Royal Albert China
Romantic, floral, and vibrant—these are just a few of the words often used to describe this timeless brand. The origins of Royal Albert China span over a century. Although the Royal Albert name was officially introduced in 1904, its roots stretch back to 1896, when the Albert Works was established. This factory was built to commemorate the birth of Prince Albert in 1895, named after his renowned great-grandfather and Queen Victoria's consort.
Owned by Thomas Wild and his sons, the Albert Works focused on producing affordable yet elegant tea, breakfast, and dessert ware. Their intricate floral designs quickly became a defining characteristic of the brand.
By 1904, the company’s growing reputation in the china industry, both domestically and internationally, earned it the prestigious Royal Warrant. Building on these close ties to the Royal Household, Thomas Wild adopted the name Royal Albert that has remained beloved ever since.
Old Country Roses: The World’s Best-Selling China Pattern
In 1962, Royal Albert designer Harold Holdcroft, drawing inspiration from the quintessential British garden, introduced the iconic Old Country Roses pattern. Instantly recognizable to both devoted collectors and casual admirers worldwide, the design features vibrant clusters of roses in rich reds, vivid pinks, and soft yellows. These are beautifully complemented by elegant golden rims and intricate accents, creating a timeless and exquisite aesthetic.
The Modern Day
In 2006, Royal Albert celebrated its centenary with a brand-new collection, showcasing the patterns that had established the company as one of the industry’s most iconic brands.
Today, Royal Albert is part of the Fiskars Group, which also encompasses other iconic brands like Royal Doulton and Wedgwood. Despite this change in ownership, the brand continues to craft exquisite bone china tableware and giftware, adorned with delicate floral patterns that captivate collectors of all ages. This legacy is perhaps best exemplified in the collaboration with supermodel Miranda Kerr, whose designs blend a heartfelt admiration for her grandmother’s vintage Royal Albert tea sets with a refined appreciation for contemporary, understated elegance.
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