Description

This bread plate from a "Neuosier dinner service - Berlin" for Emperor Wilhelm II, dated 1912, comes from the traditional Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin (KPM) and is one of the most artistically designed pieces of the Imperial Era. Crafted from white glazed porcelain, the plate features a Rococo cartouche executed in iron-red with the Prussian eagle and the monogram "FR" - Friedrich Rex under the royal crown. This motif directly refers to Frederick the Great and the Prussian monarchical tradition.

The decor is complemented by colorful floral bouquets and a finely crafted golden vine 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, with dating. Particularly noteworthy is the owner's monogram "WR" for Wilhelm Rex, which emphasizes the personal connection to Emperor Wilhelm II.

Dimensions and Condition

With a diameter of 21.5 cm and in good condition (slightly rubbed), this bread plate combines royal provenance, craftsmanship 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 palaces. In the mid-1890s, the Oberhofmarschallamt placed a first large 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 monochromatic iron-red, and supplemented by a cartouche with the Prussian eagle.

It is interesting to note that this painting also found its way into commerce – but 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 pieces could be ordered in several sizes – sometimes in up to eight variants. The assortment included, in addition to plates, platters, and bowls, also jelly cups, bouillon pots, and a variety of "compote bowls". Especially the latter provide insight into the eating culture of the Imperial Era, which knew a great variety of dishes and serving forms.