KPM Neuosier Teapot by Emperor Wilhelm II. – Imperial Porcelain from 1919

This "Neuosier" teapot from an imperial service for Wilhelm II., dated 1919, comes from the historic Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin (KPM) and is among the most artistically designed pieces from the Imperial era. Made of white glazed porcelain, the teapot features a Rococo cartouche in iron red with the Prussian eagle and the monogram "FR" – Friedrich Rex beneath the royal crown. This motif refers directly 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 what is known as "war china", identifiable by the black cross on the base of the pot. This means that this piece is likely one of the last porcelain objects made for Wilhelm II. – an extraordinary detail for collectors and museums.

The decoration is complemented by colored floral bouquets and a finely crafted golden grape-leaf border, giving the piece a festive and representative appearance. On the back are the classic KPM marks: the underglaze blue scepter mark and the red imperial orb mark. 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 height of 12.5 cm and in very good condition, this teapot combines royal provenance, fine craftsmanship, and historical significance. A real highlight for collectors of KPM porcelain, Imperial-era china, and representative objects from German history.

"Neuosier" and its history

"Neuosier" was the standard china of Wilhelm II.'s court. The Emperor introduced a uniform porcelain for all palaces. In the mid-1890s, the Oberhofmarschallamt placed an initial large order with the 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 floral bouquets were adopted, they were altered 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 the commercial market – albeit without the eagle. The King of Italy even had the service made with the House of Savoy coat of arms.

"Neuosier" table china

In the KPM price lists of 1913, "Neuosier" is listed with 55 individual pieces for the table china and 14 pieces for the coffee and tea china. Many pieces could be ordered in several sizes – in some cases in up to eight variants. In addition to plates, platters, and bowls, the range included gelatin cups, bouillon cups, and a variety of "compote bowls". The latter, in particular, provide insight into the dining culture of the Imperial era, which featured a great variety of dishes and serving styles.