Magnificently patinated ironstone French soupière or tureen and In the much rarer small one person size. It has a very dark and mottled patina and retains its original wonderful shine. This is one of most gorgeous pieces I've found, if you are a lover of patina!
 
Made by HB&C at Choisy le Roi, it has their stamp on the base which dates it back to 1878, and is also stamped "terre de fer" or ironstone in French.
 
It has the tradtional ornate handles and elegant foot,  is in great condition with a deap patina. It is the perfect small sized version of the family tureen we