s a statement of timeless elegance.

• Material: Ironstone
• Style: Art Nouveau
• Technique: Glazed Ironstone
• Place of Origin: France
• Mark: The jug wears the well-known Sarreguemines mark used from 1875 to 1900. Both the soap dish and the basin feature another mark: "E. Bourgeois, Paris".
• Date of Manufacture: 1890s
• Condition: 
  Jug: Perfect vintage condition: no cracks or chips, some light crazing
  Basin: Perfect vintage condition: no cracks or chips. Wear on the handles. Some light crazing
  Soap Dish: good vintage condition: there is a small chip on the upper edge of the dish.

Dimension:
Jug:
Height: 28 cm | 11 in
Diameter: 20 cm | 6.2 in
Weight: 1.5 kg

Basin:
Width: 45 cm | 17.7 in
Depth: 30 cm | 11.8 in
Height: 20 cm | 7.9 in
Weight: 4.2 kg

Soap Dish:
Width: 15 cm | 5.9 in
Depth: 10 cm | 3.9 in
Height: 5 cm | 1.9 in
Weight: 0.4 kg