A refined set of four divided earthenware plates produced by Faïencerie de Gien, France, each finished in a saturated honey-amber glaze with high gloss depth. Measuring 8.5 inches (21.6 cm) in diameter, these plates were designed for fondue or bourguignonne service, with sculptural compartmenting intended to separate sauces, accompaniments, or proteins at the table.
Each example is clearly stamped with the castle “GIEN FRANCE” backmark, a factory mark documented to the 1971–1984 production period, placing this set firmly within the late mid-century / early post-modern transition in French tableware design. The form and glaze align most closely with 1970s production, when Gien emphasized bold monochrome finishes and functional, display-forward serving pieces.
Founded in 1821 in the Loire Valley, Faïencerie de Gien is among France’s most established and collectible ceramic houses, long associated with the country’s art-of-the-table tradition. Clearly marked examples from this period are increasingly sought after for both use and decorative display, particularly in monochrome glazes that complement mid-century modern, French country, and contemporary interiors.
The glaze presents as a warm amber with mustard undertones, pooling subtly within the recessed divisions—an effect characteristic of quality faience firing. These plates read equally well stacked, wall-displayed, or used as intended for elevated entertaining.
Details
Maker: Faïencerie de Gien
Origin: France
Date: Backstamp 1971–1984; likely circa 1970s
Quantity: Set of four
Diameter: 8.5 in (21.6 cm) each
Mark: Castle over “GIEN FRANCE” (illustrated)
Condition
Good vintage condition overall. Surface characteristics consistent with glazed earthenware production and age. No structural damage observed. Please review photographs closely, as they form part of the condition description.
A refined set of four divided earthenware plates produced by Faïencerie de Gien, France, each finished in a saturated honey-amber glaze with high gloss depth. Measuring 8.5 inches (21.6 cm) in diameter, these plates were designed for fondue or bourguignonne service, with sculptural compartmenting intended to separate sauces, accompaniments, or proteins at the table.
Each example is clearly stamped with the castle “GIEN FRANCE” backmark, a factory mark documented to the 1971–1984 production period, placing this set firmly within the late mid-century / early post-modern transition in French tableware design. The form and glaze align most closely with 1970s production, when Gien emphasized bold monochrome finishes and functional, display-forward serving pieces.
Founded in 1821 in the Loire Valley, Faïencerie de Gien is among France’s most established and collectible ceramic houses, long associated with the country’s art-of-the-table tradition. Clearly marked examples from this period are increasingly sought after for both use and decorative display, particularly in monochrome glazes that complement mid-century modern, French country, and contemporary interiors.
The glaze presents as a warm amber with mustard undertones, pooling subtly within the recessed divisions—an effect characteristic of quality faience firing. These plates read equally well stacked, wall-displayed, or used as intended for elevated entertaining.
Details
Maker: Faïencerie de Gien
Origin: France
Date: Backstamp 1971–1984; likely circa 1970s
Quantity: Set of four
Diameter: 8.5 in (21.6 cm) each
Mark: Castle over “GIEN FRANCE” (illustrated)
Condition
Good vintage condition overall. Surface characteristics consistent with glazed earthenware production and age. No structural damage observed. Please review photographs closely, as they form part of the condition description.
Image 1 of 7
Image 2 of 7
Image 3 of 7
Image 4 of 7
Image 5 of 7
Image 6 of 7
Image 7 of 7
