Set of 6 Vintage Meissen Blue Onion Butter Pats, Cobalt Porcelain

A charming set of six vintage Meissen Blue Onion butter pats, beautifully decorated in the iconic cobalt blue underglaze pattern with elegant scalloped rims. Delicate in scale yet rich in detail, these petite porcelain dishes embody one of the most celebrated and enduring designs in European porcelain.

The Blue Onion pattern (Zwiebelmuster) is one of the most recognizable porcelain designs ever created. First introduced by the Meissen porcelain manufactory in the eighteenth century, it became synonymous with exceptional craftsmanship and timeless table elegance. Although commonly known as “Blue Onion,” the decoration actually depicts stylized peaches, pomegranates, bamboo, and flowering plants inspired by early Asian export porcelains, giving the pattern its distinctive character.

Butter pats were once an essential element of a properly appointed table, providing each guest with an individual dish for butter before the era of wrapped portions. Today they have become one of the most desirable categories among collectors of historic tableware. Their small scale and versatility have given them new life as salt cellars, tasting dishes, jewelry trays, sauce dishes, tea bag rests, and decorative accents for beautifully layered tables.

This matching set offers the opportunity to own authentic Meissen porcelain in one of the world’s most enduring patterns. Whether displayed within a porcelain collection or incorporated into an elegantly curated table, these pieces celebrate the extraordinary legacy of one of Germany’s most important porcelain manufacturers.

Marked with the Meissen crossed swords underglaze mark. Please refer to the photographs for details.

Good vintage condition with wear consistent with age and use. Minor signs of age and light surface wear may be present. Please review all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.

Details

• 1stDibs reference: LU10969251002682
• Period: Mid-20th Century
• Date: 1960
• Origin: Germany
• Materials: Porcelain
• Techniques: Glazed
• Style: Rococo Revival
• Dimensions: H .2 × W 3.25 × D 3.25 IN
• Condition: GOOD