KPM Berlin 1918-1988 Book: Collector Guide
By Königliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin - KPM Berlin | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: Product Reviews
Tim D. Gronert's three-volume study covers KPM Berlin's modern porcelain era. Learn what it offers and who should buy it.
Quick answer
Tim D. Gronert's three-volume set is the definitive reference for KPM Berlin's 1918–1988 era, ideal for serious collectors and researchers.
Why this book matters
Most porcelain books focus on earlier centuries, leaving the modern KPM period underexplored. Gronert's research fills that gap with a detailed account of the years when KPM was officially 'Staatliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin'.
The three-volume structure lets you dive into specific decades or themes without juggling a single unwieldy text. This is practical for collectors who want to verify marks, styles, or factory history.
What the set covers
The work spans 1918 to 1988, covering design evolution, production changes, and the historical context that shaped KPM's modern output. It is not a simple picture book; it is a scholarly reference built on more than ten years of research.
Because the text is dense, it suits readers who want depth over a quick overview. If you need a light introduction, a shorter guide might be easier to start with.
Trade-offs to consider
The set's encyclopedic approach means it is heavy on detail and may be more than a casual buyer needs. It also carries a premium price, reflecting its academic quality and three-volume format.
If you focus on a single decade within 1918–1988, you still get the full set, which is useful for cross-referencing but may feel like more than you planned to spend.
Decision rules
- If you collect KPM pieces from 1918–1988: Buy this set. It gives you the historical and design background to understand and date your pieces.
- If you are a researcher or dealer: The three-volume depth and scholarly detail make it a worthwhile investment for accurate attribution and provenance work. Verify the publication details before buying to ensure you get the complete three-volume edition.
- If you want a casual overview: Skip it for now. A simpler, shorter guide will be easier to digest and less expensive.
Product facts
- Porzellan der KPM Berlin 1918-1988 Tim D. Gronert: Published by Deutscher Kunstverlag, this three-volume work by Tim D. Gronert is the result of over ten years of research into KPM Berlin's modern production from 1918 to 1988. You get a rigorously researched reference that covers the full official 'Staatliche Porzellan-Manufaktur Berlin' period, making it a reliable source for identification and historical context.
Porzellan der KPM Berlin 1918-1988 Tim D. Gronert
Who should buy this?
Best for
- Serious KPM collectors focusing on the 1918–1988 era
- Researchers and dealers needing authoritative historical detail
Not for
- Casual readers or new collectors wanting a quick introduction
