Antique dessert plate from the Neuosier service for Emperor Wilhelm II. (KPM Berlin, 1904)

This dessert plate from a "Neuosier tableware service Berlin" for Emperor Wilhelm II., dated 1904, comes from the renowned Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin (KPM) and is among the most artistically designed pieces from the Imperial era. Made of white glazed porcelain, without the Rococo cartouche in the center. This pierced design of the plate lacks this element that distinguishes this tableware. 

The decoration is complemented by colored flower bouquets as well as a finely crafted golden vine border, which gives the piece a festive and representative appearance. On the back, the classic KPM marks can be found: 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 underscores the personal connection to Emperor Wilhelm II.

Dimensions and condition

With a diameter of 22.5 cm and in good condition (a scratch in the center), this dessert plate combines royal provenance, artistic craftsmanship, and historical significance. A real highlight for collectors of KPM porcelain, Imperial-era tableware, and representative objects from German history.

"Neuosier" and its history

"Neuosier" was the standard tableware of Wilhelm II.'s court. The Emperor introduced uniform porcelain for all palaces. In the mid-1890s, the Oberhofmarschallamt placed an initial large order with KPM. However, "Neuosier" was not an exclusive custom-made design 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", reduced in color to monochrome iron red, and complemented by a cartouche with the Prussian eagle.

Interestingly, this decoration also entered commercial production – although without the eagle. The King of Italy even had the service made with the Savoy coat of arms.

"Neuosier" tableware

In the KPM price lists of 1913, "Neuosier" is listed with 55 individual pieces for tableware and 14 pieces for coffee and tea sets. Many pieces could be ordered in several sizes – in up to eight variants in some cases. In addition to plates, platters, and bowls, the range included aspic cups, bouillon cups, 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 styles.