| |
Chamart Limoges Boxes |
|
| |
The history of the Limoges box in France dates back to the 18th century, but its story in the U.S. all began with Chamart… |
|
 |
Hold one of Chamart's lovely Limoges boxes in your hand, and you will know you are holding a miniature work of art. For that reason Chamart Limoges boxes are carried in the finest specialty and gift stores and museum shops. We are very pleased to feature a wonderful and always growing collection of Chamart boxes on our web site. |
|
| |
Chamart's founder, Charles Martine, began importing fine French porcelain to the United States in the early 1950's, and by 1965 had expanded the company's line to introduce the first collection of wonderful French Limoges boxes.
As collectors developed a passion for these charming little treasures, the company continued to expand its Limoges box line over the years, now numbering over 2,500 different styles. The vast majority of these are exclusive to Chamart. |
 |
| |
|
Leny Davidson, Charles Martine's niece, is Chamart's president. Mrs. Davidson travels to Limoges regularly and works closely with the various ateliers and artists who produce each Chamart box. |
|
|
| |
 |
Mrs. Davidson is uncompromising in maintaining Chamart's high standards for extraordinary craftsmanship and hand painting. No decals, transfers or stencils are ever used. Shortcuts of any kind are simply unthinkable at Chamart. |
|
|
It is highly unusual for more than 850 to be made of any particular box, making each Chamart box quite collectible. The Atelier Chamart collection of exquisite limited edition floral relief boxes, a Chamart specialty, are breathtakingly stunning and are limited to no more than 300.
In photographing them, we have been struck by how consistently photogenic Chamart's boxes are. This is a tribute to their graceful contours, stunning application of color, and truly exquisite hand painting and detailing. Many have delightful little porcelain surprises inside.
|
 |
| |
Chamart's Limoges boxes cover every conceivable theme: classical designs, flowers and garden, animals, fashion accessories, hobbies, hearts, religion, art, music, holidays, special occasion, travel, romantic, whimsical humor… and the list goes on… and on ..
|
|
|
