Imperial Porcelain Manufactory, St Petersburg - A porcelain dinner plate from the 'Raphael Service'
Period of Alexander III, dated 1891
the centre decorated with a grisaille figure of Justice against a red ground within a hexagonal frame, the border with classical-style friezes with three red ground roundels, three cream ground mythical beasts interjected amongst six stylized and beaded panels enriched with foliate motifs, the reverse a gilt foot rim, gilt crowned monogram of Alexander III and the date, 24cm diameter

Footnote: The Raphael Service stands as a remarkable testament to the opulence and grandeur of the Russian Royal family in the latter part of the 19th century. This commission was nothing short of spectacular - the largest, most expensive, and most imposing undertaking the Imperial Porcelain factory had undertaken. It was destined for use in the prestigious Tsarskoye Selo, and its ceremonial service encompassed an astounding 50-place settings. The meticulous work on this extraordinary service spanned two decades, culminating in its completion in the year 1903. In 1904, the service was granted a place of honour in the Anichkov Palace, following the request of Tsarina Maria Fedorovna.

The design for this service was the brainchild of the manufactory director, Leonhard Schaufelberger (1839 - 94), who planned it under the personal guidance and patronage of Tsar Alexander III himself. The inspiration for its opulent décor was drawn from the frescoes of the artist Raphael, adorning the Loggia of the Vatican. It's worth noting that Giacomo Quarenghi also sought inspiration from these very same frescoes for his decorative work on the Winter Palace in 1793.

Provenance: Ivor Southorn Collection.

Condition Report

Good condition with no damage or repair. One slight scratch through the clothes around the figure's legs and a small brown scratch to the white ground. Some very small areas of gilt wear to the border. Factory grinding to the original under-glaze mark, which has now been painted over with the monogram.

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