Rosenthal - Maria

"Maria" is by far the best known classic service from Rosenthal. For generations, it was the porcelain for weddings and other festive occasions. The original model for the form "Maria" was a silver teapot with a matching milk jug and sugar bowl from around 1815. These pieces were bought by Privy Councillor Philipp Rosenthal on a visit to England.

The classicized, square base form is framed by a delicate, finely curved pomegranate-relief, showing design-elements of the "Empire" style. Both styles, the severe classicism and the agreeable Empire, the style of the bourgeosie, simultaneously playing an important part with constantly conflicting influences.

"Maria" is a typically English silver form from the early 19th century, which Rosenthal transferred to porcelain in an exquisite style.

Rectangular handles, copied from the ebony and ivory handles of the silver pots, are characteristic of the service "Maria" and the offset square surfaces with their light and shadow play, give this form its unmistakable charm. This service was named after Philipp Rosenthal’s second wife and great love, Maria.

In the Twenties and Thirties, "Maria" was an all-encompassing service with 170 different single items. Today "Maria" is still the most comprehensive table service from Rosenthal. A multitude of special and additional items complement the service and make it a complete gourmet programme. Decorative accessoires such as vases, bowls, candlesticks, napkin rings and much more make "Maria" an ideal gift-collection.