Description
Royal Crown Derby Traditional Imari 2451 Footed Sweet Dish in Duchess Form c.1966
Royal Crown Derby Traditional Imari 2451 footed sweet dish in the elegant Duchess form, produced in England and dating to approximately 1966 based on the XXIX date cipher to the underside. Though modest in scale, this is a richly decorated example of one of Royal Crown Derby’s most celebrated and enduring patterns, combining deep cobalt blue, iron red, white enamel work, and extensive gilding on fine English bone china.
About the Form and Decoration
The dish features an ornate oval form with pierced gilt handles and a raised footed base, giving it a refined sculptural presence beyond that of a simple serving dish. The intricate Traditional Imari decoration radiates outward from the center in segmented geometric panels filled with stylized flowers, scrolling foliage, lattice motifs, and gilt ornament.
The density and balance of the composition are characteristic of the Traditional Imari pattern and distinguish it from the more open designs associated with Old Imari wares. Rich cobalt blue panels contrast against iron red floral decoration and brilliant gilding, creating the luxurious visual effect for which Royal Crown Derby became internationally admired.
Despite its smaller scale, the dish displays the precision and decorative richness normally associated with much larger cabinet pieces.
Royal Crown Derby and the Imari Tradition
Royal Crown Derby has long been regarded as one of England’s premier porcelain manufacturers, with origins dating back to the eighteenth century. The company became especially celebrated for its mastery of richly gilded Imari-inspired patterns, drawing influence from Japanese export porcelains that entered Europe through the port of Imari during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.
Over time, Derby developed its own distinctly English interpretation of the style, combining Japanese inspiration with Victorian elegance, elaborate gilding, and exceptionally fine bone china production. Traditional Imari 2451 remains one of the company’s most recognizable and enduring patterns and continues to be highly sought after by collectors worldwide.
The underside retains the Royal Crown Derby backstamp reading “Derby China – Royal Crown Derby – English Bone China” together with the Roman numeral date cipher XXIX, corresponding to approximately 1966 production.
Condition
Very good vintage condition with no visible chips, cracks, or repairs observed. The gilding remains bright and well preserved with only light wear consistent with careful cabinet use and age.
