Imperial Rhine Wine Glass of Wilhelm II with Gilded RW Monogram

Court White Wine and Rhine Wine Glass from the German Empire, circa 1900

This elegant Rhine wine glass bears the gilded monogram “RW” (Rex Wilhelm) beneath a royal crown and is one of the rare surviving examples of courtly drinking culture from the German Empire. The colorless glass features a fine gold rim and high-quality gilded decoration and dates to around 1900.

The shape corresponds to a classic white wine or Rhine wine glass, such as those used for Riesling, Mosel wine, Johannisberger, and other premium German white wines. The slightly flared, tulip-shaped bowl enhances the development of aromas and reflects the preferred glass shapes of upscale table culture in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The expertly crafted gilded monogram of Emperor Wilhelm II beneath the imperial crown is particularly noteworthy and indicates that the glass was used as part of a prestigious court service or a similarly refined setting. The combination of finely proportioned shape, clear glass, and elaborate gilding gives the piece an exceptionally elegant appearance.

Dimensions

• Height: 16 cm
• Rim diameter: 8 cm

Condition

• Very well preserved, with minor wear to the gilding

The shape is particularly characteristic of a Rhine wine glass, such as those used for the highly prized Rhine and Mosel wines at court. Emperor Wilhelm II frequently preferred German wines at official occasions and state banquets, especially premium Gewürztraminer from the Rhine and Mosel regions, making it highly likely that this shape was used in a courtly Rhine wine service.

An exceptional collector’s item for enthusiasts of Emperor Wilhelm II, imperial glassware, court glassware, the German Empire, Prussia, Rhine wine glasses, historic tablewares, and Wilhelmina memorabilia.