The History of Royal Copenhagen
A Legacy of Porcelain Craftsmanship

The History of Royal Copenhagen

Welcome to the fascinating journey through the history of Royal Copenhagen, an iconic name in the world of porcelain. From its inception in 1775 under royal patronage to today, Royal Copenhagen has played a pivotal role in Danish culture, craftsmanship, and design. Join us as we explore this illustrious timeline of artistry and innovation.

Timeline of Royal Copenhagen

1775: The Foundation

The journey of Royal Copenhagen began with the establishment of “The Danish Porcelain Factory” at St. Kjøbmagergade 50 in Copenhagen. In the 17th century, European artisans had already been captivated by the exquisite blue and white porcelain from China during the Ming and Qing dynasties, inspiring them to replicate this coveted art form.

The factory received royal patronage from Queen Dowager Juliane Marie, Crown Prince Frederik, and King Christian VII, which helped solidify its status. Founded in 1775 by chemist Frantz Heinrich Müller, the manufactory operated from a converted post office and was granted a 50-year monopoly on porcelain production in Denmark. Although royal support was not formalized at first, the first pieces created included elegant dining services for the Danish royal family.

The factory adopted its iconic trademark of three wavy lines, symbolizing Denmark’s waterways—the Great Belt, the Little Belt, and Øresund. Among its initial offerings was the renowned Blue Fluted dinnerware, with pieces marked as no. 1.

Map of Denmark & its waterways—the Great Belt, the Little Belt, and Øresund

Royal Porcelain manufactory on Købmagergade in Copenhagen (19th century)

Blue Fluted Pattern marked no 1 with the three wavy lines.

1779: A Royal Restructuring

Facing financial difficulties, King Christian VII assumed financial responsibility for the factory. It officially became known as The Royal Danish Porcelain Factory, a name reflecting its royal connections.

1790: The Birth of Flora Danica

Royal Copenhagen produced the Flora Danica collection, commissioned as a gift for Empress Catherine II of Russia. Named after a botanical encyclopaedia, this collection remains one of the finest examples of porcelain artistry, still made by hand.

1868: Privatization and New Beginnings

The Royal Porcelain Factory was privatized, marking a significant transformation in the production process. For the first time, a female porcelain painter was employed, making the craft of hand-painting synonymous with women’s work.

1885: A New Artistic Direction

Architect Arnold Krog took the helm as artistic director. He revitalized Royal Copenhagen by enhancing the technique of painting under the glaze, allowing for lifelike representations on porcelain. Krog placed a renewed emphasis on Pattern No. 1, Blue Fluted, making it globally recognized.

1889: International Recognition

Royal Copenhagen gained international acclaim when Krog’s underglaze won the Grand Prix at the World Fair in Paris. This prestigious event, known as the Exposition Universelle, showcased innovative art and technology from around the world, attracting millions of visitors. The fair celebrated the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution and was a symbol of progress and cultural exchange. It featured stunning pavilions, including the iconic Eiffel Tower, which served as a centerpiece of the event.

Winning the Grand Prix at such a grandiose affair not only solidified Royal Copenhagen’s reputation for quality craftsmanship but also enhanced its visibility on a global scale. The accolade paved the way for the expansion of the brand, with openings in Paris, New York, and London. Furthermore, the recognition garnered at the fair allowed Royal Copenhagen to forge important connections with influential artists and designers, fostering collaborations that would further elevate the brand’s status in the realm of fine porcelain. The success at the World Fair marked a significant turning point, enabling Royal Copenhagen to establish itself as a leader in decorative arts and set the stage for ongoing innovation and excellence in craftsmanship.

Central Dome Perspective

Blueprint of the 1889 Exposition Universelle

Postcard depicting trams halting at the Galerie des Machines, located on the fringe of the exposition.

1911: Flagship Store Opening

The flagship store moved to Amagertorv 6 in the heart of Copenhagen, situated in a stunning renaissance building from 1616, which remains one of the city’s oldest structures.

1950-70: The Danish Modern Movement

During this period, Royal Copenhagen saw collaborations with renowned artists like Thorkild Olsen and Erik Magnussen. The designs transitioned toward a modern, simple, yet romantic style, channeling the essence of the Danish Modern movement.

Today: A Blend of Heritage and Modernity

Royal Copenhagen continues to push the boundaries of porcelain design while preserving its rich heritage. Collaborations with contemporary designers such as Louise Campbell and GamFratesi infuse new patterns and colors, ensuring that the essence of Royal Copenhagen remains vibrant and relevant, anchored in over 200 years of history.

The Royal Connection

Founded under the guidance of Queen Dowager Juliane Marie, Royal Copenhagen was not merely a business venture but a manifestation of her vision to promote Danish craftsmanship and local manufacturing. Her legacy as a forward-thinking monarch has forever influenced the relationship between royalty and fine porcelain, as she instilled a commitment to excellence and innovation within the factory.

Conclusion

From its humble beginnings to international acclaim, Royal Copenhagen’s legacy is a testament to art, culture, and craftsmanship. Each piece tells a story of dedication, tradition, and evolution, making it more than just porcelain—it is a piece of history. Whether you are a collector or admirer, Royal Copenhagen remains a benchmark of quality and artistry in the world of fine porcelain.

Explore the latest collections and experience the remarkable craftsmanship that has stood the test of time at Royal Copenhagen today.

Royal Copenhagen

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