Shallow Porcelain Absinthe Saucer, 1f85, Black Rim

Absinthe bistro saucers served a duel purpose in the pre-ban absinthe era. Besides serving as a coaster, they also functioned to indicate the price of absinthe being served. The price printed onto the bottom or side of the saucer corresponded with a color painted on the outside rim. This rim color acted as a code which was used to tell the waiter how much to charge the customer by reading the different saucer colors when stacked. For instance, if three black rimmed saucers (as shown above) were stacked, the waiter would know to charge the customer 1.05 French francs (or 105 French centimes, since 100 centimes equal 1 franc). When paying the bill, the money was generally left inside the coaster. This saucer features a yellow hand-painted rim with black and silver accented pinwheel lines. The franc mark is printed into the side of the saucer. Also great for entertaining. Use as a serving dish for nuts, snacks, hors-oeuvres, etc.

Perfect for everyday coasters !

Exact reproductions.

High quality porcelain.

Hand painted rim and pinwheels.

Paint and text are fired into the saucer, so the colors will not fade.

Saucer measures approximately 4.75" in diameter by .75" tall.

Height inside saucer measures .5".

Will accommodate a 3.3" diameter glass base and smaller.

Imported.

Made by Bonnecaze.

Saucer ships 1 business day after payment is made.

Ships via the USPS or FedEx

We happily ship WORLDWIDE !!!