The Poetry
of Spring

Roses, tulips, poppies, orchids, mushrooms, butterflies and sea creatures represent spectacular flora and fauna, an invitation to stop for a moment and reflect on the art of living Christian Dior so cherished. Tea and coffee cups as well as plates of all sizes come together to create a dream garden in which the magic of every detail and each ray of light lets nature’s splendours shine.

Christian Dior was captivated by one flower in particular: the rose. Dior Maison celebrates that blossom with a collection tenderly named Roseraie in homage to the rose garden at the villa Les Rhumbs in Granville, Normandy ­– the founding couturier’s childhood home, surrounded by a lush expanse of green lovingly tended by his mother, Madeleine. The queen of flowers now appears in all her majesty on porcelain, from bud to full bloom.

A sketch, executed with great precision by a painter, brings to life an irresistibly realistic bouquet. First, a template is placed, and charcoal etches out the motif in all its transparency and delicate detail. The finest lines are drawn with a quill pen using a featherlight touch. Next come the first strokes of colour; the lightest shades form a mesmerizing backdrop onto which, after an initial firing, fresh brushstrokes are applied.

A hypnotic ballet of soft yet contrasting hues, varied rhythms and gestures produce an image recalling a photograph taken of a real landscape. There is no predefined model, just the “movement of life” that captures each flower’s uniqueness in its purest truth. A perfect, vibrant tableau as spontaneous as the wind. As a final hint of elegance, two gold edgings complete the design, winding their way between leaves and petals. Like a last little surprise, the creation’s poetic name – Rose Tendre – is revealed on the reverse, alongside the inscription “hand-painted”.