Antique French ironstone dinnerware service - blue & white

Dating from the late nineteenth century, this exquisite dinner service was made by the "Saint Amand et Hamage" faience. The pattern is called "Medaillon" and it is decorated with blue Louis XVI style motifs such as garlands, and the face in profile (known as a Medaillon in French). Saint-Amand-les-Eaux and Hamage in northern France are notable for their rich ceramics history. The pottery tradition in this region began in the early 18th century, with the establishment of several earthenware factories.

One of the most prominent early factories was founded by Nicolas Desmoutiers in 1705, producing tin-glazed faience with elaborate multicolored and blue camaieu designs. The industry flourished in the 19th century, particularly after the factory "Manufacture de Faïence et de Porcelaines" was established in 1887, later expanding with the opening of a second factory in Wandignies-Hamage in 1896, which registered the mark "Saint Amand et Hamage Nord"​​. By the early 20th century, the ceramics production in Saint-Amand was thriving, with companies like "Céranord" producing a wide variety of decorative and utilitarian pottery.

The factories employed innovative techniques and artistic styles, including influences from the Lunéville and Saint Clément styles. However, the industry faced challenges and many factories closed by the mid-20th century, with only a few continuing operations until the 1980s​ Some chips and wear as seen in photos.