Two Porcelain Scent Bottles, Popov Manufactory, Gorbunovo, mid 19th century

both in the Neo-Rococo taste, the larger moulded with scrolls and shell forms, painted on one side with a hunting scene in sepia tones, the other with a basket of flowers on a shelf, all on a black ground, the slip-on stopper with conforming decoration; the second an angular, shield-like form, one side painted with an Italianate landscape surrounded by gilt scrolls, the other with flowers, all on a bright blue ground, the slip-on stopper with conforming decoration, both with underglaze blue factory mark

both in very good condition, brightly coloured and attractive; some small rubbing to gilding, particularly around the top of the taller flacon and to some corners
"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 complex shapes and profuse ornament are typical of the florid ornament of the Neo-Rococo taste popular in Russia in the mid-19th century. The bright 'Popov Blue' and rare black glazes showcase the unusually rich range of colours that the chemists of the manufactory's glaze workshop, the first established in Russia, were able to produce. See T. Mozzhukina, "Farfor zavoda Popova," in Russkii farfor: 250 let, Moscow, 1995, pp. 28-33.