Two Danish Royal Copenhagen ‘Flora Danica’ porcelain dishes with handles

Two Danish Royal Copenhagen ‘Flora Danica’ porcelain dishes with handles
Danish, 20th Century
Height 16cm, width 40cm, depth 24cm
 
These refined dishes are part of the celebrated Flora Danica porcelain collection, produced by Denmark’s Royal Copenhagen manufactory in the 20th century. The Flora Danica service itself originated in the late 18th century, conceived not only as a showcase of extraordinary craftsmanship but also as a diplomatic gesture. In 1790, King Christian VII commissioned the set - based on the botanical illustrations first published in 1752 - to reconcile relations with Russia following a period of conflict. Although the service was completed in 1802, Empress Catherine II passed away in 1796 before it could be presented.
 
The dishes display beautifully hand-painted botanical designs on a pristine white porcelain surface. Gilded rectangular panels frame delicate floral motifs, while the rims feature partially raised borders echoed on the covers, each adorned with vivid, lifelike plant illustrations. The three-dimensional handles, sculpted to resemble flowering branches, further enhance the naturalistic charm and demonstrate the remarkable skill involved in their creation.
 
Each piece is equipped with a turned ebonised wood handle, allowing the dish to be lifted safely when hot, an unusual feature in the Flora Danica service that makes these examples particularly sought after.
 
On the underside of the lids, the Royal Copenhagen wave mark, maker’s stamp, and model numbers are clearly visible, while the center bears the handwritten Latin names of the plants depicted: Convolvulus sepium L. B. coloratus Lge (Larger Bindweed) and Galeopsis galeobdolon L. (Golden Deadnettle).
 
With their superb craftsmanship, fascinating history, and striking presence, these two dishes are a distinguished and elegant addition to any dining collection.
 
Artist/Maker: Royal Copenhagen (Danish, founded 1775)