French Samson Chinese Export-Style Porcelain Mug, 19th century

Fine antique porcelain famille rose mug by Samson of Paris and dating from the later 19th century. The mug is of cylindrical shape with a simple ear shaped loop handle with underglaze blue banding embellished with gold. It is over painted in Chinese style with delicate flowers in mauve and green enamels. As is typical for these, the mug is not marked.

In excellent condition. Kiln grit to foot.

Edme Samson - better known as the “Great Imitator” - started his porcelain repair and replacement service in Paris in the 1830s. His firm became known for quality reproductions of famous museum pieces reproduced for clients that desired similar pieces. Samson expertly copied a wide range of pieces including Chinese Export, Meissen, and Derby. His copies were so artistic and exquisite in quality that they have become collectable in their own right.