Royal Albert 100 Years of Royal Albert 3-Piece Set, 1950 �Festival�
As it embarks on a new century of fine china design, Royal Albert honors the artistic achievements of the one it has so faithfully chronicled with this stunning 100 Years of Royal Albert tribute collection. Employing classic shapes and delicate floral motifs, the 10-part series, which includes teaware, figurines, and brooches, recalls major British historical events and style trends from each decade of the 21st century. Inspiration for the series came from previous Royal Albert designs and its archive pattern books.The collection's 10 three-piece sets are a wonderfully social way to tell the entire story, and this 1950 "Festival" makes a lovely chapter. Crafted of bone china with luxurious 22-karat gold trim on gracefully scalloped shapes, the teacup, saucer, and dessert plate celebrate a happy decade that included the end of World War II and Queen Elizabeth II's ascension to the British throne. At the time, bolder florals were popular--with many designs using typically English flowers--and this motif showcases vivid blue harebells framed by slender stems and long, graceful leaves. Each piece has a special commemorative backstamp, and the set comes packaged in a presentation-style pink and burgundy hatbox with depictions of all the patterns. The china is dishwasher-safe and carries a two-year warranty.--Kara Karll