This is a charming and highly collectible Orchid Designs Fine Porcelain "Easter Egg Carton" set, produced for the Winterthur Museum collection. The set features a whimsical white rabbit with pink-lined ears perched atop a removable porcelain lid, clutching a vibrant blue and yellow patterned Easter egg. The base is uniquely sculpted into a six-slot egg carton design, accented with a hand-painted 14K gold rim that provides a polished, elegant finish.
A unique feature of this set is the variety of the display: while two of the colorful eggs are permanently fixed within the carton to ensure a beautiful presentation, four individual porcelain eggs are fully removable. Each egg is hand-painted in a bright palette including shades of pink, yellow, orange, and blue adorned with delicate floral motifs.
This set comes complete with its original Winterthur Museum Educational Card (Item #8687), which details the history of Easter rabbit folklore:
"The rabbit shares much of the same symbolism as the hare, a creature that in many cultures represents fertility and the reasom of spring. German settlers brought folk tales about the hare to America. As the stories were absorbed into American culture, the hare was transformed into a rabbit, which became an emblem of Easter. The Winterthur collection includes some charming 19th century folk art rabbit figures. This very rare porcelain figurine set has been painted by hand."
The underside of the piece is marked with the authentic blue "Orchid Designs, England" backstamp. This delightful miniature set is a perfect addition to any seasonal display or a thoughtful gift for a collector of fine English porcelain. Made in England. Measurements are: 3 3/8 inches tall by 3 inches wide. This vintage item is collectible and it is in like new condition. No original box. (Comes with a complimentary box). Please see photos. MINT - The item is in perfect condition.
