Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur (KPM)
Queen Louise
c. 1900

About the Item

KPM Porcelain "Queen Louise" c. late 19th century Original Hand-Painted Porcelain Signed "R. Dittrich" Since 250 years, the royal sceptre brand stands for finest porcelain that fascinates people all over the world – very often over several generations. In the words MADE TO STAY KPM expresses its ambition to maintain its tradition, to create persistent values, and set epoch-making design trends. Since it was founded by Frederick the Great, in 1763, the Royal Porcelain Manufactory Berlin stands for hand-crafted luxury, trend-setting design, and highest quality standards. In its Berlin-based workshops, the manufactory produces exclusive porcelain of timeless aesthetics in the best tradition of European craftsmanship. Works from KPM have been included in renowned museums and international design collections. They have always been coveted items among connoisseurs and collectors around the world. Before a piece of porcelain is stamped with the sceptre-shaped brand in cobalt blue it has to undergo numerous production steps and the most stringent quality controls. All decorations are hand-painted. The artistic freedom is what makes every masterpiece a unique piece of art. Individualisations and special orders have a long-standing tradition at KPM Berlin and are an expression of the highest level of craftsmanship. The range of possibilities is as great as the fantasy of our customers. Conscious of its 250-year old history and tradition, the Royal Porcelain Manufactory Berlin will continue to follow new paths in the future and play a leading role in the art of porcelain.

Creator:
Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur (KPM) (German)
Creation Year:
c. 1900
Dimensions:
Height: 10 in (25.4 cm)Width: 8 in (20.32 cm)Depth: 1 in (2.54 cm)
Medium:
Oil,Porcelain
Movement & Style:
Victorian
Period:
Late 19th Century
Condition:
Gallery Location:
Missouri, MO
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU74733907872
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Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur (KPM)

Known by just KPM, the Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur company has been synonymous with exquisite porcelain works fit for nobility and royalty for over 200 years. KPM porcelain plates, centerpieces and sculptures are painstakingly formed through ages-old techniques and meticulously painted by hand, producing one-of-a-kind quality.

KPM began in Berlin in 1763, founded by King Frederick II of Prussia, after two other entrepreneurs had been unsuccessful in establishing porcelain manufacturing companies in Germany. In 1878, KPM developed a relationship with the Chemical-Technical Research Institute and its director, Hermann Seger. This partnership gave KPM early access to advances in porcelain production and coloration.

KPM flourished under the banner of royal ownership until 1918, when it became a state-run entity after the monarchy was disbanded following Germany’s loss in World War I. With the rise of the Nazi Party in the 1930s, many of the company’s top designers and directors were dismissed, denied exhibitions or forced to flee Germany due to Jewish heritage or loyalty to Jewish colleagues. In 1943, an Allied bombing raid destroyed the KPM factory, and the company was not reestablished until after the war.

KPM reopened in Franconia and began producing porcelain wares. Some staff also worked on reconstructing the historic KPM site in Berlin. In 1957, manufacturing returned to the original company premises.

KPM rebounded over the next few decades. In 2006, in a step to privatize companies throughout the country, German financier Jörg Woltmann bought the organization.

Since its privatization, the company has opened many galleries and shops around Germany and has worked in collaboration with notable brands like Bottega Veneta and Bugatti motor company in recent years.

Although rooted in the Rococo style, KPM has adapted its craft to meet the current trends, all while maintaining the highest levels of excellence throughout its centuries of operation. It continues to produce lavish, elegant porcelain works for elite clientele the world over.

On 1stDibs, browse a vast selection of Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur serveware, decorative objects, lighting and more.