Limoges porcelain decorative ashtray or trinket dish by Fathi Mahmoud
Estimated Value
$15-$50 USD
Small white glazed porcelain piece with a scalloped, four-lobed square form and raised rim. The underside bears a printed mark reading 'FM', 'Pâte et émail Limoges fondée en 1942', 'Sculpture', 'Fathi Mahmoud', and 'Made in Egypt'. The form and finish suggest a decorative ashtray, pin dish, or small trinket dish rather than a functional serving piece. The styling is simple and elegant, with a glossy white finish and molded contours.
Era
Late 20th century (likely 1970s-1990s)
Origin
Egypt, with Limoges-style French porcelain influence/branding
Material
Glazed porcelain (pâte et émail style)
Condition
Good overall; visible light surface wear and minor grime/discoloration around the recessed base edges. No obvious chips or cracks visible from this view, but underside wear suggests age/use.
Physical Details
Dimensions
Approximately 4.5 to 6 inches across; about 0.75 to 1 inch tall
Weight
Light
Authentication
Authenticity Score
Medium; the printed mark is clear and consistent with a factory-made porcelain item, but the image only shows the underside and not the full object, so exact identification as ashtray vs. dish is not fully certain.
Provenance
Likely produced by Fathi Mahmoud, an Egyptian maker using Limoges-inspired porcelain branding; probably sold as a decorative export or souvenir piece rather than a true antique Limoges item from France.
Historical Significance
Represents mid-to-late 20th century decorative porcelain production and the use of Limoges-style branding outside France. Items by Egyptian makers such as Fathi Mahmoud are collectible mainly for decorative appeal and maker interest rather than high antique value.