Herend porcelain has been synonymous with luxury, craftsmanship, and artistry for nearly two centuries. Founded in Hungary in 1826, the Herend factory began as a small workshop producing simple porcelain items like Herend figurines but transformed into one of the most prestigious porcelain makers in the world.
By the mid-19th century, Herend had gained international acclaim for its exquisite, hand-painted china patterns that seamlessly blended European refinement with influences from Chinese export porcelain. The manufacturer's defining moment came in 1851 when it showcased its wares at the Great Exhibition in London, earning the favour of Queen Victoria herself. This marked the beginning of Herend's association with royalty and collectors, with Herend china patterns becoming iconic symbols of sophistication and timeless elegance.
Top Herend China Patterns - Our Picks
With literally hundreds of designs over the centuries, picking just 5 top Herend china patterns is no easy feat. But here are our choices for the most enduring favourites, cherished for their beauty, history, and artistry.
Queen Victoria
Introduced in 1851, the Herend china pattern, Queen Victoria, is perhaps the most famous of all Herend designs. It debuted at the Great Exhibition in London, where it captivated Queen Victoria, who commissioned a full dinner service adorned with this vibrant, nature-inspired design. Featuring lush florals such as peonies and chrysanthemums, interspersed with delicate butterflies, the pattern embodies the Victorian love for the natural world. Its cheerful yet regal palette of greens, pinks, and yellows is meticulously hand-painted, making each piece a work of art. The Queen Victoria pattern elevated Herend to global prominence and set the standard for luxury porcelain, making it a perennial favourite for collectors and those seeking heirloom-quality tableware.
Rothschild Bird
The Rothschild Bird pattern, introduced in the 1860s, is one of the top Herend china patterns steeped in whimsy and storytelling. It was commissioned by the Rothschild banking family and inspired by a charming tale of a lost pearl necklace that was discovered in a bird's nest. Each piece features a unique hand-painted vignette of colourful birds perched amidst branches, often accented by butterflies or gold details. The pattern's pastoral charm and lively narrative make it a standout in Herend's china patterns. The Rothschild Bird design reflects the 19th-century fascination with naturalism and storytelling, making it particularly beloved by collectors who appreciate its playful yet elegant character.
Apponyi (Asian Flowers)
Named after Count Albert Apponyi, a Hungarian aristocrat and passionate Herend patron, the Apponyi china pattern was introduced in the late 19th century. Originally a simplified version of the Queen Victoria pattern, it evolved into its own distinct design, characterized by symmetrical floral motifs inspired by Chinese porcelain. The flowers are typically rendered in a monochromatic palette—such as green, pink, or blue—enhanced with delicate gold accents. The understated elegance of Apponyi makes it a versatile choice, equally at home in casual and formal settings. This top Herend china pattern reflects Herend's ability to adapt classic elements for contemporary tastes, ensuring its lasting appeal.
Fish Scale
A striking departure from traditional floral motifs, the Fish Scale pattern was introduced in the early 20th century and remains one of Herend's most distinctive china patterns. Its intricate, overlapping scales create a mesmerizing texture that mimics the shimmering movement of fish in water. Often paired with complementary motifs such as florals or Asian-inspired imagery, the Fish Scale pattern is available in bold colourways like blue, green, and rust, all painstakingly hand-painted. This dynamic design showcases Herend's innovative spirit, appealing to collectors who seek porcelain that makes a bold artistic statement.
Chinese Bouquet
This top Heren China pattern was first created in the 1930s; the Chinese Bouquet pattern was initially called Apponyi Flowers but was later renamed to reflect its inspiration: the delicate floral designs found on traditional Chinese export porcelain. The symmetrical floral arrangements are hand-painted in vibrant colours such as raspberry, green, and blue, with rich gold accents that elevate the design. Chinese Bouquet is a testament to Herend's ability to draw on Eastern influences while maintaining a distinctly European sensibility. Its timeless elegance and versatility make it a popular choice for collectors and a staple in Herend's repertoire.
The Legacy of Artistry in Herend China Patterns
What sets Herend apart is its unwavering dedication to craftsmanship. Every piece is hand-painted by skilled artisans, with techniques passed down through generations. This commitment to artistry ensures that no two pieces are alike, infusing each with a sense of individuality and character. Patterns like Queen Victoria, the Rothschild Bird, Apponyi, Fish Scale, and Chinese Bouquet are historical artifacts, artistic masterpieces, and cherished heirlooms that embody the legacy of Herend.
