A Porcelain Easter Egg, Imperial Porcelain Manufactory, 19th century

the front decorated with a miniature of St. Nikanor holding a candle after a painting by T.A. Neff and signed with Cyrillic initials V.K. within a gilded oval frame, the reverse with a five-point star in a sunburst enclosed in burnished-gilt frame

Slight wear to the gilding and minor scratches apparent on the oval border to the right, UV light reveals tiny re-touches of paint on both sides, but otherwise in overall very 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."

A similar egg with a miniature of St. Nikanor is held in the collection of the State Historical Museum in Moscow. For another example, please see Tamara Kudriavtseva and Harold A. Whitbeck Russian Imperial Easter Eggs, Merrell London, 2001, p.128