1960s French Majolica Oyster Service by Longchamp, 7 Pieces

This vintage French oyster and shellfish service by Longchamp, dating from the 1950s–60s, comprises six plates and one large serving platter in cream-glazed majolica. Each piece is molded in the form of a woven basket, with six shell-shaped wells arranged around a raised central reserve for sauce or lemon. The brown and cream decoration picks out the basket weave, shell ridges and rope-like center in a naturalistic way, giving the service a whimsical, slightly playful character while remaining fully functional for oysters or other shellfish. The reverse bears the Longchamp France mark.

Longchamp produced a number of shellfish services during the mid-20th century, often combining molded relief with the exuberant character associated with French barbotine tableware. This more restrained brown-and-cream palette makes the set especially easy to use, pairing comfortably with a wide range of table settings while allowing the sculptural shell forms to provide the decoration. No visible chips were noted, and the set presents very well overall.

It would be perfect for a summer seafood lunch, oyster supper or festive table, while the large platter could also be used independently for aperitif service. The plates would also look particularly good displayed on the wall of a seaside-house kitchen, where the shell motifs would add a playful coastal note.