• Diameter:
  15 1/2 Inches
• Period:
  Other
• Origin:
  Other Europe

A skillfully executed Flora Danica pierced charger decorated with a Gahus morrhua, commonly referred to as the Atlantic Cod. From its brown-to-green spotted dorsal to its silvery ventral, each and every detail of this demersal fish is incredibly realistic. This charger was created by special order, and bears full Royal Copenhagen marks and the pattern number "3529." 15 1/2" The creation of the Flora Danica service was the life's work of Johann Christoph Bayer, one of the most gifted artists of the late 18th century. It took Bayer over 12 years to complete the service intended as a gift for Empress Catherine the Great of Russia. Each piece was hand-molded and hand-painted with carefully reproduced motifs from the Danish botanical encyclopedia entitled Flora Danica (Flowers of Denmark). Unfortunately, Catherine died in 1796 before it was complete, and the service was then placed in the collection of the Danish Royal Family. Flora Danica was first used on January 29, 1803, for the banquet celebrating the birthday of King Christian VII. Since that time, this exquisite pattern has remained the centerpiece of ceremonial occasions, weddings and visits by foreign dignitaries. Today, pieces of Flora Danica are exhibited in the Danish royal collections of Rosenborg Castle and Amalienborg Palace as well as Queen Elizabeth II's private collection at Windsor Castle.