8 June 2016 Russian Art and Photography Auctions
8 June 2016
320. An Imperial Porcelain Plate from the Etruscan Service
IMPERIAL PORCELAIN MANUFACTORY, PERIOD OF NICHOLAS I (1825–1855), CIRCA 1844
3,000-4,000 GBP
Diameter 23 cm.
Related literature: For similar works, see V. V. Znamenov (ed.), Imperatorskiy farforovyi zavod. 1744–1904, St Petersburg, Global View, 2008, pp. 392–399.
The cavetto painted with classicizing figure with antique ornaments in black against a terracotta ground, the border with continuous anthemion chain, with blue Imperial cipher for Nicholas I.
The plates are amongst some of the most famous objects made by the Imperial Porcelain Factory during
the historicism movement and as such, are rare and exceptional collectors’ pieces. Dating from the
1840s, they display the outstanding craftsmanship that had been achieved in Russia by the 1830s and
are an exquisite example of the Etruscan style – one of the first Russian “neo” styles. The decoration
exemplifies the fascination of this époque with antiquity, but instead of directly quoting ancient sources,
the artists re-interpreted the antique fashion in a new way.
Notes on symbols:
* Indicates 5% Import Duty Charge applies.
Ω Indicates 20% Import Duty Charge applies.
§ Indicates Artist's Resale Right applies.
† Indicates Standard VAT scheme applies, and the rate of 20% VAT will be charged on both hammer price and premium.