Rosenthal Helena shape porcelain sauce boat with attached underplate (1935-1936)

Creamy white porcelain gravy/sauce boat with attached underplate and small decorative handles produced by Rosenthal (Selb-Germany) during the 1930s - the shape dates back to 1935-1936 - , in the Helena shape.

Knowing Weimar Germany`s history at the time, we can tell a lot about this piece as well. We know for sure that during early 1930s the country still felt the profound effects of the October 1929 “Black Tuesday” that hit Wall Street, and that the Great Depression led to an unprecedented unemployment rate of almost 6 million (by 1932), from an approximate population of 60 million people. The context was rather grim and there were many shortages, so we can only imagine that a Rosenthal piece at the time was highly valuable and sought after, especially since it emerged a black market where goods were traded for food or rent money and that it was only available for a handful of people that could actually afford such commodity.

At the time, Rosenthal was under Philipp Rosenthal, of Jewish descent, which by the second half of 1934 was already facing hardship and the situation was in Germany was becoming so tense that he lost control of his business and in 1935 was forced to leave the country. So, this piece can be one of the last few produced under the family’s directorate, which makes it particularly valuable, a still standing historical artefact. The family regained control of the business in 1950 when the son of Philipp Rosenthal returned to Germany and managed to take the company to new heights.

With an intense colloidal gold rim on the underplate and the top of the bowl and handles, in excellent condition considering its age, this piece only has some minor fading of the gold, but it definitely has plenty of meals to accompany and a story to tell for generations to come.

Product specifications

Country of manufacture — Germany

Condition —Excellent — This vintage/antique piece is in near original condition.

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

Material — Porcelain

Size — 22 cm L x 14 cm l x 9 cm H