Collecting French Limoges boxes is much more than just a hobby. It is a passion for surrounding yourself with beautiful works of art.
An Art enthusiast, investor, passionate about beauty, one with great taste – these are just a few of the labels you could use to describe a Limoges collector.
We are delighted to feature an interview with an avid collector of French Limoges boxes. This interview provides a look behind the scenes of what’s in a collector’s motivations when collecting objects of art and beauty. In this interview you will discover an avid collector’s insights and experiences as well as advice on collecting French Limoges boxes.
How did you start collecting Limoges boxes? What was it that made you fall in love with Limoges boxes?
The first time I was introduced to French Limoges boxes was many, many years ago, when I attended a gem and jewelry show. Among hundreds of jewelry and gem booths and exhibits, there was one dealer displaying a large collection of Limoges boxes. One look, and I was hooked!
What was the first Limoges box you purchased (or received as a gift)?
My first purchase was two beautiful classic style Limoges boxes. At that time, I felt it was important to begin my collection honoring the heritage and tradition of Limoges art. Since the original style of Limoges boxes began with the classic style, that seemed the right place for me to start. Of course, since then, I have greatly expanded my collection which includes a large variety of styles.
Did your collecting Limoges boxes begin with you or with others in your family?
Several of my immediate family members have various collections of European art pieces. But, as far as collecting French Limoges boxes, I was the first in my family to collect these beautiful works of art. However, since then, some of my family members as well as friends have been inspired and have started their own Limoges collections.
Is there a specific style or theme of Limoges boxes you collect?
As my Limoges collection has grown through the years, I have added a variety of styles. One of the aspects I love about Limoges boxes is that they come in such a vast variety of styles. Since we all have a range of subjects that spark our interests, it has been very easy to pick a theme one-at-a-time and make a collection in that subject matter. Some of my favorite collection themes are travel, Disney, art, music, animals, and, of course, Christmas. My travel Limoges collection is growing by leaps and bounds as these treasure boxes are the perfect reminders of my love of travel and various travel destinations.
Do you have a “the one that got away” story you would like to share?
Oh, yes! Many years ago, I saw a very beautiful and rare Limoges box. It was a very ornate and highly detailed Limoges box in the shape of a peacock. I just fell in love with it but thought I could wait for a special occasion to purchase it. Well, it was sold before I could put two thoughts together. I have never seen one like it since! That experience taught me a lesson that if you see a Limoges box you really love to own, you should grab it while it’s available. I have also come to realize that many styles of Limoges boxes are made in small quantities and a very large selection have become quite rare. So, it is true with Limoges boxes that the “early bird catches the worm”. When it comes to acquiring collectible Limoges boxes, procrastination doesn’t pay!
What would you estimate is the size of your Limoges collection?
I don’t like to keep track of the numbers. But, I would say my collection numbers in at least one hundred. I would imagine that I, myself will be surprised to find a much larger numbers if I counted them!
What is your most treasured Limoges box?
Oh, that’s a really difficult question. I really love and admire all the pieces I have acquired. When I select Limoges boxes to purchase, I always make sure that the piece really has a special meaning to me. If I had to pick one Limoges box, I would pick a Chenonceau Castle Limoges box I purchased many years ago, which has now become quite rare. This piece is very special as it is a great reminder of a very fun and memorable family trip to France when we visited this beautiful chateau in the Loire Valley.
Do you collect any specific brand of Limoges boxes?
No. I am not particular about the specific brands of Limoges boxes. My decisions to purchase a Limoges box is based on how it matches my areas of interest, the quality of the Limoges box and how well it fits with the rest of my collection. Although I do prefer the Beauchamp brand as well as Rochard because their quality is usually the best.
How do you display your Limoges collection?
When your collection gets to a certain size, you can no longer display the Limoges boxes in one curio cabinet. So, I have come up with a very good solution. Not only I display some of my Limoges boxes in a large curio cabinet in my living room, I also have various wall cabinets that house certain styles of my Limoges boxes. I also put a few pieces as a grouping in different areas of my home. The holidays are always a fun time to bring out and display the holiday-related Limoges boxes.
Have you traveled to Limoges, France (or Paris) in search of Limoges boxes?
Yes. In my family’s European travels, we did visit the city of Limoges. However, we did not find many places where you could purchase Limoges boxes. A few shops in the center of town sold Limoges porcelain tableware and a few Limoges boxes. Even in Paris, we only could find one shop that sold Limoges boxes.
What other styles of Limoges boxes would you like to add to your collection?
My Limoges purchases are usually not based on a pre-determined style. When I see boxes that I really like or fit well with the rest of my collection, those are the ones I consider purchasing.
What do your friends and family think about your collection?
My Limoges collection has always been a great conversation piece with my friends and family members. Every time they visit my home, they always check to see if I have added any new pieces.
What is your advice for a beginner Limoges collector?
Knowing that everyone’s taste and areas of interest are different, my advice to a beginner Limoges collector is the following:
- First of all, do your research. Find out what styles of Limoges boxes are available and which ones will fit best with your taste. Also, find out about newly made styles and those that are retired and/or rare.
- Decide where you plan to display your Limoges boxes to best showcase them.
- Set a budget for your new collection. Base your purchase on what you love and not on the current price of the Limoges box.
- Pace yourself. Plan to purchase a new piece at different occasions. In this way, you will always be excited and eager to search for and find the new piece to add to your collection.
Let us know what you think ...
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