King Hussan II’s early years were shaped by his education in both Morocco and France, which influenced his vision for the country’s future. As Crown Prince, he played a crucial role in Morocco’s independence movement and later worked tirelessly to strengthen the nation’s international relations. His reign saw the implementation of numerous infrastructure projects, educational reforms, and the promotion of tourism, making Morocco a prominent destination on the global stage.

During his visit to Paris, Crown Prince Moulay Hassan took the opportunity to explore the city’s cultural sites. There’s a terrific press photograph of him at the Paris Motor Show of 1959, chosing himself a luxury car or two, no doubt. 

He also visited the many fabulous shopping opportunities that only Paris offers…. 

During a visit to one esteemed Parisian shop, Atelier Camille Le Tallec,  Crown Prince Moulay Hassan  was captivated by the exquisite porcelain on display. One of the few surviving decorating workshops in Paris, Atelier Camille Le Tallec had been customising porcelain services with both patterns and monograms since the 1930’s (and still does!). The Prince put in an order for a service of his own with his initials, ‘HM’ in the center of each piece. He chose a pattern with an oak-branch border within gilt & blue wreath borders, a design from the 18th century products of the Sèvres factory. Well educated, he would have understood the importance of Sèvres: it was the personal factory of the great Kings of France, and therefore the pinnacle of taste.

Moorabool Auctions is pleased to be offering a plate from this service, which while not of great antiquity, offers a fascinating glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of Moroccan royalty.