Herend porcelain trophies and porcelain hearts at Anna Ball

The presence of Herend porcelain contributes year after year to the unique atmosphere that makes the Anna Ball one of the most prominent events in Hungarian social life.

In his welcoming speech, the main patron of the ball, Dr. Attila Simon, emphasized that the ball brings together two national prides: the Herend Porcelain Manufactory, which is 200 years old this year, and the Anna Ball. Two Hungarian treasures, two timeless values that simultaneously represent themselves and the Hungarian nation here at home and around the world. He said that true value becomes timeless when each generation rediscovers, preserves and further enriches it. Herend porcelain is therefore more than an exceptional craft work, and the Anna Ball is more than a tradition. Both are living heritage: they draw from their past but always speak to the future.

The female guests of this year’s ball received Herend porcelain hearts in a bronze metallic shade with gilded edge. The Belle of the Ball, Laura Windisch from Balatonfüred, and the runners up, Viktória Tollas from Debrecen and Regina Windisch (sister of the Belle of the Ball) from Balatonfüred, received special Herend ornamental vases. The unique porcelain creations have contemporary interpretations of the Manufactory’s iconic Queen Victoria, Rothschild and Apponyi decors. One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Kiss Ernő Prize, which this year went to Dr. Árpád Bereczki. The festive dinner was served to the guests on a 3,400-piece Herend porcelain set. The tables beautifully laid with Herend porcelain once again provided a worthy setting for the evening, which celebrated the meeting of tradition, elegance, and Hungarian artisanal values.