Mid-Century French Faience Coffee Service For 8 by Emile Tessier

A refined mid 20th century coffee service for eight by Emile Tessier, Malicorne, this petite set comprises eight cups with matching saucers in creamy off white faience. The flared, tulip shaped cups rise from beaded circular bases and carry twisted rope handles, while the saucers are edged with a neat applied irregular pearl border that repeats the beading at the cup foot. The glossy tin glaze reads warm white with subtle tonal variations typical of hand finished earthenware. Condition is very good, with light wear to the glaze and a few small firing irregularities consistent with age and use.

Emile Tessier, the renowned 20th-century French potter, was central to the revival of Malicorne’s faience tradition, preserving artisanal techniques while introducing designs that suited modern tastes. His work is distinguished by a balance of refinement and restraint, with decorative details that echo historic forms yet remain fresh and contemporary. (More about E. Tessier here)

This service layers beautifully on an open kitchen shelf, a butler’s pantry, or a breakfast nook where its soft white tone lightens wood and stone. Use it daily for espresso, or reserve it for dessert service with linens and old silver for a quiet, understated table. The cups also make charming bud vases on a console or tray, bringing a gentle French note to contemporary or traditional interiors. This service layers beautifully on an open kitchen shelf, a butler’s pantry, or a breakfast nook where its soft white tone lightens wood and stone. Use it daily for espresso, or reserve it for dessert service with linens and old silver for a quiet, understated table.  Its artisanal quality and Tessier signature make it a desirable piece for collectors of French faience.

A related service, adorned with festive gilt accents, is also offered separately for purchase here.