A rare pair of porcelain ewers, Imperial Porcelain Manufactory, period of Alexander II (1855-1881)

of baluster form, the spouts formed as bearded masks, the gilt surface burnished with scrolling foliate motifs and painted with Imperial eagles, the stem and handles with painted 'jewels', with impressed mark T.K (Cyrillic) and green Imperial cipher of Alexander II and dated *9 

There are firing cracks to both spouts. One spout with old chips to the left side measuring approx. 1.5 by 1cm. Possibly re-gilded with the gilt motif added at a later stage.
"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 scale and decoration of the ewers suggest they were made as a presention or commemorative piece.  The incised maker's mark 'T.K' can be associated with Timofei Kozlov, sculptor and modeller at the Imperial Porcelain Manufactory during the second half of the 19th century.  A pair of similar form can be found in the collection of the Russian State Museum in St Petersburg.

The specific coat of arms depicted was approved in 1882 and therefore, these were possibly added after the initial manufacture of the ewers, as the mark 'A.II.9' suggests they were made in 1879.