Ilmenau Sugar Dish Appraisal

Ilmenau Octagonal Porcelain Sugar Bowl (Base)

The item is identified as the base of a porcelain vessel, likely a sugar bowl or small compote, given the octagonal faceting visible on the exterior sides and the provided context. The material is fine white porcelain with a smooth, glossy glaze. Its octagonal shape is distinct, suggesting a deliberate design choice that adds a decorative几何 dimension to the piece. The interior bottom of the vessel clearly displays the manufacturer's mark in green, indicating it was produced by 'JLMENAU' (presumably Ilmenau porcelain) and stating 'Made in German Democratic Republic'. This manufacturing detail situates the production period specifically to between 1949 and 1990, when the German Democratic Republic (East Germany) existed. The mark features a crown above 'ILMENAU', with a banner below containing additional text, possibly 'Graf von Henneberg' and '1777' or '1760', which often refers to the factory's historical foundation or a specific line. There are some signs of wear on the base, including minor dirt or residue accumulation along the rim and possibly some faint surface scratches consistent with age and use. The footrim is unglazed, as is typical, and appears clean but with minor scuffs. Given the octagonal design and clear maker's mark indicating a specific historical period, it represents a functional and collectible piece of East German porcelain. The quality appears consistent with mass-produced but well-made porcelain of the era, focusing on durability and aesthetic appeal.