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:
• Eight (8) Rimmed Soup Bowls - 8 1/2" diameter, 1 3/8" height (21.6cm diameter, 3.5cm height)

Condition: Excellent—no chips, cracks, or repairs across all eight pieces. Cobalt blue, iron red, and 22k gilt decoration intact with no wear on rims or center patterns.

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: Complete set of eight rimmed soup bowls from the manufactory's most celebrated pattern

An ideal addition for collectors seeking authentic English bone china rather than contemporary imitations, this soup bowl 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 first course soup service at holiday dinners
• Thanksgiving and Christmas entertaining for eight
• Easter brunch and spring luncheon first courses
• 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 and serving pieces
• Replacement pieces for inherited Old Imari services
• Display in a china cabinet as a collector's conversation piece
• Styled tablescapes for editorial shoots and event design

Looks beautiful in:
• Formal dining rooms set for first course service
• Glass-front china cabinets alongside other Royal Crown Derby patterns
• Traditional English kitchens on open display shelving
• Maximalist and Grandmillennial dining rooms
• Butler's pantries as display pieces between formal dinners
• Sideboards styled for holiday table presentations

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

Each rimmed soup bowl showcases 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. The 8 1/2-inch rimmed form provides elegant presentation for both clear broths and cream soups, the wide rim giving ample display to the full Imari border. A complete set of eight is rare to find in excellent condition, offering a full formal table service straight out of the box.

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
• Store with felt or tissue paper between each bowl to protect surfaces

Shipping:
• Museum-quality packaging with full insurance coverage
• Each bowl individually wrapped in acid-free tissue and bubble wrap
• All eight pieces stacked with cushioning between each layer
• Double-boxed with cushioning material for maximum protection
• Expedited shipping available upon request
• International buyers responsible for customs duties and import taxes