Condition: Mint
Height: 2″
Diameter: 5″
Year Manufactured: 1980
This charming piece you’re looking at is a Herend Openwork Basket from around 1980. It’s a lovely little object that’s perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any space. Standing…
Condition: Mint
Height: 2″
Diameter: 5″
Year Manufactured: 1980
This charming piece you’re looking at is a Herend Openwork Basket from around 1980. It’s a lovely little object that’s perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any space. Standing at just 2 inches tall and with a diameter of 5 inches, it’s compact yet eye-catching. The intricate design features delicate weaving, showcasing the craftsmanship that Herend is known for. The hand-painted floral motif in the center brings a vibrant burst of color, making it not just a functional item but also a piece of art. Despite its age, this piece is in mint condition, which is somewhat rare for vintage ceramics. Finding one in such pristine shape adds to its allure and makes it a great collector’s item.
Herend is a Hungarian brand with a long history of producing fine porcelain. Established in 1826, the Herend Porcelain Manufactory quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality, handcrafted items. The company’s dedication to preserving traditional methods while incorporating intricate and artistic designs has been key to its success over the decades. Initially, Herend served aristocratic families, and it gained international fame when Queen Victoria ordered a set with a Chinese-style pattern at the London Great Exhibition in 1851. This royal endorsement placed Herend on the map, leading to more commissions from monarchs and nobility across Europe.
The openwork or reticulated design evident in this basket is one of Herend’s specialties, often crafted by skilled artisans who have honed their talents over years. Herend’s pieces tend to have an enduring quality, made with a pure, creamy-white porcelain base that highlights the vivid hand-painted scenes or motifs that adorn each item. Because every piece is meticulously painted by hand, slight variations ensure each item is unique, much like a miniature work of art. This personal touch, along with the brand’s commitment to quality craftsmanship, is a significant reason why Herend continues to be highly regarded and collected worldwide today.
In terms of its rarity, items from the late 20th century like this basket reflect a period when Herend started becoming accessible to a broader audience beyond just the elite. Although newer than some antique Herend pieces from the 19th century, it is still considered vintage, offering both charm and history as part of its appeal. Vintage Herend pieces particularly those in mint condition without any chips, cracks, or fading of the paintwork, can command a premium among collectors who appreciate the brand’s legacy.
For someone interested in starting a collection or simply looking to own a piece of history, a Herend basket is an excellent choice. It not only serves a decorative purpose but also connects the owner to a rich tradition of European porcelain-making. Having a Herend piece like this is having a small slice of history, art, and luxury all wrapped into one.
