The Violets Quintet by ROYAL DOULTON 🪻
🪻 Imagine a lush English garden just after a spring rain—that is the essence of this set. Each piece is crafted from fine bone china, so thin and elegant it feels like it might float away if you don't weigh it down with a nice Earl Grey.
🪻 The pattern features a parade of sweet purple violets with emerald-green leaves. They aren't just thrown on; they dance around the edges in a scalloped, rhythmic border.
🪻 The square tea plate is a classic nod to the Art Deco era, proving that it’s hip to be square.
🪻The shell-shaped dish (the "cabbage leaf" or "sweetmeat" dish) is the true whimsical star—it looks like something a mermaid might use to serve sea-salted chocolates.
🪻The teacup and saucers round out the family, featuring that characteristic green-lined rim that keeps the purple from getting too lonely.
🪻 The 1930s Chic 🪻
This set hails from the 1930s, a time when "Series Ware" and floral patterns were the height of fashion. Violets, in particular, were the Victorian and Edwardian symbols of modesty and faithfulness, and by the 30s, they were the ultimate "shabby chic" vintage aesthetic.
🪻 The Royal Stamp 🪻
By the time this set was made, the company had already earned its Royal title (granted by King Edward VII in 1901). If you peek at the bottom, you'll see the famous Lion and Crown backstamp, which is the porcelain equivalent of a knightly seal of approval.
🪻 A Survivor 🪻
Many of these sets were broken during the hustle and bustle of the mid-century or lost to the "great cupboard purges" of the 80s. Finding a 5-piece configuration with such crisp color is like finding a four-leaf clover in a field of... well, violets!
All items are in vintage and antique preloved condition. Some minor surface scratches may be present. I do my best to note and photograph any wear. Please contact me with any further questions :)
Please Note: There could be small imperfections, including stray decorator marks, tiny areas of missing glaze, little rough spots, etc. This is not damage as production techniques were not quite as professional as they are today and are considered as part of their charm.