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Russian art

Porcelain dish from the Kuznetsov factory with a scene of calling the hero Mikula Selyaninovich. Early 20th century
Porcelain dish from the Kuznetsov factory with a scene of calling the hero Mikula Selyaninovich. Early 20th century
A large porcelain decorative plate with a genre scene made in the technique of polychrome painting, located in the mirror of the plate and a stylized Russian-style leaf ornament along the flat side of the dish. The picturesque painting of the plate is made by hand. On the relief edge of the side of the plate, gold and blue decorative stripes are applied. Such decorative decoration and a flat side give the plate the appearance of a genre picture, framed in a beautiful painted frame. The reverse side of the plate is decorated along its side with a golden cover and an inscription with the name of the painting plot. The genre scene in the center of the plate is made to the motive of the Russian epic Mikula Selyaninovich, as evidenced by the inscription on the bottom of the dish - the epic Mikula Selyaninovich. The episode of the summoning of Mikula Selyaninovich by the bogatyr Volga Svyatoslavich to collect taxes is depicted. Typical is the image of the epic hero not in elegant boots, but in simple peasant bast shoes. Some researchers of the Russian epic interpret this scene as a meeting of the hunter god with the plowman god. This interpretation is due to the fact that Mikula Selyaninovich in Russian culture personified the god of agriculture. In the lower left part of the genre picture is the signature of the artist-ceramist, presented in the form of a monogram consisting of Latin and Russian capital block letters DB (unknown artist of the Kuznetsov factory). The plate is part of a series of several similar plates decorated on the theme of the Russian folk epic (at least 9 pieces), made in the Russian style in the second half of the 19th century (1870-1880s) at the Tver faience factory of M.S. Kuznetsov. The Tver faience factory was acquired by M.S. Kuznetsov in 1870, which already under the first owner and founder of the factory (the Auerbach family) became famous in Russia for products in the pseudo-Russian style. A series of epic plates from the Tver factory may have been exhibited at the Polytechnic Exhibition of 1889. Production mark of the factory M.S. Kuznetsov in Tver in the form of a small state emblem - a double-headed eagle and the inscription M.S. Kuznetsov Tver province located on the tape. The printed stamp is filled with gold, which testifies to the special purpose of the subject. Russian Empire, Tver province. Factory of M.S. Kuznetsov. 1870-1889 years.Porcelain, hand-painted polychrome, gilding, golden cover. Collection safety. Diameter - 25.5 cm, weight - 668 gr.
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CAUCASIAN SHASHKA WITH GILT SILVER AND BONE DECORATION RUSSIA, 19TH CENTURY
CAUCASIAN SHASHKA WITH GILT SILVER AND BONE DECORATION RUSSIA, 19TH CENTURY
A ceremonial Caucasian shashka executed in the traditions of the North Caucasian arms workshops of the second half of the 19th century. The piece represents a distinguished example of edged weaponry of the Russian Empire, combining martial functionality with refined metal craftsmanship characteristic of Dagestan and related regional centres.The blade is steel, single-edged and moderately curved, with fullers providing both structural strength and lightness. The surface is free of etched ornament, bearing engraving on one side only. Its geometry corresponds to the classical Caucasian shashka type, designed for powerful cutting strokes with extended draw, distinguishing it from European sabres.The hilt is without a guard and features the characteristic “goose-neck” pommel. The grip scales are made of bone and secured with gilt silver mounts. The silver elements are decorated with niello ornament and stylised vegetal motifs, executed in traditional engraving filled with blackened alloy. The contrast between gilt silver, deep niello and light bone creates a striking decorative effect and emphasises the ceremonial nature of the weapon.The scabbard is wooden, leather-covered, and fitted with richly decorated gilt silver mounts. The ornamental system is structured around repeating medallions and stylised vegetal motifs typical of 19th-century Caucasian metalwork. Suspension rings for a sword belt are present. The construction corresponds to the Cossack method of wear adopted after the official inclusion of the shashka into the armament of the Russian Army.The artistic quality of execution, together with the use of gilt silver and bone inlay, suggests a ceremonial or officer’s weapon intended not only for service but also for the display of social rank.Marks: No marks observed on the visible elements.Dimensions: Overall length - 104 cm; Width - 9 cm.Condition: Good. Natural patina to the silver mounts, minor traces of age and light surface scratches to the blade. Decorative elements preserved.Provenance: Private collection.
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