Description
Royal Crown Derby Old Imari 1128 Table Lighter with Ronson Insert English Bone China
This vintage Royal Crown Derby table lighter combines richly gilded English bone china with a Ronson lighter mechanism, bringing together two names long associated with craftsmanship and luxury design. Decorated in the celebrated Old Imari 1128 pattern, the piece features deep cobalt blue grounds, iron red floral decoration, and extensive 22-karat gold ornamentation across a compact sculptural form.
The lighter has a substantial visual presence despite its modest size. Heavy gilding, intricate latticework, stylized floral reserves, and layered ornamental borders give the piece the same dramatic character that made Old Imari one of Royal Crown Derby’s most recognizable patterns. The Ronson insert fits securely into the porcelain base and is marked “Made in England.”
Purchased in London during the 1970s and preserved within the same family collection since then, the piece remains an elegant example of mid-century luxury decorative accessories.
Royal Crown Derby Old Imari 1128
Old Imari 1128 stands among the most iconic patterns ever produced by Royal Crown Derby. First introduced during the late 19th century, the pattern drew inspiration from the richly decorated Japanese Imari porcelains that had fascinated European collectors and aristocratic households for generations.
Royal Crown Derby transformed those Japanese influences into a distinctly English interpretation built around dense cobalt blue grounds, iron red floral elements, and lavish hand-applied gilding. Over time, pattern 1128 became one of the defining expressions of English Imari decoration and remains closely associated with the factory today.
Unlike simpler tableware patterns, Old Imari creates visual richness through layered ornamentation and strong contrast. The heavy use of gold reflects light beautifully and gives the porcelain a warmth and depth that photographs rarely capture fully.
Ronson and Mid-Century Luxury Accessories
During the mid-20th century, luxury smoking accessories became an important part of interior decoration and desk design. Companies such as Ronson developed refined lighter mechanisms that were often paired with fine materials including silver, crystal, leather, and porcelain.
This example combines a Royal Crown Derby porcelain body with a Ronson insert manufactured in England, creating an object that crosses naturally between porcelain collecting, tobacciana, and decorative design. Even when not in use, the lighter functions beautifully as a display object because of its architectural form and richly decorated surface.
The removable insert includes the flame adjustment wheel and striker mechanism. The button clicks properly when engaged, though the lighter has not been refilled or flame tested.
Condition
Very good vintage condition overall. The porcelain body shows no observed chips, cracks, or restoration. The gilding remains exceptionally strong with very minimal visible wear. The Ronson insert fits properly within the base and retains its original “Made in England” marking. The lighter has not been tested with fuel and is being sold as a collectible vintage accessory and decorative object.
