8 June 2016 Russian Art and Photography Auctions

8 June 2016

Artist Index / Full Catalogue


AFTER A MODEL BY BORIS VOROBYEV AND A PAINTED DESIGN BY IVAN RIZNICH, LOMONOSOV STATE PORCELAIN MANUFACTORY, LENINGRAD, CIRCA 1953

362. A Porcelain Figurine of Plushkin from Gogol's "Dead Souls"

AFTER A MODEL BY BORIS VOROBYEV AND A PAINTED DESIGN BY IVAN RIZNICH, LOMONOSOV STATE PORCELAIN MANUFACTORY, LENINGRAD, CIRCA 1953


300-500 GBP


Height 14.5 cm.

Related literature: For a similar work, see Yu.A. Traysman, Ode to Joy, Pinakotheke Moscow, 2008, pp. 360–367.

Realistically modelled, gloomily standing in a crooked pose, wearing a brown coat with keys hanging from the belt and valenki, on a circular shaped white base, with a blue manufactory mark, further signed ‘v/sort’ in red.

Gogol’s series depict the époque’s take on one of the most cherished Russian author. Created between 1945–1954, these porcelain figurines of favourite characters not only evoke the familiar literary prototypes but also highlight the pathos of the Stalinist era. Gestures and lively mimicry, along with the colourful palette, enhance the theatricality and distinctiveness achieved by the longstanding tradition of craftsmanship and the imaginations of the leading artists of the time.


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.