Bing & Grøndahl Christmas Plate 1946 The Cross in Nyhavn

The Cross in Nyhavn from 1946 is one of the Bing & Grøndahl Christmas plates in which the motif carries a special weight and history. In the middle of the wintry Nyhavn, the cross rises in the foreground, surrounded by snow and with the characteristic houses and the canal stretched out behind it. The blue decoration creates a calm, almost solemn atmosphere, where the city's familiar setting meets the memory of a dramatic time close to Christmas.

In this edition, Nyhavn is not only depicted as an atmospheric Copenhagen city space, but also as a memorial site. The cross refers to the memorial cross that was erected after World War II in honor of the many sailors who lost their lives on the Allied side. In the motif, it stands simple and prominent against the quiet canal, flanked by lanterns and old facades, which emphasize both the identity of the place and the historical character of the plate.

The Christmas plate is designed by Margrethe Hyldahl, and it is precisely the interplay between storytelling, city motif and the classic blue-and-white Bing & Grøndahl style that makes this edition particularly interesting. The series began as early as 1895 as the world's first Christmas plate series, and since then a new plate has been released every year. The 1946 edition therefore stands as part of a long Danish design tradition, but also as a snapshot from the first post-war years.

For collectors, the edition is interesting because each Bing & Grøndahl Christmas plate was produced in a limited number in the year in question. After the final firing of the year, the mold was destroyed, so the completed edition could not later be put into production again. This gives each plate its own completed place in the series and is part of the explanation for the enduring interest in the older releases.

Although this Christmas plate has clear collector's value, it can also be used in everyday life. From 1905 onward, Bing & Grøndahl Christmas plates are suitable for food, and this edition can, for example, be used as a small dessert plate or for cake during Christmas time. The rest of the year, it adds history, Danish design and personality to the home, whether it is hung up or brought out for a special serving. On the back there are two holes for hanging.

Choosing an older Christmas plate like this is at the same time a beautiful way to give classic Danish porcelain new life. A piece with history and soul brings sustainability, cultural heritage and atmosphere into a modern home.

Product information:
Manufacturer: Bing & Grøndahl
Designer: Margrethe Hyldahl
Series: Christmas plate
Year: 1946
Dimensions: Ø 18 cm
Hanging: Two holes on the back for hanging