Portmeirion Botanic Garden Napkin Rings - Set of 2, Vintage British Ceramic

A pair of fine earthenware napkin rings from the iconic 'Botanic Garden' collection by the British manufacturer Portmeirion. This series, one of the most recognized in 20th-century ceramic design, is noted for its refined naturalistic aesthetic and technical quality.

History: The Botanic Garden collection was created by designer Susan Williams-Ellis in 1972. The design was based on 19th-century botanical illustrations taken from 'The Universal Herbal' (1817), integrating flowers and butterflies in asymmetrical compositions that broke with the rigidity of traditional tableware of the time.

Details and Condition:
- Period: Circa 1980-1990.
- Technique: Transferware on glazed fine earthenware.
- Dimensions per unit: 4.5 cm height (1.77 inches), 4.5 cm width (1.77 inches), 2.5 cm depth (0.98 inches).
- Total weight: 135 g (0.30 lb).
- Material: Ceramic (Earthenware).
- Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The glaze retains its original luster, with no cracks, chips, or evident signs of crazing.

Value: These examples feature the classic pansy (Viola tricolor) and other wildflower motifs, accompanied by the series' characteristic insects. They are pieces of high interest for Portmeirion collectors and for integration into European rustic or classic English table settings.