Royal Doulton Catherine of Braganza HN4267 (2000) - Queens of the Realm Series

HN Number : 4267

Production years : 2000 (Limited Edition)

Height : 9.25"

Produced in : United Kingdom

Condition: Mint , no chips, cracks or repairs. 

Series : Queens of the Real

The Forgotten Queen: Catherine of Braganza's Royal Legacy

Catherine of Braganza HN4267 honors one of England's most overlooked queens - the Portuguese princess who brought tea drinking, fork usage, and exotic fashion to the English court. This magnificent figurine captures Catherine in her distinctive Portuguese court dress, celebrating her unique cultural contributions to English royal history.

Historical Significance: Catherine of Braganza (1638-1705) was Queen consort of England, Scotland, and Ireland as the wife of King Charles II. Though often overshadowed by the king's mistresses, Catherine introduced many customs that became quintessentially English, including the afternoon tea tradition that remains beloved today.

A Portuguese Princess in the English Court

Catherine's marriage to Charles II in 1662 was a political alliance that brought significant dowry territories including Tangier and Bombay (Mumbai) to the English crown. More importantly for cultural history, she brought Portuguese court customs that would transform English society.

Cultural Legacy:

• Tea drinking: Introduced tea consumption to English nobility
• Table etiquette: Popularized the use of forks at English tables
• Fashion influence: Brought exotic fabrics and Portuguese styles to court
• Religious devotion: Remained steadfastly Catholic in Protestant England
• Architectural influence: Influenced design of royal residences

Artistic Excellence by Valerie Annand

Designer Valerie Annand masterfully captured Catherine's Portuguese heritage while honoring her English royal status. This figurine showcases the exotic court dress that made Catherine stand out among English nobles, with rich fabrics and distinctive styling that reflected her Iberian origins.

Design Elements:

• Authentic Portuguese court dress: Rich velvets and distinctive cut reflecting 1660s fashion
• Cultural authenticity: Details showing Portuguese royal traditions
• Regal bearing: Pose conveying royal dignity and quiet strength
• Period accuracy: Historically correct costume and accessories
• Symbolic elements: Design celebrates her unique cultural contributions

Artistic Challenge: Annand successfully balanced Catherine's exotic Portuguese heritage with her English royal status, creating a piece that honors both cultures.

The Queens of the Realm Series

Catherine of Braganza HN4267 represents Royal Doulton's commitment to celebrating lesser-known but historically significant queens. This series focuses on royal women who made lasting contributions beyond their ceremonial roles.

Series Characteristics:

• Educational focus: Highlighting overlooked historical figures
• Millennium celebration: Marking significant royal women across centuries
• Limited production: Enhanced collectibility through scarcity
• Cultural diversity: Celebrating queens from various backgrounds
• Historical accuracy: Museum-quality research and design

Catherine's Place: As the Portuguese queen who transformed English customs, Catherine represents the international influences that shaped British culture.

Contact William Cross today for expert guidance on Royal Doulton historical figurines and modern limited editions. Our Charlton Standard Catalogue heritage ensures you receive authentic pieces with complete historical context and current market expertise.