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FRENCH PILLIVUYT PORCELAIN RALSTON SAN FRANCISCO

Currency:USD Category:Pottery & Glass Start Price:10.00 USD Estimated At:350.00 - 750.00 USD
FRENCH PILLIVUYT PORCELAIN RALSTON SAN FRANCISCO
HISTORICAL CHINA WARE: A rare assorted lot of six dinner plates 9'', eight luncheon or salad plates 8'', and one pickle or relish dish 10 ¬'', each plate is white in color with a one inch floral rose rim trim outlined in undulating gold and black trim. The plates were ordered from the firm of Charles Pillivuyt, a French porcelain firm founded in 1818, the mark dating from 1854. The firm is still in business. Each plate has in the center an elaborate scroll work containing the initials ''R'' standing for William Chapman Ralston (1826 - 1875), the dynamic driving force of early San Francisco determined to make San Francisco one of the worlds cultural and financial capitals. He was at his peak of his influence in 1860-1870's, when in 1864 he created the Bank of California, controller for many years of the Comstock Lode, entrepreneur extraordinaire, and few other chosen words. He died in 1875 from one of several reasons while swimming in San Francisco bay. He has just lost control of his beloved bank. An estimated 50,000 people attended his funeral. This rare reminder was part of a lavish set put up for auction by one of his direct decedents. These are both historical and represent San Francisco's standard for the rich during the cities founding days. Note: Some plates show wear of the ''R'', and outer rim areas, flea chip on one or two base rims of the plates but over all condition is very good..