This form seems to have been a favourite made by multiple Russian Private Factories. It is half of a pair of Turkish man and woman cups. Like last week’s, this cup began its history with a lid.
Turkey seems to have fascinated Russia as well as Europe and England in the 19th century. The Turkish theme appears again and again in porcelain of the period.
This type of pink lustre decoration dates to the 1820s. The fact that it was also popular in Staffordshire at the same time makes me think there must either have been a publicized breakthrough in colour production or a common supplier stocking different factories around Europe. I believe the colour itself is derived from gold.
This example is probably from one of the less prominent makers. It lacks the high standards of the major factories. In the Gardner version of this cup for instance, the ‘pearls’ were individually made and applied to the surface. Here, they are moulded in. Much less labour but less dimensional also. The modelling in general is less crisp and well defined. A flat bottom. Several minor flaws. Has to be one of the lesser makers.
Still, it’s a beautiful cup. Just not one that was ever destined for the imperial court. Very unusual to see it in this finish as most examples are enamel painted. One more rare survivor.
10.1 cm in height.
