A Rare Soviet Porcelain teaset, Zinaida Kobyletskaya, State Porcelain Manufactory, 1930-1931

comprising: a circular tray, a tea pot, a covered creamer, a covered sugar bowl and two cups and saucers, all similarly decorated with scenes of industrial construction and workers, the borders and spouts painted with hammer and sickle, with artist's signature, dated 1930 and 1931, red mark Made in Russia, blue manufactory mark

One cup possibly a period replacement as differs in painted decoration. An unusual and rare set is good condition with only slight wear to the gilding consistent with age.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The February Revolution of 1917 saw the Imperial Porcelain Manufactory handed over to the Soviet Ministry of Trade and Industry, and from June 1918 it became a State enterprise. Turbulent events of the time had laid the foundations for a new chapter in art history, one which witnessed a fundamental break from tradition and introduced entirely new artistic concepts. And thus this period became an important chapter in the life of the State Porcelain Manufactory. The government played a significant role in forging the Factory's agenda for the pieces it produced. The ideology of the proletariat, their slogans, aspirations and victories dominated artistic subject matter. And porcelain, due to its intimate nature and ability to depict day-to-day life, played an important role as propaganda for the new leadership.

It was essential to reflect the new epoch, to capture the poetry and philosophy of the time. The pieces created were characterised by their impulsive rhythm and most importantly their ability to relate to the individual. Scenes of the new working class, the new plants and factories, vividly illustrated the achievements of the Soviets. The new theme was very well executed by a leading painter of the Porcelain Factory, Zinaida Kobiletskaya (1880-1957), whose work often captures this specific movement and expression.  The decoration of this set shows this artist as a true master, conveying the mood of her time by skilfully combining the subject matter, the painting and the form of the objects themselves.