Description

This "Neuosier" cup with a matching saucer from an imperial service for Wilhelm II. originates from the traditional Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin (KPM) and is one of the particularly finely crafted objects of the Imperial era. The cup is dated 1913, the saucer 1908—both pieces are made of white glazed porcelain and decorated in iron red.

The decoration features an elegant Rococo cartouche with the Prussian eagle, adorned with the cipher "FR" for Friedrich Rex under the royal crown—a direct reference to Frederick the Great and the Prussian monarchical tradition. The design is complemented by colorful floral bouquets and a finely crafted golden vine leaf border, which gives the ensemble a festive and representative appearance.

Dimensions and Condition

Particularly noteworthy is the owner's monogram "WR" for Wilhelm Rex, which underscores the personal connection to Emperor Wilhelm II. The reverse sides bear the classic marks of KPM Berlin: the underglaze blue scepter mark and the red imperial orb mark, each with a date. The cup measures 5.5 cm in diameter with a height of 5.7 cm, and the saucer has a diameter of 11 cm. Both pieces are in very good condition.

This ensemble combines royal provenance, artistic craftsmanship, and historical significance—a true highlight for collectors of KPM porcelain, Imperial-era dinnerware, and representative objects of German history.

"Neuosier" and its History

"Neuosier" was the standard dinnerware for Wilhelm II's court. The Emperor introduced standardized porcelain for all castles. In the mid-1890s, the Oberhofmarschallamt placed a large initial order with KPM. However, "Neuosier" was not an exclusive custom order for the Emperor: the shape was commercially available. The difference lay in the decoration. While the Berlin floral bouquets were adopted, they were modified in the style of the "third Rococo", reduced in color to monochrome iron red, and complemented by a cartouche with the Prussian eagle.

Interestingly, this decoration also reached the market—albeit without the eagle. The King of Italy even had the service produced with the Savoyard coat of arms.

"Neuosier" Dinnerware

In the KPM price lists of 1913, "Neuosier" is listed with 55 individual pieces for dinnerware and 14 pieces for coffee and tea service. Many pieces could be ordered in multiple sizes—sometimes in up to eight variants. The assortment included, in addition to plates, platters, and bowls, also jelly cups, bouillon tureens, and a variety of "compote bowls". The latter, in particular, provide insight into the dining culture of the Imperial era, which knew a great variety of dishes and serving forms.