By Helaine Fendelman and Joe Rosson
From Tribune News Service
Dear Helaine and Joe:
I have inherited six covered bowls that are marked “HB” with “Quimper, France” below. What can you tell me about them and their value? Some pieces are in better condition than others because I was using them before I realized they may be more valuable than I thought.
Thank you,
D. H., Corus Christi, Texas
Dear D. H.:
Without covers these are called “bols a oreilles,” or bowls with ears. Americans tend to call them lug-handled soup bowls, but that is far less romantic-sounding.
They were intended to be used for serving hot cream soups, but we have seen it suggested they may have been designed for serving the famous “French onion soup.” However, the lid on these pieces makes this a bit impractical because the cheese that normally floats on top would often stick to the lid and made a mess….