A Royal Worcester Porcelain Scent Bottle

The Royal Worcester Porcelain Scent Bottle is a historical piece crafted to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee in 1887. This decorative bottle features a blush ivory base adorned with gilt accents, showcasing a delicate cameo of a youthful Queen Victoria on one side. The reverse side is embellished with intricate floral sprays. The bottle is topped with a silver plated coronet-shaped stopper, a nod to regal elegance. As a product of the Royal Worcester Porcelain Company, it reflects the craftsmanship and the artistic sensibilities of late 19th-century England.

Condition Report

The Royal Worcester Porcelain Scent Bottle is in good condition, with wear consistent with its age and use. The gilt and blush ivory surfaces show minor signs of fading, typical of porcelain items over a century old. Notably, the inscription of Queen Victoria and the date on the plaque has become blurred over time, which is expected given its historical context. The silver plated stopper retains much of its original shine, though minor tarnishing is present, consistent with its age. Overall, the bottle maintains its structural integrity and continues to reflect the artistry of its era.

Dimensions

Weight: 35gm, Length: 5.5cm, Width: 0.06cm, Height: 8cm.

A Perfume Vessel of Distinction

This scent bottle was originally intended as a vessel for perfume, a popular item in Victorian society for personal grooming. The compact design and ornate decoration made it a desirable accessory for ladies of the era, often carried in handbags or displayed on dressing tables. Its commemorative nature, celebrating Queen Victoria's 50 years on the throne, added a layer of significance and collectible interest among the contemporary audience, serving both practical and decorative purposes.

Victorian Commemorative Design

The Royal Worcester Porcelain Scent Bottle is a fine example of Victorian commemorative design. It reflects the period's interest in royal milestones and the public's desire to possess items reflecting national pride. The use of blush ivory and gilt was a popular stylistic choice of the era, indicating opulence and refinement. The cameo of Queen Victoria adds a personal touch, while the floral motifs align with the Victorian love for naturalistic decoration. This piece encapsulates the artistic trends and societal values of late 19th-century Britain.

Porcelain Crafting Techniques

Crafted by the esteemed Royal Worcester Porcelain Company, this scent bottle exemplifies the renowned porcelain techniques of the time. The production involved skilled artisans who meticulously shaped, fired, and glazed the porcelain to achieve its smooth finish. The application of blush ivory and gilt highlights required precision, showcasing the craftsmanship associated with high-quality porcelain items. The stopper's silver plating involved additional metalworking expertise, reflecting the multi-disciplinary skills present in Royal Worcester's creations.

Royal Worcester Porcelain Company

The Royal Worcester Porcelain Company, established in 1751, is one of the oldest and most prestigious porcelain manufacturers in the world. Known for its high-quality materials and innovative designs, the company played a significant role in the evolution of porcelain art. This scent bottle, produced during the company's peak, demonstrates the brand's commitment to excellence and its ability to capture the zeitgeist through commemorative pieces. Royal Worcester's creations are highly sought after by collectors for their historical significance and superb craftsmanship.

Collecting Victorian Commemoratives

Collecting Victorian commemorative items, such as this Royal Worcester Scent Bottle, is a pursuit that attracts enthusiasts of historical artefacts and royal memorabilia. These pieces offer insight into the cultural and social aspects of the Victorian era, with their designs reflecting important historical events and public sentiments. Collectors value such items for their rarity and the craftsmanship they represent. The Royal Worcester Scent Bottle is particularly appealing due to its association with Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, a landmark event in British history, making it a prized addition to any collection of Victorian artefacts.