Germany, Imperial. A Set of Two First War Portrait Cups, by KPM

Two individual small coupe shaped green glazed porcelain cups, one featuring a sepia toned portrait of Hindenburg in uniform wearing a medal bar, the other with a sepia toned portrait of Hindenburg in a hat, both are surrounded by gilt wreaths and features an oak leaf border with green dots, the bottom is marked with the red orb, KPM, scepter and iron cross, numbered 105/87, each measuring 95mm (w – inclusive of handle) x 66mm (h), minor wear, in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: KPM (Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur) was created in 1763 and has been led by kings and emperors, providing tableware for every Prussian Kaiser thereafter. The first retail store was opened in Berlin in 1855. In 1918, the monarchy ended, and the company was renamed to Staatliche Porzellan-Manufacktur (State Porcelain Manufactory). From 1919-1932, the company’s designs were largely influenced by New Objectivity, where less is more and patriotic symbols such as the Iron Cross were presented for individuals to show their support for Germany. The company is still active under a sole shareholder and continues to produce art and household items. The mark presenting an Orb with KPM below and a scepter was used until 1917.