WMF, Rosenthal - Serving tray - Silverplated, Porcelain

WMF – Elegant serving basket in silvered metal with a Thomas porcelain insert, made by the Rosenthal group in Germany, circa 1910–1925

Refined German serving basket from the early 20th century, characterized by the harmonious pairing of a radiant silvered metal frame by WMF with a white removable Thomas porcelain bowl, produced while Thomas was already part of the Rosenthal group during the period to which the object is attributed.

The frame features a finely pierced band with foliate branches and small berries, reconcilable with a stylized laurel motif. Thin parallel moldings frame the decoration, giving rhythm and balance to the composition. The arched handle repeats the same vegetal elements on the shoulders, creating a pleasant continuity with the body of the basket.

The white porcelain provides an especially effective backdrop for the pierced design: the contrast between the two materials enhances every leaf and gives the piece an understated, bright elegance.

Manufactures and dating

The frame bears the characteristic WMF punch with ostrich, accompanied by the indications “OX” and “I/O,” referring respectively to the original oxidized finish and to silvering. The mark’s typology allows for an indicative dating around 1910–1925.

The bottom of the porcelain bears the Thomas, Germany mark in the shield variant belonging to early 20th-century production. The chronologies of the two marks are compatible.

An element of particular interest is the historical link with Rosenthal, which in 1908 acquired majority participation in the Thomas manufactory. Thomas continued to operate under its own name: in the period proposed for this basket, Thomas production was thus already integrated into the Rosenthal group. The insert should therefore be identified as Thomas porcelain from the Rosenthal period, while retaining its own factory mark.

Both manufactories are German: WMF, Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik, was based in Geislingen, while Thomas produced porcelains in Marktredwitz, Bavaria.

An insert with a precise form

The bowl features a contoured base with a circular step that precisely links to the lower edge of the frame. The diameter and side profile likewise correspond to the metal structure, forming a well-proportioned and cohesive whole.

These characteristics suggest that the Thomas insert is original to the WMF frame and testify to the particular care taken in pairing the two materials.

Condition

The porcelain is in excellent condition, with a glossy, bright surface, free of chips, cracks, scratches, or signs of use on the interior. The interior’s preservation is such as to suggest the piece was used very little or kept mainly as an exhibit item.

The frame has been cleaned and polished and today presents a particularly bright surface. No visible losses of the silvering are detected; a small superficial scratch on one side is noted, along with slight signs of use.

Visible welds are present at the handle attachments, attributable to repair or reinforcement work. The handle is currently fixed, not swiveling, and is firmly secured.

Dimensions

Overall height with handle: 20 cm
Maximum width at the handle: 22 cm
Porcelain bowl diameter: 20.5 cm
Bowl height: 7.5 cm
Height of the metal frame: 5 cm
An elegant early 20th-century table piece that brings together WMF’s decorative frame and Thomas porcelain from the Rosenthal period. Appreciable for the balance of proportions, the pierced work, and the excellent condition of the bowl, it is suitable for both a refined table setting and for display in a collection of silverware and decorative arts.

The photographs are an integral part of the description.

Shipping:
It will be packed with protective materials. It will be shipped to the home address or to the nearest pickup point.