Object Description
Rare and impressive antique German porcelain tea and coffee set by KPM
German, c. 1830
Smallest (milk jug): Height 9cm, width 11cm, depth 6cm
Largest (teapot): Height 18cm, width 21cm, depth 9cm
Created around 1830 by the Royal Porcelain Factory of Berlin (KPM), this rare and impressive tea and coffee service reflects the sophistication and innovation of early 19th century European porcelain. The striking octagonal shapes and illusionistic painted decoration signal a deliberate departure from the ornate curves of the Rococo, embracing instead the clarity, order, and restraint of the Neoclassical movement.
During the late 18th century, objects decorated with micro-mosaic and pietra dura became highly sought after in Germany, brought back from Italy by Grand Tour travellers. This enthusiasm was further encouraged by Frederick the Great, King of Prussia from 1740 to 1786, whose extensive collection of antiquities and decorative works helped popularise these classical motifs. By the early 19th century, KPM responded to this fashion with porcelain designs that convincingly echoed the appearance of both micro-mosaic and pietra dura, achieving remarkable technical and artistic results. The present service stands among the most accomplished examples produced in this style.
The service includes a teapot and cover, a coffee pot and cover, a sugar bowl and cover, a milk jug, and four cups with matching saucers. Each component is formed in the same distinctive octagonal shape and richly embellished, with generous gilding and finely painted decorative panels throughout.
Painted ornament alternates between trompe l’œil micro-mosaic scenes of exotic birds and imitation pietra dura panels depicting classical urns set against a deep green ground. These are framed by intricately tooled and matted gilding, with further floral motifs rendered in the pietra dura manner. While the overall decorative scheme is classically inspired, the reclining sphinx finials on the covers reflect the period’s fascination with Egyptian Revival, a taste that emerged following Napoleon’s Egyptian campaign of 1798.
All pieces bear the impressed and painted marks of KPM.
Demonstrating exceptional quality in both design and execution, this outstanding service represents the pinnacle of 19th-century European porcelain manufacture and would make a museum-worthy addition to any serious collection.