18th century French Nevers faïence French Revolution tin glazed shaving bowl

An incredible piece of French revolutionary and pottery history, this antique shaving bowl from the French Nevers Manufacture with revolutionary decoration that bears the Latin mention "Vis unita fortior” as well as the date 1790.

Called “faïence parlante” or “faïence patriotique”, dishes and bowls painted with images or mottos of the French Revolution (1789-1799) reflected the political allegiances of those who displayed these pieces in their homes.

This dish highlights the royal crown from which comes a green banner or ribbon behind the three crossed Orders (the sword, the Cross and the spade head down) and the green ribbons form draping bows. 

In incredible antique condition, remarkably preserved with slight signs of superficial wear as shown. 

HISTORY OF SHAVING BOWLS

“Beard dishes” or shaving dishes were used by barbers in the 18th and 19th centuries and have historically had a specific shape. The lower part of the cut, called the chin strap, allowed the barber to place the dish under the client’s chin to receive the shaved beard hair and foam. These objects are sometimes provided with one or two impressions on the sides of the rim—one to foam the soap and the other to hold the ball that was placed between the jaw and the cheek in order to stretch the skin and facilitate shaving.  

Usually in silverware, copper, porcelain or earthenware, the bearded dish was often richly decorated. Equipped with a ring fixed on an edge or holes, it could be hung on a wall or in a piece of furniture. It was also stored after use in a piece of furniture called barbière.
  

dimensions: 11.75"W x 9.5"D x 2.75"H