Hi Dianne,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

Charles J. Ahrenfeldt (1807–1894) was born in Germany (Berlin), Charles J. Ahrenfeldt later moved to Paris in the mid-19th century. He entered the porcelain trade as a decorator and importer of porcelain made in the Limoges region of France. Around 1859, he established a porcelain decorating workshop in Limoges itself, becoming one of the early foreign entrepreneurs to recognize the growing prestige of Limoges porcelain. His firm purchased “white ware” blanks (undecorated porcelain) from Limoges manufacturers and then decorated them in Paris or in Limoges.

By the 1860s–70s, the company was producing both decorated and undecorated wares, ranging from table services to luxury ornamental pieces. His work was well regarded at international exhibitions — for example, medals at the Expositions Universelles in Paris (1867, 1878, 1889). His son, Charles Ahrenfeldt Jr. (1833–1894), expanded the business and became particularly successful in exporting Limoges porcelain to the United States. By the late 19th century, Ahrenfeldt was considered one of the largest exporters of Limoges porcelain to the American market. After Charles Jr.’s death, the company passed to other family members and successors, continuing well into the 20th century.

The mark on this was used between 1894 and 1930, which doesn't narrow it down tremendously. When most services of this or similar patterns come to auction, they usually bring between $5 and $7 per piece. Note that this will be less than what sellers (private sellers or antiques dealers) are likely to ask as retail prices.

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

An antique/vintage 73-piece Limoges parcel gilt porcelain part dinner service
retailed by Charles Ahrenfeldt, Limoges, France, DATE, comprising:
10 dinner plates (10")
10 salad plates (7-1/2")
12 dessert plates (6-1/2")
9 bowls (7")
8 bowls (5”)
6 coffee cups with 8 saucers
1 butter plate
1 gravy bowl
1 sugar bowl
1 cream pitcher
2 covered casseroles
1 small serving bowl
1 Serving platter (16 “)
CONDITION: This service appears to be in good condition; value assumes no chips, breaks, repairs or losses.
PROVENANCE: Inherited
VALUE: $375 to $525 for the service*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia