Antique French Cocoa Tin – Cacao Lombart (Paris)
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Belle Époque Lithographed Advertising Tin | c.1900–1920
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A wonderfully timeworn early 20th-century French cocoa tin produced by the prestigious Parisian chocolate house Chocolat Lombart, founded in 1760.
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This tall rectangular tin once contained Cacao Lombart Soluble — an early form of instant drinking chocolate — and is a beautiful survivor from the Belle Époque / Edwardian era, when cocoa was marketed as both nourishing and fortifying.
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The front features a charming lithographed scene of two uniformed soldiers, arm in arm, one gesturing forward — imagery used by Lombart to suggest strength, vitality and morale. Beneath, the confident slogan reads:
“Lombart, c’est le meilleur”
(Lombart is the best)
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The reverse and sides retain original French text, including:
Maison fondée en 1760
75 Avenue de Choisy, Paris
Qualité Supérieure
Soluble
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The original friction-fit lid remains present and correctly fitted, with embossed lettering to the top.
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Condition
This tin shows heavy, honest age-related wear, with surface oxidation, spotting and patina throughout — entirely consistent with a utilitarian item over a century old. Importantly, the structure is solid, the lid fits well, and the key text and illustration remain legible.
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Rather than detracting, the wear gives this piece real character and authenticity, making it especially appealing to collectors of genuine antique advertising tins.
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Details
Origin: France
Date: c.1900–1920
Material: Lithographed tinplate
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Dimensions: approx. 13 cm x 6 cm x 7 cm
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Condition: Antique condition with age-related wear (see photographs)
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Why we love it
A beautifully worn piece of French chocolate history, perfect for:
Display in a kitchen or pantry
Café or shop décor
A collector of antique cocoa & chocolate ephemera
Lovers of authentic Belle Époque advertising
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No two tins age the same — and this one has aged perfectly.