A soviet porcelain teaset, State Porcelain Manufactory, 1923

the painted decoration after a design by Sergei Chekhonin, comprising: a teapot, a covered milk-jug, a covered sugar-bowl and four teacups, all finely painted with exotic flowers and fruits, with green manufactory mark and black jubilee Narkompros mark

The handle for the coffee-pot lid has possibly been restored, there is evidence of overpainting. Overpainting also to the handle for the sugar bowl lid. Very minor flecks of paintwork missing but in overall good condition.
"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 creation of post-revolutionary porcelain is mainly connected with the name of Sergei Chekhonin (1878-1936), who was appointed director of the artistic side of production of State Porcelain Manufactory. He had been well-known as a book-designer, as a master of miniature enamel decoration and as the creator of ceramic wall plaques and plates. Chekhonin developed the first samples of propaganda porcelain and china, for example, a plate Blessed Be Free Labour, dishes The Coat of Arms of Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic with Flowers, Famine. His refined graphic compositions, delicate in their colouring were based on decorative and ornamental stylisation of Russian Empire motifs. Under the Soviet government these compositions also took up revolutionary symbols and slogans, developing into the so-called Soviet Empire style.