Rare Antique Schlottenhof Royal Bavaria Crown Lion Porcelain Tureen with Grape Knob (Bavaria, 1890s)

Perhaps one of the most intricate tureens we’ve ever found, this piece was produced during late 1890s, by Porzellanfabrik Schlottenhof, Royal Crown Bavaria. With embossed details such as the grape knob on the lid, the lace like pattern on the body and foot, and grape with a wine leaf on one the side, adorned with some finely hand painted spring flowers, this is the sort of porcelain piece that not only stood the test of time, but almost seems immortal.

What’s truly special about this piece, is that it was produced during a very limited period of time, from 1895 when the factory was opened in Schlottenhof, when the company first used that particular mark stamped on the bottom of this piece.

Initially, a tureen was called a pot à oille - a Catalan-Provencal soup - and the actual word came into use during late 17th century France, but there’s a second explanation for its etymology, related to the earlier word terrine, a borrowing from the French for ‘a large, circular, earthenware dish’.

But the real history of a tureen is tracked back to the communal bowl, that during the reign of Louis XIV was developed from a practical covered serving vessel into one of the most intricate ornate centerpieces at any formal dinner table.

During that age of the "Sun King”, an old practice of dressing the dinner table with every dish at once was replaced by a new practice of serving separate courses during meal time, so each entrée entering the dining room was filled with an air of ceremony. The “star” of every meal, regardless whether you were the King of France or a peasant, was the soup, that was served from a tureen on a platter, opening the dinner festivities.

For a 100+ years piece, the tureen is in spectacular condition, I mean, it looks like it was made yesterday, and it would, more than anything be an investment piece due to its scarcity on the market, it’s elaborate design and the mere fact that it has survived till today.

So, regardless whether you actually use it for serving dinner or just keep it in an open shelf just for display, this tureen will definitely elevate your space and would make for a heirloom for you to pass onto generations.

Product specifications

Country of manufacture — Bavaria

Condition —Excellent — This vintage/antique piece is in near original condition. It may show minimal traces of use.

Restoration and Damage Details — Patina consistent with age and use.

Material — Porcelain

Size — 15 cm H x 17 cm Ø