Two Danish porcelain ‘Flora Danica’ ice cream domes by Royal Copenhagen

18075m: Two Danish porcelain ‘Flora Danica’ ice cream domes by Royal Copenhagen
Danish, 20th Century
Height 27cm, diameter 31cm

These two refined porcelain ice cream domes with their matching stands were crafted by Royal Copenhagen during the twentieth century, forming part of the prestigious Flora Danica service—widely regarded as one of the most celebrated designs in European porcelain. The service traces its origins to the late 1700s, when it was commissioned by King Christian VII of Denmark. Its decoration draws inspiration from the monumental Flora Danica; a comprehensive botanical publication admired for its scientific precision as well as its artistic beauty.

Designed to enhance the theatre of dessert service, these domed covers embody the manufactory’s long-standing dedication to producing porcelain of the highest calibre—pieces suited equally to royal tables and distinguished domestic settings. Each dome is expertly shaped and adorned with an intricately pierced lattice border, entwined with delicate vine and floral ornament, and surmounted by a finely modelled tulip finial rendered with naturalistic detail. Inside, meticulously hand-painted botanical studies are presented with their Latin identifications, demonstrating the exacting standards and painterly skill associated with Royal Copenhagen.

The impressed numerals “20” and “3538” correspond to the factory’s form and model references, while the handwritten decorator’s mark signifies the individual artist responsible for the painting. The traditional factory stamp—a crown above three blue wavy lines—serves as the enduring emblem of Royal Copenhagen, with discreet additional marks indicating the year of manufacture.

Uniting historical importance with exceptional craftsmanship and graceful design, these pieces would make a distinguished addition to a serious porcelain collection or an elegant dining arrangement.

Another example of this model sold at Christie’s, High Style in Highland Park: The Collection of Mr. & Mrs. Edwin L. Cox, Lot 9 on 19 November 2021 for $125,000.

 $ 112,500