KPM “Neuosier” porcelain bowl from the collection of Emperor Wilhelm II.

This small bowl from a “Neuosier” Berlin tableware set for Emperor Wilhelm II., dated 1909, comes from the renowned Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin (KPM) and is among the most artistically crafted pieces from the Imperial era. Made of white glazed porcelain, the bouillon cup 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 decoration is complemented by colorful floral bouquets, a finely crafted golden grape-leaf border, as well as exquisitely crafted handles and three-dimensionally modeled flowers and buds, which lend the piece exceptional depth and craftsmanship. On the reverse side are the classic KPM marks: the underglaze blue scepter mark and the red imperial orb mark. In addition, the bouillon cup bears the blue monogram “WR” – Wilhelm Rex beneath the royal crown, indicating its direct connection to the Prussian court.

Dimensions and condition

With its diameter of 11 cm and height of 4 cm, and in very good condition, this bowl combines royal provenance, fine craftsmanship, and historical significance. A true 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 Emperor Wilhelm II.’s court. The Emperor introduced a uniform porcelain style for all palaces. In the mid-1890s, the Imperial Court Marshal’s Office placed an initial major order with the KPM. However, “Neuosier” was not an exclusive custom design for the Emperor: the shape was commercially available. The difference lay in the decoration. Although the Berlin floral bouquets were retained, they were adapted to the “Third Rococo” style, reduced to monochrome iron red, and complemented by a cartouche featuring the Prussian eagle.

Interestingly, this decoration was also available commercially—albeit without the eagle. The King of Italy even had the tableware produced with the House of 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 items could be ordered in several sizes—sometimes in up to eight variants. In addition to plates, platters, and bowls, the range included gelatin cups, bouillon cups, and a wide variety of “compote bowls”. The latter, in particular, offer insight into the dining culture of the Imperial era, which featured a great diversity of dishes and serving styles.