Vintage Gien Plate Set, "Les Aventures du Crémier," Boxed Set of 6

This is a boxed set of 6 vintage plates from Gien depicting "Les Aventures du Cremier."

～ Les Aventures du Crémier (The Adventures of the Cheesemonger) ～

This is a boxed set of plates by Gien, produced around 1971-1984.

Designed by Marie-Pierre Boitard, this playful series tells the story of a Crémier (cheesemonger) who travels across France in search of delicious cheeses. The transfer prints are hand-colored by artisans, giving them a charming, warm, vintage feel.

What is a "Crémier"? In France, a Crémier is a professional or vendor specializing in dairy products such as cheese, butter, and milk. Beyond mere sales, they are experts who determine the optimal ripening stage of cheese and recommend the best time to enjoy it.

The Story Told on 6 Plates

1. Le Camembert

   "In 1791, a farmer's wife, Marie Harel, had our Crémier taste a cheese that was soft but not too crumbly, fruity with a hint of terroir. He was captivated. That was the beginning of... Camembert."

2. Le Brie

   "One day, as our Crémier passed through Coulommiers, he tasted the 'Bouchée à la Reine' dedicated to Queen Marie Leszczynska. What was the secret to this delicate flavor? It was the aroma of that ancient and famous cheese..."

3. Le Roquefort

   "Charles VI was a great gourmand. One day, captivated and satisfied by this taste in the region of Aveyron, he granted the villagers a charter for the exclusive sale of this delicious cheese..."

4. Le Chabichou

   "What is this wonderful goat aroma and tangy taste, he wondered, that he found in the heart of Poitou? Our Crémier asked himself, and when he brought it back for the city dwellers... it became everyone's favorite."

5. Le Valençay

   "Let's take a peek into Touraine, said our Crémier. And how great was his joy when he discovered its delicate pyramid shape with the top cut off, and its firm flesh hidden beneath a deep blue rind..."

6. Le Cœur de Bray (Neufchâtel)

   "In Normandy. A young lover with little money decided to give a cheese to express his feelings in the gentlest way. And so, this (heart-shaped) cheese was born..."

This set of plates is like a picture book, sparking conversation at the dinner table. It's perfect for practical use and also as a collection that evokes French food culture and history.

Condition:

Plates: There is beautiful crazing (fine cracks in the glaze) due to age. One plate has a tiny chip-like scratch of about 1mm on the rim, but otherwise, there is no significant damage, and it is in very good vintage condition. There is little sign of use, suggesting it has been carefully preserved.

Box: This is a very rare set that retains its original box and inspection slip from that time. The box has some dirt and scuffs due to age.

Size: Diameter 21cm x Height 2.5cm Box: Diameter 21.8cm x Height 9.2cm
Era: 1971-1984

【Please confirm before purchase】

This item is a vintage or antique product.
It has been imported for decorative purposes. Therefore, there is no guarantee regarding its safety or durability as tableware.
Please use it at your own discretion.
There may be age-related textures, small scratches from manufacturing, color unevenness, etc.
We ask for your understanding that these are characteristics unique to vintage items.