Description

This round serving platter from a Neuosier dinner service Berlin for Kaiser Wilhelm II., dated 1902, originates from the long-standing Königliche Porzellan‑Manufaktur Berlin (KPM) and is among the most artistically designed pieces of the Imperial Era. Made of white glazed porcelain, the platter features a Rococo cartouche in iron-red with the Prussian eagle and the cipher “FR” – Friedrich Rex under the royal crown. This motif directly references Frederick the Great and the Prussian monarchical tradition.

The decor is complemented by colored floral bouquets and a finely crafted golden vine leaf border, which gives the piece a festive and representative appearance. On the reverse side are the classic KPM marks: the underglaze blue scepter mark and the red imperial orb mark. Particularly noteworthy is the owner's monogram “WR” for Wilhelm Rex, which emphasizes the personal connection to Kaiser Wilhelm II.

Dimensions and Condition

With its dimensions of 26 cm (diameter) × 5.5 cm (height) and in very good condition – with only a small crack on the bottom ring – this serving platter combines royal provenance, artistic craftsmanship, and historical significance. A true highlight for collectors of KPM porcelain, Imperial Era tableware, and representative objects of German history.

"Neuosier" and its History

"Neuosier" was the standard tableware of Wilhelm II.'s court. The Emperor introduced uniform porcelain for all palaces. In the mid-1890s, the Oberhofmarschallamt (Lord Marshal's Office) placed a large initial order with the KPM. However, "Neuosier" was not an exclusive custom-made item for the Emperor: the form was commercially available. The difference lay in the painting. While the Berlin floral bouquets were retained, they were modified in the style of the "third Rococo," coloristically reduced to monochromatic iron-red, and complemented by a cartouche with the Prussian eagle.

It is interesting that this painting also entered the market – but without the eagle. The King of Italy even had the service made with the Savoyard coat of arms.

"Neuosier" Dinner Service

In the KPM price lists of 1913, "Neuosier" is listed with 55 individual pieces for the dinner service and 14 pieces for the coffee and tea service. Many pieces could be ordered in multiple sizes – some in up to eight variants. The assortment included not only plates, platters, and bowls but also jelly cups, bouillon pots, 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.