KPM Kaiserzeit Hot Water Pot – "Neuosier" Porcelain with "FR" Cipher

This "Neuosier" hot water pot from an imperial service for Wilhelm II, consisting of a pitcher (dated 1911) and a matching lid (dated 1901), originates from the Royal Porcelain Manufactory Berlin (KPM) and is among the particularly rare and elaborately designed objects of the Kaiserzeit (Imperial Era). Crafted from white glazed porcelain, the pot features intricate decoration in iron red, with an elegant rococo cartouche, the Prussian eagle, and the "FR" cipher for Friedrich Rex beneath the royal crown – a direct reference to Frederick the Great and the Prussian monarchical tradition.

The decor is complemented by colorful flower bouquets and a finely crafted gold vine-leaf border, giving the piece a festive and representative effect. Particularly noteworthy is the owner's monogram "WR" for Wilhelm Rex, which underscores the personal connection to Kaiser Wilhelm II. The underside bears the classic marks of KPM Berlin: the underglaze blue scepter mark and the red imperial orb mark, each with its respective date.

Dimensions and Condition

With a height of approx. 16 cm (incl. lid) and in very good condition, this hot water pot combines royal provenance, artisan 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 tableware for the court of Wilhelm II. The Kaiser introduced a uniform porcelain set for all palaces. In the mid-1890s, the Office of the Lord Chamberlain placed an initial large order with KPM. However, "Neuosier" was not an exclusive custom commission for the Kaiser: the shape was commercially available. The difference lay in the painting. While the Berlin flower bouquets were adopted, they were modified in the style of the "third Rococo," reduced in color to monochrome iron red, and supplemented by a cartouche featuring the Prussian eagle.

Interestingly, this painting was also available commercially – though without the eagle. The King of Italy even had the service produced with the Savoyard coat of arms.

"Neuosier" Tableware

In the 1913 KPM price lists, "Neuosier" is recorded with 55 individual pieces for the dinner service and 14 pieces for the coffee and tea service. Many pieces could be ordered in multiple sizes – sometimes in up to eight variants. In addition to plates, platters, and bowls, the range also included jelly cups, bouillon pots, and a multitude of "compote dishes." The latter, in particular, provide insight into the dining culture of the Imperial era, which featured a great variety of dishes and serving styles.