Royal Copenhagen, a company founded in 1775 under the protection of the Danish royal family, is one of the world's oldest porcelain manufacturers and has a rich history. For nearly three centuries, it has become synonymous with exquisite craftsmanship and timeless design, with several patterns becoming iconic in the fine porcelain world. In this post, we will explore some of the most beloved and enduring Royal Copenhagen china patterns, distinctive features, and tips for beginning a Royal Copenhagen collection of your own.
Coveted Royal Copenhagen Patterns
Blue Fluted Plain
The Blue Fluted Plain pattern is not only Royal Copenhagen's oldest but also among the first patterns ever created in the Royal Copenhagen porcelain factory. Introduced the same year as the company's founding, the Blue Fluted Plain pattern is characterized by its graceful and delicate blue floral motifs meticulously hand-painted onto pristine white porcelain. This pattern is a quintessential example of the classic Danish aesthetic—understated yet elegant. Its timeless design has been a favorite for generations, making it a staple in many collections.
Flora Danica
Considered one of the most prestigious porcelain collections in the world, Flora Danica is the epitome of luxury and meticulous craftsmanship. Initially commissioned in the late 18th century as a gift for Russian Empress Catherine the Great, this series features hand-painted botanical illustrations based on the plates of the "Flora Danica" encyclopedia—a comprehensive atlas of botany. Each piece is a masterpiece, with gold detailing and the plant's name painted in Latin. The Flora Danica continues to be highly coveted by collectors and connoisseurs for its historical significance and breathtaking beauty.
Blue Fluted Full Lace
Expanding upon the simplicity of the Blue Fluted Plain, the Blue Fluted Full Lace pattern introduces an additional layer of intricacy with its exquisite lace borders and more elaborate floral designs. Introduced in 1888, the Blue Fluted Full Lace showcases Royal Copenhagen's artisans' impressive precision and skill. The lace detailing, which appears almost as if carved out of the porcelain itself, is a testament to the high level of craftsmanship that Royal Copenhagen is known for.
Blue Fluted Half Lace
Arnold Krog designed the Blue Fluted Half Lace in the late 19th century to bridge the gap between the Plain and Full Lace patterns. This pattern retains its siblings' beloved blue floral motifs while introducing a less ornate lace design than the Full Lace. The Half Lace pattern offers a balance of sophistication and practicality, making it suitable for both formal occasions and everyday use.
White Fluted
Introduced in 1775 alongside the Blue Fluted patterns, the White Fluted design offers a pure, undecorated surface that emphasizes the quality and shape of the porcelain itself. This pattern showcases the sculptural qualities of the items, with their tactile, ribbed surfaces making a subtle statement of elegance and simplicity. It's perfect for those who appreciate a minimalist aesthetic while still wanting a touch of sophistication in their tableware.
Star Fluted Christmas
The Star Fluted Christmas pattern was introduced in 2006 to celebrate the festive spirit. It quickly became a beloved holiday fine china pattern, featuring sprigs of Christmas greenery and ribbons, with stars sprinkled over a creamy background. This pattern captures the essence of a Scandinavian Christmas, bringing warmth and joy to holiday tables. It's a beautiful example of how Royal Copenhagen adapts its traditional craftsmanship to fit seasonal themes.
Princess
The Princess pattern is a charming and delicate series introduced in the 1970s. It is often seen as a variant of the Blue Fluted Half Lace, featuring the same intricate lace borders but with a blue snail shell on each piece, adding an extra layer of detail and texture. The Princess pattern exudes a gentle, almost fairy-tale quality, making it particularly appealing for occasions that call for romance and whimsy.
Musselmalet Gerippt (Blue Fluted Mega)
A contemporary reinterpretation of the classic Blue Fluted pattern, the Blue Fluted Mega was designed by young designer Karen Kjældgård-Larsen in 2000. It features oversized elements of the original pattern, blown up to a bold, modern scale that makes a striking visual statement. This pattern is a testament to Royal Copenhagen's ability to innovate and adapt its heritage designs to suit modern tastes and lifestyles.
Elements
In a nod to modern design sensibilities, the Elements pattern, introduced in the 21st century, reinterprets traditional motifs with a contemporary twist. Designed by Louise Campbell, Elements retains the classic blue-and-white palette but introduces new forms and shapes that break away from the conventional. This pattern is a favorite among those who appreciate the heritage of Royal Copenhagen but desire a more modern aesthetic in their porcelain collections.
Bing & Grøndahl Christmas Plates
Though technically not a pattern but a series, the Bing & Grøndahl Christmas plates deserve mention. Started in 1895, these collectible plates depict traditional Danish winter scenes and have a devout following. Each year, a new plate is released, making them highly collectible. They represent a cherished tradition for many families in Denmark and internationally.
Starting Your Royal Copenhagen Collection
Royal Copenhagen offers a vast range of patterns and items, so new collectors should consider focusing their collection to make it manageable and meaningful. Some may collect items from a specific pattern, such as Flora Danica, while others might focus on a particular type of item, like plates or figurines. Selecting a focus can also make it easier to become knowledgeable and recognized in specific collecting circles. In addition to having a focus when starting a collection, a few other things to know include:
Know the Marks
Understanding Royal Copenhagen's hallmarking system is crucial for any collector. The company has used a variety of marks over the years, including the famous three wavy lines symbolizing Denmark's three major waterways. Additionally, each piece includes a mark that indicates the year of production. Learning these marks can help you authenticate pieces and understand their historical context.
Condition Matters
The value of a porcelain piece is heavily influenced by its condition. Items without chips, cracks, or significant wear are more desirable. When evaluating a piece, check for any restoration work, which can affect value, especially if done poorly.
Rarity and Desirability
Limited edition pieces or those that were produced for a short time are typically more valuable. Additionally, older pieces, particularly those that marked a significant period in Royal
Copenhagen's history makes it more sought after. Understanding market trends can also help identify pieces that might increase in value over time.
Provenance and Historical Significance
Pieces with a well-documented history or those that were part of notable collections can command higher prices. Collectors prize items made for royal use or significant events.
Final Thoughts on Royal Copenhagen China Patterns
Collecting Royal Copenhagen porcelain can be much more than just acquiring beautiful objects; it can also be a journey through Denmark's rich cultural and artistic history. Whether you're drawn to the meticulous craftsmanship, the historical lore, or the sheer beauty of the designs, building a collection of Royal Copenhagen can offer years of enjoyment and discovery.
Royal Copenhagen China Patterns at Around the Block
Whether you're a collector or someone looking to elevate your dining game, Around the Block consignment has a china brand with your name on it. We offer a huge selection of preowned casual and formal fine china dinnerware sets to meet anyone’s budget or needs from all the top brands, including Royal Copenhagen, Royal Doulton, Wedgewood, Royal Crown Derby, and more. Peruse our selection of tableware online or visit our showroom to see all Around the Block consignment.
