Royal Crown Derby Dragon of Happiness Paperweight, Millennium Edition 1271/1500, Bone China

Royal Crown Derby Dragon of Happiness Paperweight Limited Edition 1271/1500 Millennium Dragon

Some collectibles are admired.

Others become centrepieces.

This magnificent Royal Crown Derby Dragon of Happiness was created to celebrate the arrival of the new Millennium and remains one of the most ambitious and visually striking paperweights ever produced by the renowned English porcelain manufacturer.

Crafted in fine English bone china and lavishly decorated with hand-applied 22ct gold, the dragon coils around itself in a powerful sculptural form inspired by traditional Eastern symbolism. Thousands of individually painted scales shimmer beneath rich gilding, while vivid cobalt blue, turquoise, coral red and white enamel details bring the mythical creature to life from every angle.

Unlike many Royal Crown Derby paperweights which focus on animals and birds, this dragon possesses a commanding presence more akin to a sculpture than a decorative ornament. Whether displayed in a collection cabinet, study, library or contemporary interior, it immediately draws the eye.

This example is Number 1271 from a strictly limited edition of just 1,500 pieces worldwide and was produced exclusively for Peter Jones China of Wakefield and Leeds to mark the Millennium.

Importantly, the piece retains its:

✓ Original Royal Crown Derby gold stopper

✓ Original numbered certificate

✓ Original wooden display plinth

✓ Matching edition number (1271)

Complete examples are becoming increasingly difficult to find, particularly with certificate and display base still present.

In Chinese culture, dragons symbolise wisdom, prosperity, strength, protection and good fortune. The Dragon of Happiness was designed to embody these qualities, making it not only a highly collectible Royal Crown Derby piece but also a striking symbolic artwork.

Details

* Maker: Royal Crown Derby
* Model: Dragon of Happiness
* Edition Number: 1271 of 1500
* Date: 1999 Millennium Issue
* Material: Fine English Bone China
* Decoration: Hand-applied 22ct gold and enamel decoration
* Includes original gold stopper
* Includes original numbered certificate
* Includes original wooden display plinth
* Made in England

Condition

Presented in excellent display condition.

No chips, cracks or repairs observed. The gilding remains bright and reflective, colours are vibrant, and the piece displays beautifully. Certificate and plinth are included as shown.

Please examine all photographs carefully as they form part of the description and condition report.

A rare opportunity to acquire one of Royal Crown Derby’s most impressive Millennium creations; a statement piece for the serious collector and a remarkable example of English porcelain artistry.