Antique Kpm Berlin, Germany, Porcelain Hand-painted Cup & Saucer, C. 1800

This antique and rare hand-painted porcelain cup and saucer were created by KPM, Berlin, in the early 19th century. The deep burgundy body of the cup is adorned with intricate gold patterns, including gold rays and roses that enhance its luxurious appearance. The ribbon inscription reads "Alles nach Wunsch" ("Everything as you wish"). The rim and interior of the cup are gilded, giving it a rich, glowing finish. A thin white beaded border adds sophistication, separating the gold from the burgundy. The matching saucer is also gilded, decorated with small stars and a similar beaded border. A delicate gold handle, resembling a snake’s head, completes the elegant design.
Overall, this piece exemplifies the high-quality, ornate style characteristic of prestigious porcelain produced by KPM.
KPM, or Königliche Porzellan Manufaktur (Royal Porcelain Factory), is Berlin’s oldest porcelain factory and Germany’s second oldest. Founded in 1763, it continues to produce porcelain to this day. King Frederick II, also known as Frederick the Great, played an active role in the factory’s development and became its owner. He invested large sums of money into the factory and renamed it the Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin ("Berlin Royal Porcelain Manufactory"). He also gave the factory its iconic emblem: his royal scepter.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, KPM specialized in producing porcelain dinner services, figurines, painted plaques, vases, and more. They were particularly associated with the popular Rococo style of the mid-18th century, which was later replaced by the more austere Neoclassicism of the early 19th century. Antique KPM porcelain from these periods is highly collectible and sought after today.
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, KPM was one of Europe’s most consistently successful ceramics enterprises. It enjoyed financial backing from both the Prussian crown and the unified German state. Because of its close associations with the state, the name KPM—along with Meissen—became synonymous with German porcelain, similar to Sèvres in France, Royal Worcester in England, and Royal Vienna in Austria. KPM was a key player in the European decorative arts of the 19th century and was one of the most prolific producers of luxury porcelain during this time.
Dimensions: Cup height 11.2 cm, top diameter 9 cm, width 11.5 cm. Saucer diameter 16 cm. Total weight 424 grams.
Condition: Loss of gilding inside the cup (see photos), while the exterior remains in perfect condition, with intact gilding and paint. The saucer shows a small loss of gilding.
Please study the accompanying photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of this description. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. Please note that shipping costs include labor, packaging, and postage.