HB Quimper (Hubaudière-Bousquet)

HB Quimper Soleil Yellow Faïence Flat Cup | Breton Man | France c. 1940–1960

Name: HB Quimper Soleil Yellow Faïence Flat Cup | Breton Man | France c. 1940–1960
Brand: HB Quimper (Hubaudière-Bousquet)
Price: 38.00 USD
Availability: InStock

$38.00 USD

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Type:: Flat cup | Teacup
Style:: French faïence | Breton folk art
Era:: Mid-20th Century (1946 - 1969)
Circa:: 1940s - 1960s
Origin:: Quimper, Brittany, France
Maker:: HB Quimper (Hubaudière-Bousquet)
Material:: Tin-glazed earthenware (faïence)
Dimensions:: 4 ⅜″ diameter; 3″ H; 5 ⅛″ W (including handle)
Condition:: Good (G)
Color:: Soleil yellow
Decoration:: Hand-painted Breton man with heart-shaped floral motifs
Maker’s mark:: HB / QUIMPER / FRANCE / C. X. / 303
Notes:: Small rim chip (see photos)

A Bold Breton Figure in Soleil Yellow — Mid-Century HB Quimper Faïence

Collector’s Note

HB Quimper faïence pieces featuring Breton figures remain among the most recognizable and collectible forms of French faïence. Male and female figures were often produced as complementary designs, and collectors frequently seek to assemble pairs. Even mid-century examples such as this retain strong appeal for their hand-painted character, regional identity, and connection to one of France’s longest-standing ceramic traditions.

This HB Quimper flat cup is a striking example of mid-20th-century French faïence, finished in the highly desirable soleil yellow glaze and decorated with a traditional Breton male figure. Framed by heart-shaped floral motifs in rich blue, green, and red, the design reflects the enduring folk-art aesthetic that defines Quimper pottery.

Produced by HB Quimper (Hubaudière-Bousquet)—the oldest and most influential of the Quimper faïence factories—this piece continues a tradition dating back to the late 17th century. Each element is hand-painted, resulting in subtle variations in line and color that give the piece its individual character.

The flat cup form is both decorative and practical, with a broader, more sculptural profile than standard teacups.

✨ Decorating Appeal

With its vibrant soleil yellow ground and bold Breton figure, this piece adds instant warmth and color to a shelf, hutch, or open kitchen display. It pairs beautifully with other Quimper faïence—especially complementary male and female figure pieces—for a collected, layered look

The underside bears the mark HB / QUIMPER / FRANCE / C.X. / 303, dating the piece to circa 1940–1960 and identifying both the décor pattern and workshop production marks.

The cup measures approximately 4 ⅜″ in diameter, 3″ high, and 5 ⅛″ wide including the handle. It is in good vintage condition with age-appropriate wear. There is a small chip along the rim, clearly shown in the photographs. No cracks or repairs noted. The piece remains highly displayable and retains strong visual appeal.

Historical Note

Tin-glazed earthenware—known as faïence in France—has been produced in Quimper, Brittany since the late 17th century, when potter Jean-Baptiste Bousquet established one of the region’s first workshops around 1690. By the 19th century, Quimper had become renowned for its hand-painted ceramics.

Over time, several manufacturers shaped the tradition, including HB (Hubaudière-Bousquet) and Henriot. In 1968, these two historic makers were brought together under a single organization, uniting their molds, designs, and decorative styles. Today, Quimper faïence continues to be produced with the same hand-painted craftsmanship.

Explore our full French Faïence collection to mix and match timeless antique and vintage tin-glazed earthenware from notable French centers including Lunéville, Quimper, and Strasbourg.

Just a quick heads‑up: the photos reveal details far better than text alone, so they’re worth a close review.

We share as much accurate information as possible about each item—from provenance to condition—but the images often show the nuances best. If you ever need more details, we’re always happy to help.