Royal Crown Derby's Old Imari pattern stands as the manufactory's most iconic design—first recorded in pattern book number 2 in 1882 and inspired by traditional Japanese Imari porcelain, establishing Royal Crown Derby's reputation for intricate hand-painting and elaborate gilding that continues in production today after more than 140 years.
This listing includes:
• One (1) Creamer - 3 1/2" height, 10 oz capacity (8.9cm height), oval form
• One (1) Covered Sugar Bowl with Lid - 3 1/2" height, 3 1/2" width (8.9cm height, 8.9cm width), oval form
Condition: Excellent—no chips, cracks, or repairs on either piece. Cobalt blue, iron red, and 22k gilt decoration intact with no wear on rims, handles, or finial.
Details:
• Collection: Royal Crown Derby | Design: "Old Imari" (Pattern #1128)
• Material: English bone china with hand-painted cobalt blue and iron red Imari motifs and 22k gold accents
• Production Period: Pattern introduced 1882, still in production (these pieces mid-to-late 20th century)
• Authentication: Royal Crown Derby backstamp with Old Imari pattern designation
• Rarity: Matching creamer and sugar set from the manufactory's most celebrated pattern
An ideal addition for collectors seeking authentic English bone china rather than contemporary imitations, this creamer and sugar set delivers Royal Crown Derby's documented heritage since 1750—the same intricate Imari-inspired craftsmanship favored by British royalty and featured regularly in Architectural Digest as a design editor favorite for its timeless opulence.
Perfect for:
• Formal tea and coffee service
• Holiday entertaining and Christmas table presentation
• Easter brunch and spring luncheon table settings
• Wedding registry completion or bridal shower gifts
• Mother's Day or housewarming gift for Anglophile collectors
• Generational heirloom pieces for building a complete formal service
• Pairing with matching Old Imari dinnerware, teapot, and serving pieces
• Replacement pieces for inherited Old Imari services
• Display in a china cabinet as a collector's matched pair
• Styled tablescapes for editorial shoots and event design
Looks beautiful in:
• Formal dining rooms as part of a tea or coffee service
• Glass-front china cabinets alongside other Royal Crown Derby pieces
• Traditional English kitchens on open display shelving
• Maximalist and Grandmillennial dining rooms
• Butler's pantries and bar carts for afternoon tea presentation
• Drawing rooms styled for formal entertaining
Complements Decor Styles:
• Old Money British and English Country House
• Grandmillennial and Traditional Maximalist
• Chinoiserie and Japandi-Inspired interiors
• Renaissance Revival and Neoclassical aesthetics
• Formal European dining room traditions
The creamer and covered sugar bowl showcase Old Imari's signature design—elaborate geometric patterns in rich cobalt blue and iron red layered with intricate floral motifs, all embellished with lavish 22k gold accents. The pattern draws inspiration from Japanese Imari porcelain produced during the Edo period and exported through the port of Imari to Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries, where it was prized by the aristocracy for its vibrant colors and meticulous detail. Both pieces feature matching oval forms with elegant gold handles that echo the gilding throughout. The generous 10-ounce creamer provides ample capacity for formal service, while the covered sugar bowl features a distinctive finial. The cobalt blue, iron red, and 22k gold palette coordinates beautifully with silver flatware, white linen, and crystal stemware for a cohesive formal table.
History of Pattern and Brand:
Royal Crown Derby's Old Imari pattern #1128 was first recorded in the manufactory's pattern book number 2 in 1882, inspired by the traditional Japanese Imari porcelain that had captivated European aristocracy for centuries. Royal Crown Derby, established in 1750, earned its royal warrant in 1775 when King George III granted permission to incorporate the crown into the backstamp, and again in 1890 when Queen Victoria appointed them "Manufacturers of Porcelain to Her Majesty." The Old Imari pattern became synonymous with Royal Crown Derby worldwide and remains in continuous production today—a testament to its enduring appeal across more than 140 years. The pattern's distinctive three-color scheme of cobalt blue, iron red, and 22k gold captures the essence of oriental art while incorporating Royal Crown Derby's unique English craftsmanship.
Care Instructions:
• Hand wash only with mild detergent and warm water
• Avoid abrasive sponges or scouring pads that may damage 22k gilt decoration
• Do not place in dishwasher or microwave
• Dry immediately with soft cloth to prevent water spots on gilt details
• Handle sugar bowl lid by the finial with care
• Store with felt or tissue paper between pieces to protect gilt surfaces
Shipping:
• Museum-quality packaging with full insurance coverage
• Creamer and sugar bowl each individually wrapped in acid-free tissue and bubble wrap
• Sugar bowl lid wrapped and packed separately within the same box to prevent movement
• Double-boxed with cushioning material for maximum protection
• Expedited shipping available upon request
• International buyers responsible for customs duties and import taxes
