RS Prussia Scalloped Shell Nut Dish - Fairy and Cupid/Spiderweb Motif
RS Prussia (Reinhold Schlegelmilch) · Collectibles & Antiques > Fine Porcelain
Era / Decade
Late 1890s to Early 1900s (Victorian/Edwardian Era)
Material
Fine porcelain (bone china-grade) with transferware decal, hand-painted accents, and stippled gold-gilt rim.
Condition
Very Good. The porcelain surface is clean with vibrant colors; however, there is notable wear and fading/thinning to the gold gilt around the scalloped edges.
Demand Level
Niche. Highly sought after by RS Prussia collectors and Victorian fairy art enthusiasts, but a slow mover for general buyers.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$45.00 (Low) - $75.00 (Mid) - $120.00 (High)
Estimated Retail Value
$100.00 - $150.00 (comparable antique shop pricing)
Comparable Sales
Similar small RS Prussia dishes with floral patterns typically sell for $30-$50. Rare figural patterns (fairies, portraits) command a premium, frequently reaching $80-$130 depending on condition.
Description
Exquisite antique RS Prussia porcelain dish featuring a rare ethereal motif of a fairy sitting on a spiderweb with a small winged cupid. The dish is shaped like a natural sea shell with deep scalloped edges. It features a lush floral border of pink blossoms and green leaves against a soft blue sky background. The rim is decorated with a delicate stippled gold finish. Dimensions are approximately 5-6 inches in diameter, typically used as a nut or candy dish.
Key Features
Rare 'Fairy and Cupid' lithograph; highly collectible Reinhold Schlegelmilch mark (assuming Red Star mark on bottom); desirable shell shape; Art Nouveau influence.
Authenticity Indicators
Distinctive thin 'eggshell' porcelain common to RS Prussia; characteristic scalloped mold; specific transferware style. Confidence: High (pending verification of the Red Star mark on bottom).
Flaws to Note
Significant wear to the gold gilding on the high points of the scalloped rim; minor utensil marks or shelf wear on the underside. No visible chips or cracks.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay or Etsy. These platforms cater to collectors tracking specific keywords and those searching for Victorian fairy/nursery decor.
Selling Tips
Photograph the bottom mark clearly. Use keywords like 'RS Prussia', 'Reinhold Schlegelmilch', 'Red Star', 'Victorian Fairy', and 'Art Nouveau'. Pack with extreme care using double-boxing method to prevent transit damage.