A number of pieces of Sèvres porcelain were ‘improved’ or redecorated during the last decade of the eighteenth century and the early years of the nineteenth century.

The trade in Sèvres rejects may owe much to the policy adopted by the manufactory in both the eighteenth and the nineteenth centuries in relation to the disposal of surplus or defective stock. Dealers, who traded in both genuine and later-decorated pieces, made purchases directly from the Sèvres manufactory. Through their own means the pieces were ‘improved’ and resold to unsuspecting customers. Useful wares, such as cups and sugar bowls, were transformed into ornamental vases by the addition of gilt bronze mounts and table wares were repainted and gilded.

One factor common to all redecorated or later-decorated pieces in the Royal Collection is that they are French, rather than British-made imitation eighteenth-century Sèvres, such as was being produced at the porcelain manufactories of Nantgarw and Swansea up to 1822, and at Madeley from 1828 to 1840.