How do I identify a reproduction?

Examine the weight and detail of the metal mounts alongside the ceramic markings. Authentic period pieces generally feature hand-chased bronze work and factory stamps beneath the glaze rather than modern printed marks. Inspect the wear patterns on the gilding and the construction joints of the wooden carcass if mounted on furniture. Genuine antique examples display consistent oxidation and hand-cut joinery appropriate to their stated century.

How should I clean porcelain plaques on furniture?

Dust the ceramic surfaces gently using a soft, dry artist's brush to remove particulate matter without abrading the enamel. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners or excess moisture that could seep into hairline cracks or damage the surrounding wood. Polished metal mounts require careful isolation from the porcelain during cleaning to prevent chemical reactions. Professional conservation is recommended for pieces with fragile or degraded gilding.

What distinguishes Sèvres-style from genuine Sèvres?

Authentic Sèvres pieces bear specific royal or factory ciphers denoting the year of manufacture and decorator marks from the French royal manufactory. Sèvres-style items were produced by other factories, such as Samson in Paris, paying homage to the famous aesthetic without claiming direct origin. Both categories hold distinct collector interest depending on the quality of the painting and the precision of the bronze mounts. Documentation and maker marks guide the distinction between primary factory output and later revival tributes.