Rosenthal Artist Plate No. 9 – Hildegard Knef (1976)
Rosenthal Gallery, Edition 9/5000/0551. Signed and inscribed „Einem geschenkten Gaul blickt man nicht hinter die Kiemen“.
In 1976, Hildegard Knef designed Artist Plate No. 9 for Rosenthal's limited art edition. Inspired by her 1970 autobiography "Der Geschenkte Gaul" (Translation: A gift horse) the plate bears the striking inscription "A gift horse is not worth looking behind its gills."
This tongue-in-cheek play on words combines humor, linguistic individuality, and the artist's zeitgeist. Like all plates in the Rosenthal Artist Edition, this piece combines the manufactory's high-quality porcelain tradition with the personal touch of an outstanding personality.
The Rosenthal artist plate by Hildegard Knef is a special collector's item, combining porcelain art with the distinctive expressiveness and humor of one of the most important German artists of the 20th century.
ART FLAGEY Berlin presents the plate by Hildegard Knef as part of its selection of limited edition artist plates by Rosenthal.
About the artist: Hildegard Knef
Hildegard Knef (1925–2002) was an actress, singer, and author—one of the most versatile German artists of the 20th century. She became internationally known through her film roles in post-war Germany and her stage appearances in Europe and the USA.
Her distinctive, smoky voice also made her famous as a chanson singer. Many of her songs have autobiographical elements and reflect her personality.
Hildegard Knef stood for modernity, independence, and a clear artistic stance. With her contribution to the Rosenthal Art Edition, she brought a personal, humorous touch that connects her own story with the tradition of porcelain art in a unique way.