We have been asked this question time and time again by customers and Limoges owners: “How do you safely open a Limoges box?”
Limoges boxes are quite delicate art pieces. Some Limoges box styles have narrow and fragile sections that if one tries to open the box pressing on these fragile areas, the Limoges box could certainly break or chip. So, it is quite important to know how to safely open and close a French porcelain Limoges box to retain its beauty.
French porcelain Limoges boxes are beautifully hand-painted (peint main) all around. Many have elaborate paintings in the interior or a surprise accessory piece inside. So, it is natural that you would want to open your Limoges box to show off your treasured miniature works of art.
When closed, the hinged Limoges box should be tight and make a click sound. Sadly, those who are not very familiar with French Limoges boxes, may try to force the Limoges box open and, as a result, damage the hinge or break or chip the porcelain.
Instructions On How To Safely Open A Limoges Box
When you become familiar with French porcelain Limoges boxes, you will learn that there is an easy and safe method to opening and closing your Limoges boxes. Below are some helpful pointers that, if followed, will ensure the safety and beauty of your exquisite art pieces.
1. To open, hold the Limoges box in one hand with the decorative clasp facing you.
2. Place both your thumbnails between the top and bottom rims of the Limoges box on both sides of the front clasp. Then gently press your thumbnails in the groove between the top and bottom pieces until the box clicks open.
3. Once the Limoges box clicks open, you can gently open the box, holding the top and bottom in both hands. The back hinge of the Limoges box is set to open only so far. You should remember to only open the box as far as it can be easily opened. If the box is forced to open wider, this can damage or break the hinge.
4. Limoges boxes come in a vast variety of shapes. The round or rectangular Limoges boxes can be much easier to open. For the tall Limoges boxes or various other shapes, you must remember to never hold the Limoges box by the porcelain section to open the box. That will put pressure on the porcelain and easily crack it.
5. You should know that the metal clasp on Limoges boxes is only a decorative piece and is not meant to be used for opening the box. When trying to open your Limoges box, if the hinge is too tight, you should not attempt to force the box open but, gently follow the top instructions until your Limoges box opens smoothly and safely. Using a knife or other sharp objects to open the box should be absolutely avoided because that will definitely scratch the metalwork and can easily damage the hinge or crack the porcelain.
6. Once you are done with viewing the interior of your Limoges box, you should close it softly and gently in the same manner. If the Limoges box is slammed shut, the strong pressure can crack or chip the porcelain.
Limoges boxes are valuable collectible art pieces that are a real joy to collect and proudly display. It is obvious that as a collector, you would want to show your treasured pieces to your friends and family. However, since not everyone is familiar on how to handle or open a Limoges box, it is advisable that when showing your Limoges boxes to others, you yourself would open the Limoges box and then hand it to your guests to admire.
Other than learning how to safely open and close your treasured Limoges boxes, you may also want to know how to safely clean them to keep your art pieces in their peak of beauty. See How To Clean A French Porcelain Limoges Box.
Now that you have mastered caring for your precious Limoges box collection, may we tempt you to browse our vast selection of Limoges boxes in every style and for every occasion.
At LimogesCollector.com, we are proud to offer an extensive selection of 100% authentic fine French Limoges boxes imported directly from Limoges, France as well as a large selection of retired, out-of-production and rare Limoges boxes.
Our selection of Limoges boxes features our exclusive, top-of-the-line Beauchamp Limoges brand. Many of the styles in this category can only be found at LimogesCollector.com.
Take a moment now to browse our complete collection of French Limoges boxes. You are sure to find many Limoges boxes that will catch your fancy and some that you cannot do without!
