The Gripsholm Service, one of the most
magnificent ever imported to Sweden
through the Swedish East India Company,
is a fine example of the many new shapes
and articles ordered from China in accord-
ance with European stylistic ideals.
This service was purportedly presented to Gustav III by the
Directors of the Company. It includes, among other things,
dishes, wine coolers, custard cups, butter dishes, and sugar
and sauce bowls. The décor is underglaze blue, consisting
of the Lesser National Coat of Arms in a round shield and
rows of scattered crowns. Each item is inscribed GRIPS
HOLM. The service is mentioned in inventories for 1781
and 1798. It was much used and pieces were lost. By the
beginning of the 19th century interest in it was at a low ebb
and in 1819 the remaining pieces were auctioned off. Carl
XV and Oscar II proceeded to buy back individual pieces,
and the items on show here carry their markings.
Inventory numbers: NM-1940-222, 224-227
CXV-1320-21, 1443, 2290
BS-1691-92, Oscar II 849