What makes Royal Crown Derby Old Imari so valuable?

Royal Crown Derby is one of England’s oldest and most prestigious porcelain manufacturers. Established in Derby in 1750, the company has built a reputation for producing fine bone china and porcelain with exceptional artistry and attention to detail. The brand received its royal warrant in 1890, a mark of high honour that reflects its long-standing relationship with the British Royal Family.

Royal Crown Derby’s pieces are known for being luxurious with outstanding quality. Each item is typically hand-decorated, combining traditional techniques with intricate designs, often inspired by historical motifs. The Old Imari collection is among the most recognisable and cherished within their extensive catalogue.

Is Royal Crown Derby worth anything?

Royal Crown Derby porcelain holds significant value in the second-hand market. The value depends on several factors, including age, pattern rarity, condition, and location. Antique pieces, especially those bearing early marks or unique designs like Old Imari, can sell for premium prices among collectors

Over time, Royal Crown Derby has maintained a strong following, and the market for these pieces remains active, making them a worthwhile investment for collectors.

What is Royal Crown Derby Old Imari, and why is it so popular?

Introduced by Royal Crown Derby in the late 19th century, Old Imari is inspired by the oriental style with a British touch, creating a unique fusion of East and West.  The design is known for its rich combination of vibrant reds, deep blues, and gleaming golds, featuring intricate floral and geometric motifs.

The pattern appears on a wide range of items, including tea sets, plates, vases, and bowls. Its bold colours and detailed hand-painted decoration make Old Imari instantly recognisable and highly sought after by collectors around the world.

The long-standing popularity of Old Imari stems from its luxurious aesthetic. Each piece’s meticulous hand-painting and strict quality control ensure that every item is a miniature work of art, keeping Old Imari in high demand for over a century.

How do you identify Imari porcelain marks?

Imari marks help verify authenticity and age. For Royal Crown Derby:

• Crown emblem above the words “Royal Crown Derby”
• Pattern numbers and painter’s marks may be present
• Early pieces may have simpler printed or hand-painted marks
• Later pieces could have more detailed crowned stamps, often in red or gold
• All genuine pieces have a smooth, well-finished glazed base

Original Japanese Imari marks often feature:

• Red underglaze mark
• Japanese characters or family crests

So, is Old Imari valuable?

Yes! Royal Crown Derby’s Old Imari remains valuable due to its craftsmanship, rich history, and continued demand. Limited edition pieces and older productions are especially sought after. Well-maintained items with bright colours and intact gilding attract keen interest in the second-hand market.

At PM Antiquities, we offer a large and varied collection of Royal Crown Derby figures and models, ranging in price from £60 to £470. Our selection includes rare and sought-after items, including many examples of the beloved Old Imari pattern.

Bone china vs porcelain: What does Royal Crown Derby use?

Understanding the difference between bone china and porcelain helps appreciate the quality behind Royal Crown Derby’s Old Imari collection. The two materials differ mainly in composition and appearance.

Bone china contains bone ash, which gives it greater translucency, a warmer, creamier tone, and makes it less prone to chipping. Porcelain, made primarily from kaolin clay, is typically harder and opaque, with a cooler white finish, and is known for its durability.

Want to know how to spot the difference? A simple way to tell them apart is to hold the piece up to the light. Bone china will usually allow some light to pass through, showing a translucency, whereas porcelain appears more solid.

Royal Crown Derby predominantly uses bone china for its products, including the celebrated Old Imari range. This choice is ideal for showcasing the intricate hand-painted designs that define Old Imari’s beauty. When it comes to value, bone china generally commands higher prices than standard porcelain, thanks to its quality, durability, and the craftsmanship required to produce it.

Looking to add Royal Crown Derby to your collection?

At PM Antiques & Collectables, we stock a wide selection of Royal Crown Derby pieces, from finely crafted animal figures and decorative models to elegant tableware, why not check out the collection.

If you have Old Imari or other Royal Crown Derby items and would like to explore their background or potential value, feel free to contact us.