Description

This "Neuosier" teapot from an imperial service for Wilhelm II, dated 1919, comes from the traditional Königliche Porzellan‑Manufaktur Berlin (KPM) and is one of the particularly artfully designed pieces of the Imperial Era. Crafted from white glazed porcelain, the teapot features an iron-red Rococo cartouche with the Prussian eagle and the cipher "FR" – Friedrich Rex under the royal crown. This motif directly refers to Frederick the Great and the Prussian monarchical tradition.

The historical context is particularly noteworthy: The teapot continued to be produced with the emperor's coat of arms after his abdication. It is so-called "war-time tableware", recognizable by the black cross on the base of the pot. Thus, this piece probably belongs to the last porcelain objects made for Wilhelm II – an extraordinary detail for collectors and museums.

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

Dimensions and Condition

With a height of 12.5 cm and in very good condition, this teapot combines royal provenance, artisanal quality, 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 dinnerware of Wilhelm II's court. The emperor introduced a uniform porcelain for all castles. In the mid-1890s, the Oberhofmarschallamt (Lord Chamberlain's Office) placed a large initial order with KPM. However, "Neuosier" was not an exclusive special commission for the emperor: the shape was commercially available. The difference lay in the painting. While the Berlin floral bouquets were adopted, they were modified in the style of the "Third Rococo", color-reduced to monochrome iron-red, and complemented by a cartouche with the Prussian eagle.

Interestingly, this painting also reached the market – but without the eagle. The King of Italy even had the service made with the Savoy coat of arms.

"Neuosier" Dinnerware

In the KPM price lists from 1913, "Neuosier" is listed with 55 individual items for dinnerware and 14 items for coffee and tea sets. Many pieces 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 knew a great variety of dishes and serving forms.