Royal Copenhagen

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Royal Copenhagen?

Royal Copenhagen was established in 1775 under the direct patronage of the Danish royal court, making it one of the oldest and most storied porcelain houses in the world.

What is the history behind the Royal Copenhagen brand?

For nearly two and a half centuries, the manufactory has been synonymous with hand-painted underglaze-blue decoration, exquisite craftsmanship, and a distinctly Nordic sense of beauty that is at once restrained and deeply expressive. Available through Kneen & Co, Royal Copenhagen represents an unbroken lineage of royal patronage and porcelain mastery.

What is the Flora Danica collection?

Flora Danica was created in 1790 as a diplomatic gift intended for Empress Catherine the Great of Russia, and instead became the crown jewel of Royal Copenhagen’s permanent heritage.

Why is the Flora Danica collection considered among the world's most extraordinary porcelain?

Flora Danica is considered among the world’s most extraordinary porcelain because each piece is hand-painted by a master artisan from the historic Flora Danica botanical encyclopaedia, finished with 24-carat gold, and passes through more than twenty pairs of skilled hands before completion.

How is Flora Danica porcelain produced?

Every Flora Danica piece is individually hand-painted in underglaze blue and overglaze polychrome enamels directly onto fine porcelain, with 24-carat gold detailing applied by hand. Each botanical illustration is faithfully rendered by an individual artisan, making every object a singular work of art.

What makes Flora Danica porcelain so rare?

Flora Danica porcelain is so rare because no two pieces are ever identical, and a single piece can take up to a year to produce. With a lead time of 36 or more weeks, it is a commission of the highest order and among the most meaningful heirloom investments available in the world of luxury porcelain.

What other collections does Royal Copenhagen offer?

Royal Copenhagen’s portfolio extends well beyond Flora Danica to include a range of beloved patterns: Blue Fluted Mega, which reimagines the classic fluted motif in a bold, graphic format; White Fluted Half Lace; and the Princess collection, which offers soft, contemporary elegance.

Is Royal Copenhagen porcelain suitable as a heirloom gift?

Few gifts carry the weight of history, artistry, and lasting beauty that Royal Copenhagen does, making it supremely suitable as an heirloom gift. A piece from the collection transcends the occasion, becoming a treasured object passed through generations.

How should Royal Copenhagen porcelain be cared for?

Hand washing is strongly recommended for all Royal Copenhagen pieces to preserve the integrity of the hand-painted decoration and 24-carat gold detailing. The delicacy of these works of art warrants the same gentle handling one would extend to any precious object.