R.S. Prussia China

R.S. Prussia china, first named Reinhold, was founded in the early 1800s by Reinhold Schelgelmilch in what is now Suhl, Germany. Pieces produced by R.S. Prussia include tea and coffee pots, cups and saucers, platers, creamers, and sugar bowls. Using lithographic transfers, most were decorated with floral paintings or formal portraits with gold embellishments. Their production was also greatly influenced by the Art Nouveau movement.

Between 1895 and 1900, R.S. Prussia's exports to the United States increased exponentially, in part due to the growing popularity of the Art Nouveau movement. It was around this time that R.S. Prussia's china earned a reputation of being among the best made in Europe.

When trends changed to more simple shapes and designs around 1910, their products reflected this. The imagery used for R.S. Prussia's china focused on classical themes and were for the most part simple and traditional. Among the most desirable pieces are their portrait vases featuring cobalt bodies and portraits within a gold frame.

Quick Facts

• Because of their rarity, R.S. Prussia vases and objects with animals or portraits on them are more sought after by collectors
• It was not until 1910 that the company name changed from Reinhold to R.S. Prussia
• When World War I began, the Suhl factory was shut down and workers were relocated