Description

This dessert plate from a "Neuosier dinner service - Berlin" for Emperor Wilhelm II., dated 1904, originates from the long-established Königliche Porzellan‑Manufaktur Berlin (KPM) and is considered one of the particularly artfully designed pieces of the Imperial Era. Crafted from white glazed porcelain, without the Rococo cartouche in the center. This element, which characterizes this tableware, is absent in this openwork version of the plates. 

The decor is complemented by colorful floral bouquets and a finely crafted gold vine leaf border, which gives the piece a festive and representative appearance. The reverse side features the classic KPM marks: the underglaze blue scepter mark and the red imperial orb mark, with dating. Of particular note is the owner's monogram "WR" for Wilhelm Rex, which underscores the personal connection to Emperor Wilhelm II.

Dimensions and Condition

With a diameter of 22.5 cm and in good condition (one scratch in the center), this dessert plate combines royal provenance, artistic 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 tableware 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 custom-made item for the emperor: the shape was commercially available. The difference lay in the painting. Although the Berlin floral bouquets were adopted, they were modified in the style of the "third Rococo," reduced in color to monochrome iron red, and supplemented with a cartouche featuring the Prussian eagle.

Interestingly, this painting also entered 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 sets. Many pieces could be ordered in several sizes – sometimes in up to eight variations. The assortment included, in addition to plates, platters, and bowls, also jelly cups, bouillon pots, and a variety of "compote bowls". The latter, in particular, provide insight into the culinary culture of the Imperial Era, which knew a great variety of dishes and serving forms.