Robert Haviland & C. Parlon

Luxury connoisseurs will find here centuries-old traditions, the craftsmanship of generations of Limoges artisans, breathtaking beauty, and a level of prestige once reserved for kings, presidents, and world-class residences.

Haviland & Parlon: From Its Origins to Today

Every old or young Limoges porcelain house always holds a rich history. Behind every founding, there is always a stroke of luck or a story of determination, dreams, and creative ideas. The story of this French manufactory didn’t start so simply either: it grew from the famous Haviland Limoges, which gave rise to a new, but no less legendary, tableware brand.

• Robert Haviland II, the great-grandson of David Haviland, opened his own porcelain manufactory in Limoges in 1924, and by carrying the famous family name and earning its support, he gave life to what is now an equally renowned name in luxury tableware.
• By the mid-20th century, Robert Haviland and his creations had earned recognition in the French art of table setting, supplying porcelain to prestigious institutions.
• After World War II, a new partner, Camille Parlon, joined the business, and in 1949 the company was renamed Haviland and Parlon China, sparking a wave of innovations, ambitious projects, and the revival of historic masterpieces.
• Since 1980, thanks to the refinement of its décor, impeccable French quality, and the use of precious materials, the porcelain began winning over an elite audience around the world: the company’s clients included royal families, palaces, as well as embassies, and the residences of prime ministers and presidents.
• In 2020, a new era began in the company’s history: it was acquired by two Limoges natives, sisters Marie-Amélie and Marie-Caroline Guillot. They modernized the operations, expanded the team, and brought the brand to a wider retail audience—all while staying true to the core qualities of its creations.

The Magic of Haviland and Parlon China

The magic of Haviland and Parlon lies in the classic craft of Limoges hard-paste porcelain, made from a blend of kaolin, feldspar, and quartz.

All production remains rooted in the famous region, and every piece proudly carries the IGP label, guaranteeing its authentic creation and hand-painted artistry.

A Glimpse into the Unique Materials and Techniques of the Manufactory

Over decades of craftsmanship, the company has developed a range of unique know-how and artistic techniques that set its creations apart from other porcelain makers.

• To create their exclusive porcelain patterns, they use 32-karat fine gold and platinum, applied in either a polished or matte finish. Sometimes gold and platinum are combined on a single piece, creating the effect of a rare, two-toned precious metal. For example, the Home Gold collection features this elegant pairing, resulting in a truly unique design.
• In some of the famous designs from the porcelain house Robert Haviland & C. Parlon, you’ll find a unique engraving technique where the pattern is etched over the glaze and then rubbed with gold, platinum, or colored enamel. This technique appears, for example, in the Versailles collection, inspired by the royal tableware of Louis XV.
• The manufactory has refined the decal technique to handle intricate designs, such as portraits or landscapes. These details are often finished by hand with fine brushwork or gilding, creating a distinctive presidential china style.
• Another fascinating technique is the combination of glossy glaze and matte elements to create a velvety texture and tactile detailing. This approach adds depth and contrast to the décor, as seen in the Syracuse Turquoise collection, where colorful elements are highlighted with gold.
• One of the brand’s unmistakable signature techniques is the use of droplet-shaped enamel dots that mimic pearls or beads. In the Sultane décor, for example, these minimalist elements are applied drop by drop, creating a raised texture that gives the impression of a delicate textile pattern.

The Art of Porcelain Decoration at Robert Haviland & C. Parlon

The brand’s artistic mastery shines through in its unique techniques, all rooted in the skilled handwork of talented artisans. They use special porcelain paints, mineral pigments, and signature gold accents that are an essential part of the royal dinnerware style by Robert Haviland and C. Parlon. Collections like Home Platinum and Fil d’Or are filled with the brand’s signature touches, giving the tableware a rich, noble look without any striking excess.

By the way, all paints are food-safe and highly durable, and the décor— even the finest gold patterns— is designed for practical use, staying passionate for decades.

Where This Porcelain Belongs

Remember, R. Haviland C. Parlon luxury tableware is made for truly special occasions. 

It’s not just expensive dinnerware—it’s a symbol of status that goes far beyond the traditional boundaries of formal events. Choose these collections for the parts of life where luxury and beauty are valued without compromise:

• Private homes where porcelain is cherished both as exclusive everyday tableware and as a refined element of interior décor.
• Table settings for haute cuisine, from private residences to Michelin-starred restaurants—anywhere that demands a rare blend of breathtaking beauty and confident practicality.
• Official and grand events—such as special receptions, diplomatic dinners, weddings, and milestone anniversaries—deserve porcelain of this level.
• In yacht and private jet interiors, ultra-luxury porcelain has become especially sought after, allowing the wealthy to feel their status not only on land, but also at sea and in the sky.
• For art de la table settings, anywhere a touch of French elegance is called for at the table or in the décor, R. Haviland & C. Parlon Limoges porcelain is the perfect choice.

Conclusion

When you choose French porcelain with a rich history rooted in the 19th century, wrapped in prestige and French charm, you’re choosing royal-level grace and timeless perfection. Every piece of Haviland & Parlon china helps you achieve the highest level of table setting and a feeling of perfect refinement both at the table and in the décor. 

Our specialists at MDMAISON offer expert support in selecting luxury home décor of any level, featuring only the most prestigious and exclusive brands. We invite you to connect with us and grow your décor business through our trade program.

Take advantage of our resources and direct shipments from the manufacturer to any part of the world, making it easy to achieve the results you want quickly and efficiently.

FAQ

What collections does Robert Haviland & C. Parlon offer?

The manufactory offers exquisite and luxurious collections of Limoges porcelain, featuring exclusive pigments along with gold and platinum accents.

How does Robert Haviland & C. Parlon porcelain stand out?

It’s a celebrated name in the world of art de la table, combining superb Limoges porcelain, exclusive luxurious décor, and a rich historical legacy.

Can Robert Haviland & C. Parlon pieces be customized?

The brand offers clients the option to order personalized décor, custom monograms, bespoke color schemes, and even the creation of exclusive collections.

How should Robert Haviland & C. Parlon dinnerware be cared for?

The porcelain should be hand-washed with gentle cleaners, but some collections without gold or with minimal decoration can be carefully cleaned in a dishwasher using a delicate cycle.