With just five weeks until King Charles III’s coronation, a British fine bone china manufacturer is working diligently to produce “God Save The King” commemorative plates and mugs for the historic event. At the Duchess China factory in Stoke-on-Trent, craftsmen were busy on Thursday applying delicate gold edging to teacups and saucers to meet the anticipated demand for royal memorabilia.
The coronation, set to take place at London’s Westminster Abbey on May 6, will mark the U.K.’s first such ceremony since Charles’ mother, Queen Elizabeth II, was crowned nearly 70 years ago. Charles ascended to the throne following Elizabeth’s death in September.
Established in 1888, Duchess China has a long history of producing fine china. Their commemorative pieces, featuring the Union Jack’s red, white, and blue colors and inscribed with “God Save the King,” draw inspiration from designs created for the coronation of King George VI, Charles’ grandfather.
Jason Simms, the company’s managing director, noted that orders have come from as far afield as New Zealand and the United States, reflecting the widespread admiration for the British royal family. Despite recent challenges, including the effects of Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic, Simms hopes the coronation will help revive the company’s fortunes and highlight the excellence of British ceramics and craftsmanship.
“This is a significant opportunity to showcase a great British product to a global audience,” Simms remarked.
