The most popular vase motifs have always been flowers of every hue – from the very Danish dandelion to exotic and exuberant lilies and trumpet flowers. The ideas for the motifs come from the vase painters, who have creative responsibility for their own work. They take their inspiration from books, earlier creations and, of course, their own gardens.

In the floral motifs the beholder will perceive a trial of strength between art and reality. Which is more beautiful, the motif or its representation? With all its naturalness, perfume and texture, the real flower is a work of art created by nature, but the vase painter’s interpretation of the flower far exceeds the reality in its execution of shade and colour.

On the curved sides of the vase the flora is captured in its prime under the smooth glaze, like a bouquet that will never be allowed to wither.

A Royal Copenhagen vase is a work of art that can be admired from any angle. It is also a very exacting piece of craftsmanship that makes great demands on the creative faculties and technical know-how of the individual painter.

Every brushstroke on the smooth sides of the vase makes leaves unfurl, clouds drift across a blue summer sky and proud ships rock on the waves, all depending on the temperament of the individual painters and how they interpret landscapes and flora.