Large Royal Copenhagen Art Nouveau Crystalline Glaze Tray with polar Bears. Designed by Arnold Krog and glaze by Frederik Ludvigsen "Northpole" No 851

Arnold Krog was a prominent Danish ceramicist and artist who lived from 1856 to 1931. He is best known for his significant role in the development of ceramics and crafts in Denmark. Here are some key points about his life and career: 1. **Early Years:** Arnold Krog was born in Denmark in 1856. He showed an early interest in crafts and ceramics and began his education as a ceramist. 2. **Promotion of Ceramics:** Krog was a pioneer in the field of ceramics and worked hard to promote ceramic art and production in Denmark. He became a central figure in the so-called "Golden Age of Ceramics" in Denmark in the early 20th century. 3. **Artistic Leadership:** Arnold Krog became head of the Royal Porcelain Factory in Copenhagen in 1884. Under his leadership, the factory began producing ceramic works of high artistic quality and introduced new decoration techniques. 4. **Flammingo Service:** One of his most famous works is the so-called "Flammingo Service," which was created in collaboration with the painter Johannes Larsen. This service is known for its artistic decoration and high quality. 5. **Glaze experiments:** Krog was also known for his experiments with glazes, developing innovative techniques that gave his ceramics unique colors and textures. 6. **Legacy:** Arnold Krog left a significant legacy in Danish ceramics and crafts. His work was recognized for its artistic quality and technical skill. 7. **Death and Legacy:** Arnold Krog died in 1931, but his influence on Danish ceramics and crafts lives on. His work can be found in museum and private collections in Denmark and internationally. Arnold Krog is considered one of the most important figures in Danish ceramics and helped raise the standard of ceramic art in Denmark. He is known for his technical expertise and creative innovation, which has left a lasting impression on the Danish craft tradition.

Once upon a time, in beautiful Copenhagen, there was a ceramics workshop that would revolutionize the art of porcelain making. This workshop later became known as Royal Copenhagen. The story of Royal Copenhagen began in 1775 when the Danish king, Frederik V, decided to set up a ceramics workshop in Copenhagen. The workshop was founded under the name "The Royal Porcelain Factory". The king wanted to create a unique and exclusive production of porcelain goods that could match the quality of the European aristocracy's collection of finest porcelain. Soon, masters of the art were called in from both Germany and the Netherlands to contribute to the workshop's success. Together, these potters created the finest porcelain using their skill, precision and artistic flair. Every single pot, plate and figurine was hand-painted and unique, making Royal Copenhagen porcelain something truly special. Royal Copenhagen's popularity quickly grew and it became known worldwide for its aesthetics and craftsmanship. Royal families, nobles and important people across Europe almost competed to own the exclusive porcelain that bore the famous blue color, also known as "musselmalet". Over the years, Royal Copenhagen has developed and expanded its product line, but there has always been a strong focus on the finest craftsmanship. Despite industrial advances, the pottery masters have maintained the tradition of painting each piece of porcelain by hand, ensuring that each vase, bowl or cup is a unique work of art. Today, Royal Copenhagen remains a remarkable part of Danish cultural heritage. The beautiful blue and white porcelain wares have become a symbol of Danish design and quality and can be found in homes all over the world. Royal Copenhagen still strives to preserve the proud tradition of craftsmanship and beauty that made the workshop famous so many years ago. The story of Royal Copenhagen is a story of dedication to craftsmanship, love of beauty and an age-old tradition that lives on in our modern world. It is the story of a small ceramics workshop that grew to become an iconic brand and a symbol of Danish culture.