Description

This "Neuosier" dinner plate from an imperial service for Wilhelm II., dated 1908, is a particularly artfully crafted piece from the Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin (KPM) and a coveted collector's item for lovers of Imperial Era porcelain, KPM Berlin, and historical table culture. The plate is decorated in iron red and features an elegant Rococo cartouche with the Prussian eagle, emblazoned with the cipher "FR" for Friedrich Rex under the royal crown – a direct reference to Frederick the Great and the Prussian monarchy.

The decor is framed by flower bouquets and a finely crafted golden grapevine border, lending the plate a festive and representative appearance. Particularly noteworthy is the owner's monogram "WR" for Wilhelm Rex, which underscores the personal connection to Emperor Wilhelm II. The reverse side bears the classic marks of KPM Berlin: the underglaze blue scepter mark and the red imperial orb mark, both with dating.

Dimensions and Condition

With a diameter of 24 cm and in very good condition, this plate is among the rare and high-quality objects from the imperial dinner service. The combination of historical symbolism, artful porcelain painting, and royal provenance makes it a true highlight for discerning collectors and museums.

"Neuosier" and its History

"Neuosier" was the standard dinnerware of Wilhelm II's court. The Emperor introduced a uniform porcelain service for all his 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. Although the Berlin flower bouquets were adopted, they were modified in the style of the "third Rococo", coloristically reduced to monochromatic iron red, and supplemented with a cartouche featuring the Prussian eagle.

It is interesting that this decoration also entered commercial trade – albeit without the eagle. The King of Italy even had the service produced with the Savoy coat of arms.

"Neuosier" Tableware

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 items could be ordered in multiple sizes – sometimes in up to eight variations. 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 featured a great variety of dishes and serving styles.