Two-Piece Antique Victoria Austria Lobster Serving Set c. 1890–1910

Exceptional antique two-piece porcelain lobster serving set, produced in Austria circa 1890–1910 and marked “Victoria Austria” with crown, a known export mark used during the late Victorian and early Edwardian periods.
The set includes a large shell-form lobster platter and a matching smaller companion dish, both featuring a dramatically modeled lobster in vivid red-orange hand-applied glaze. The porcelain bodies are decorated with soft floral transfer decoration in pinks and greens, finished with hand-applied gilt accents along the scalloped shell rims.
The lobsters are rendered in high relief with carefully detailed claws, segmented tails, and legs, giving the pieces a sculptural, almost theatrical presence—hallmarks of late-19th-century European luxury tableware.
What It Was / Original Purpose
This set was created for formal lobster and seafood service in affluent households and upscale dining settings.


Large platter: Presentation of a whole lobster or shellfish centerpiece

Smaller dish: Butter, sauces, or accompaniments

Shell-form rim cutouts: Drainage and utensil rest features
Such pieces were meant to impress guests and demonstrate refinement, wealth, and hospitality during elaborate meals.
How It Can Be Used Today
Today, the set is best suited for decorative and display use, though it can be used lightly with care.
Modern uses include:

Statement display on a buffet, sideboard, or dining table
Wall display in a kitchen or dining room
Styled tablescapes or photo shoots
Serving wrapped or dry foods
Because of age, porcelain composition, and antique glazes, frequent food use is not recommended.
Condition
Very good antique condition for age.

No cracks, breaks, or restorations observed
Minor wear to gilding along edges and raised areas
Light surface wear and firing imperfections consistent with period production
Clear Victoria Austria crown mark visible on the underside
Overall condition is consistent with authentic late-19th/early-20th-century Austrian porcelain.
 
History
The Victoria Austria mark with crown was used by Austrian porcelain producers during the late 1800s and early 1900s, primarily for export to British and American markets. During this era, elaborate figural serving pieces—especially seafood forms—were highly fashionable.
Lobster platters symbolized luxury dining and coastal abundance and were often reserved for special occasions. Two-piece sets were sold together, but over time many companion dishes were lost, making complete sets increasingly rare today.Crowned Victoria Austria mark confirms period authenticity
 

Bright polychrome lobster version is the most iconic and recognizable form

Complete matching two-piece sets are increasingly scarce