From the release of a special edition mug illustrated by HM Queen Margrethe in January, a collaboration with sculptor and artist Klara Lilja in May, to the launch of ‘Kontur’ at this year’s 3daysofdesign, it’s already been quite the year for Royal Copenhagen.
Founded in 1775, and celebrating their 250th anniversary in style, it seems that this much-loved Danish porcelain maker has still more exciting launches up its sleeve. So, to coincide with the unveiling of their latest collection, ‘Our Heritage Explored’, I caught up with Creative Director, Jasper Toron Nielsen for a chat.
Bridging past and present, and reimagining the traditional tablescape for the way we live now, ‘Our Heritage Explored’ not only revives icons from the Royal Copenhagen archives but also debuts fresh pieces that expand its product range even further.
Here’s what Jasper had to tell me:
As a Dane, what does it mean to you to now be part of Royal Copenhagen’s extensive history, especially during this anniversary year?
Like most Danes I have a deeply emotional connection to Royal Copenhagen. I started collecting pieces in my early twenties, often bringing them back from Denmark while living abroad for work. As a brand it’s woven into our national fabric and my mother was a collector too, so as I grew up, I was surrounded by stories of porcelain and hosting. To now be part of this legacy, especially during our 250th anniversary, is incredibly meaningful, and it’s a chance for me to honour this heritage while shaping its future.
Why do you think Royal Copenhagen continues to resonate with collectors 250 years on, what would you say is the secret to its continued success?
While 250 years is a remarkable milestone, I believe it’s the emotional connection people form with our pieces that defines it. Royal Copenhagen isn’t just about porcelain it’s about storytelling, craftsmanship, and timeless design. Our Pattern No. 1, the Blue Fluted Plain, created on day one, is still our most popular. That says everything about enduring beauty. Collectors appreciate the hand-painted details, the heritage, and the fact that these pieces are made to be passed down through generations.
This year we’ve already seen a number of exciting collaborations and launches, but can you tell us more about the latest collection, ‘Our Heritage Explored’?
‘Our Heritage Explored’ is a celebration of our archives as well as a look forward. It revives iconic pieces like the ‘Blue Fluted Full Lace Candelabra’ and ‘Blue Fluted Full Lace Rectangular Dish’, the latter of which traces its origins back to the late 1800s, while also introducing sculptural crystal glassware and intricately stitched cotton-and-linen-blend table textiles for the first time. It’s about creating a complete tablescape that feels both artful and intimate while bringing the Royal Copenhagen universe full circle.
What was the inspiration behind the final designs, and how have traditional techniques and new technologies been combined in their making?
The inspiration came from imagining how stories from our past could be retold today. We’ve combined centuries-old techniques like hand-painted underglaze details that have defined Royal Copenhagen for generations with modern design processes, including 3D modelling and collaborations with contemporary artists. For example, Klara Lilja’s wild ceramics challenged our craftspeople in new ways while staying rooted in tradition. It’s a delicate balance of heritage and experimentation.
With the way people dine together now shifting, how is this collection helping to reshape and reimagine Royal Copenhagen’s approach to entertaining?
Younger generations are redefining what entertaining looks like. It’s no longer about buying twelve identical pieces but about curating a table that reflects personality and taste. ‘Our Heritage Explored’ supports this shift by offering versatile, expressive elements that allow people to mix, match, and tell their own stories. We’re seeing a renewed excitement around hosting and dining together, and this collection is designed to meet that moment with elegance and individuality.
Many thanks to Jasper for taking the time to talk with me, the ‘Our Heritage Explored’ collection is available now at selected stores and online at royalcopenhagen.com
All images courtesy of Royal Copenhagen.
Enjoyed this post? Then read more about Royal Copenhagen’s ‘Still Making Waves’ exhibition at this year’s 3daysofdesign festival.
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