A soviet porcelain plate, State Porcelain Manufactory, 1930s

the cavetto depicting three women berry-picking outside their village which is visible in the backdrop, bordered by a gilt rim, with green manufactory mark

The gilt worn and rubbed in places, consistent with age and use. There are surface scratches to the paint and a speck of discolouration to the green tree background.
"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 composition and palette found on this plate is reminiscent of designs by Kuzma Petrov-Vodkin (1878-1939). He was a talented painter, graphic artist and art historian who in the 1920s was commissioned by the State Porcelain Manufactory to develop sketches and designs for porcelain. His beautiful portraits, still-lives and landscapes are amongst the most recognisable images on soviet porcelain.

For a plate decorated after a design by Petrov-Vodkin, please see K.A. Markov, Soviet Decorative Art, 1974, Moscow: Sovetskiy Khudozhnik, ill. 62 (titled Krestyanka za Rabotoi, 1921). For further information on the artist, please see L. Andreeva, Soviet Porcelain 1920-1930, Moscow, 1975, pp. 116, 211.