Herend Porcelain Manufactury (Hungary) dinner services

The Herend Porcelain Factory is a Hungarian porcelain manufacturer that has been producing fine china for over 180 years. It was founded in 1826 in the small village of Herend, located in western Hungary, by Vince Stingl, a Hungarian ceramicist.

Initially, the factory produced simple household ceramics such as bowls and plates, but from 1839 when it commenced manufacture of fine porcelain, it gained a reputation for its high-quality, hand-painted porcelain wares. The factory was recognized for its exquisite artistry and soon became a supplier to the Habsburg court in Vienna.

In 1851, Herend exhibited its porcelain at the Great Exhibition in London, which led to international acclaim and a commission to create a dinner service for Queen Victoria with a butterfly and floral pattern. This became known as the Victoria pattern. The Queen was so impressed with the quality and beauty of the porcelain that she ordered more... a second service, and Herend's reputation as a leading porcelain manufacturer was firmly established.

Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Herend continued to produce luxurious and exquisite porcelain pieces, catering to an international clientele. During World War II, the factory was temporarily closed and its production shifted to military needs. After the war, the factory resumed production and continued to thrive under communist rule.

In the 1990s, following the fall of communism, the Herend Porcelain Factory was privatized and has since expanded its product range to include modern designs, while still maintaining the traditional techniques and artistry that have made its porcelain so highly regarded.

Herend porcelain is sold in over 60 countries and is recognized as one of the world's leading luxury porcelain brands. The factory continues to produce its porcelain pieces entirely by hand, using the same traditional methods that have been passed down through generations of artisans. less...