Antique French Pear Crate Label, 19th century

This antique late 19th century label is for the pear variety Doyenne du Comice, which might be translated as “Best in Show”. Created sometime in the 1840s it rapidly became one of the most acclaimed varieties in the world. 

To quote an article from the LA Times, it was referred to as “the king of pears”. Here below a brief excerpt:

In his 1934 book “Anatomy of Dessert,” British writer Edward Bunyard is palpably overcome by the Comice’s grandeur. “In the long history of the pear the year of 1849 stands alone in importance. The historian will be reminded of the annexation of the Punjab, the accession of Francis Joseph, while in that year America hailed her 12th President in the person of Zachary Taylor.

“But what are such things to us? . . . Happy those who were present when Doyenne du Comice first gave up its luscious juice to man. Whom could they envy at that moment? Certainly not Zachary Taylor.”

Celebrate this delicious fruit with this label, which would lend a perfect rustic touch to some kitchen ‘a la Provencale’.

Price marked at AUD$80.

Measurements: 8cm across, 6.5 cm high.

Condition: Very good antique condition, with no cracks or splits to note. There is a lovely patina which we have left up to the choice of the new owner.