Station: [6] The Magic of the White Rose

Here you can see a table centerpiece commemorating the White Rose Festival.

On July 13, 1829, the Prussian court celebrated one of its most splendid festivities. The theme was “The Magic of the White Rose.” The occasion was the visit of the Russian imperial family to Berlin and Potsdam. At the same time, the 31st birthday of Empress Alexandra Fyodorovna—who had been born Princess Charlotte of Prussia—was celebrated.

The festival’s theme was taken from the favorite reading material of Frederick William III’s children. It refers to the chivalric novel *The Magic Ring* by Friedrich de la Motte Fouqué, published in 1813. In reference to a character from this novel, Princess Charlotte was known by the pet name Blanche Fleur during her youth.

The opening of the celebration was particularly elaborate. In front of the New Palace in Potsdam, an old-style German jousting tournament was reenacted. There were costumes and a public equestrian display. The princes also took part.

The table centerpiece shown here was presented to Wilhelm I on the 40th anniversary of this celebration. It thus commemorates not only the day itself but also its lasting impact. The statuette depicts the prince in a historicizing knight’s costume. He is portrayed as the leader of the Kurbrandenburg quadrille.

One detail stands out in particular. As was customary at jousting tournaments, Wilhelm wears a scarf from his beloved around his arm. This refers to the future Empress Augusta. This is recognizable by the initial “A.”

The pedestal also commemorates the event. It reads: “To the Hero King Wilhelm on July 13, 1869, in memory of July 13, 1829.”

Thus, this table centerpiece combines festive splendor, family history, and the culture of remembrance in a single object.