Exquisite porcelain for refined Georgian taste was first made in Derby in 1750. In the second half of the eighteenth century the factory developed arguably the finest painted porcelains in Europe and has enjoyed a long tradition of employing exceptionally gifted artists. It is a credit to the company partnerships that during the last 250 years they have adapted production to the changing tastes in fashion, styles, customs and etiquette, while still retaining the much-admired Derby signature which, today, is best seen in the Imari patterns.
Despite the decline in the British ceramic industry, Derby stands as a beacon of hope and optimism. When visiting the factory one is inspired by a collective pride and determination in a workforce that is professional and forward-looking. Many of the staff have been at Derby all their working lives and one senses the bond of comradeship, loyalty and pride felt by all who work there. The pottery skills of the company are always being challenged and it is admirable to see traditional methods of manufacture successfully combining with new technology. Good design and decoration are imperative and Louise Adams and her team are determined to maintain the high standard of the Derby style and design. It is interesting to observe the Royal College of Art connection - five graduates have become senior designers for the paperweight range.
Looking back at the launch of the Chatsworth Six in 1981 one wonders whether it was a stroke of luck, or was it genius? A major part of Royal Crown Derby's production for the past twenty-five years has been the paperweights and this catalogue is for the enthusiast and the collector who are cherished members of the Derby family. Their passion and knowledge is unbounded and fostered by the enthusiasm of the retailers who show an inherent appreciation of the product.
Royal Crown Derby's current design is exhibited in Phase 1 of the exciting and highlyacclaimed new ceramic galleries of the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Phase 2, due to open in 2010, will be a tremendous display of the Museum's collection and will include magnificent eighteenth-century Derby porcelain.
Derby was fortunate to be given back their independence by Hugh Gibson who so ably steers the company and staff through both the good and difficult times. He has kept faith with the paperweight concept and thereby created a special area of ceramic history. Nothing stands still and Royal Crown Derby will have to make difficult decisions and face future challenges but I'm convinced that the company's belief in their product (not to mention pressure from the paperweight lobby!) will ensure the future of these enchanting and highly-prized creations.
Richard Dennis OBE
2009
