Antique Minton Cabinet Porcelain Armorial Plates, C.1860.

A rare and antique pair of armorial plates with floral décor on a blue ground, created by Minton. These cabinet plates are attractively decorated in a color known as "Minton Blue," a fresh azure blue that Minton was renowned for. The plates' body is hand-painted with floral and gold patterns, featuring finely gilt rococo panels and hand-painted flowers.

At the center is a coat of arms with the worn inscription "My Hope is in God" in Latin. This coat of arms belongs to Christ's College, part of the University of Cambridge, and includes traditional symbols associated with the institution. The shield features a black eagle with outstretched wings and a silver house, symbolizing the college's founder, Lady Margaret Beaufort, mother of King Henry VII. The crown and mitre above the shield signify the college's ecclesiastical and royal connections, while the band encircling the shield bears a Latin motto.

It is likely that this set of plates was specially made to order for the college in limited editions, which adds to its historical value and collector interest. These plates were rarely used for their intended purpose and served more as decoration, which is evident from their condition. The bottom of the plates bears the official Minton stamp and date mark, authenticating their origin and time period.

The Minton Porcelain Company was one of the pioneers of English porcelain production. Founded in 1793 in Stoke-on-Trent by Thomas Minton, the factory passed to his son after his death in 1836. Under his son's leadership, the company became one of the leading producers of high-quality ceramics, porcelain, and tiles in Victorian England. Minton made the brand famous for its cream-colored and blue-printed earthenware, majolica, bone china, and Parian porcelain. The factory, located in Staffordshire, became renowned for its fine white bone china and bright colors.

In the 19th century, Minton supplied vast quantities of tableware, tiles, and other items to the USA, including the White House, which traditionally used Minton crockery. Many prominent buildings of that era, including the Houses of Parliament, were tiled with Minton tiles. The dining room of the British royal family on the royal yacht "Britannia," where the most prominent world figures are invited, is also served with Minton tableware.

The factory was a popular supplier of custom-made dinnerware for embassies and heads of state, and the Minton name continues to this day as part of the Waterford, Wedgwood, and Royal Doulton Group. In the 19th century, the Minton trademark was the most famous in porcelain production and remains one of the most valuable. These plates are a magnificent, exquisite gift and a true treasure for serious collectors.

Dimensions: Diameter 23.2 cm, weight: one plate 508 grams, the other 524 grams.

Condition: Excellent antique condition.

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