Lithographed tin dish, Rouchier biscuit factory

The Rouchier-Bazel biscuit factory (sometimes spelled Rouchier-Basel) was a biscuit manufacturer in Angoulême, in the Charente region, active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, during the Belle Époque.

It no longer exists today. It is primarily known for its lithographed tins and labels, which are highly sought after by collectors. The object in your photo is a fine example: a promotional metal sign decorated with an elegant woman in a striped dress, a feathered hat, and puffed sleeves (1890s fashion), framed by the coat of arms of Angoulême and the city's motto, Fortitudo mea civium fides.

What is known about the company

• Products: biscuits, "croquettes," and petit fours, sold in illustrated tins (often featuring scenes of children or elegant ladies).
• Period: the preserved labels and tins date mainly from the 1900-1920 period.
• Location: Angoulême. A condominium still bears the name "Rouchier Basel" at 20 Rue du Minage, which suggests that the factory or the company's premises were located in this district.

Like many small provincial biscuit factories of that era, Rouchier-Bazel disappeared in the face of industrial consolidation (LU, BN, etc.). It did not leave a significant written record in easily accessible archives, unlike the Lolmède Biscuit Factory, founded in Angoulême in 1889 and still in operation (macarons, madeleines).