A RARE PAIR OF GILTBRONZE MOUNTED CUT-CRYSTAL VASES, IMPERIAL GLASS FACTORY, SAINT PETERSBURG, CIRCA 1830 |

the handles decorated with winged figures, resting on a square base

Delorme sale , Paris, 1st March 1984, lot 10

Comparative literature : Arcadi Gaydamak, Russian Empire, Architecture, Decorative and Applied Arts, Interior Decoration, 1800-1830, Moscow-Paris, 2000

The photograph is quite accurate. Good overall condition. On one vase, one edge chip on the crystal base and one handle has to be refixed properly. On the other vase, two edge chips on the crystal base. The gilt-bronzes are in good condition overall, the flat surfaces of the bases are little rubbed as expected.
"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 first manufactory was founded in St. Petersburg in 1735 by William Elmzel, along the Fontanka River banks. In 1774, it was moved to Nazya, a small village near Schlusselburg. Three years later with Elmzel's death, it was seized into perpetual and hereditary possession by Prince G. A. Potemkin, who established it again near St. Petersburg, in the outpost of Ozerki. It was not until 1792 that the company took the name of Imperial Glass Manufactory under the direction of the Treasury. At that time, the factory had nearly two hundred workers.  

During the 19th century, the Imperial Glass Manufactory still played its role as a determinant of fashion and served as an example for the few hundred other private factories in Russia. Technical innovations offered new possibilities for using glass. The crystal technique was introduced in Russia by Yefrem Karamyshev, master artisan at the Imperial Manufactory, after his trip to England from 1783 to 1788. This enabled the more skilled craftsmen to produce larger pieces. They designed short pieces of furniture or fountains, in addition to small candle holders, vases, jars, goblets and light fixtures. The Imperial Manufactory also excelled in colored glass, offering a very rich palette of hues. It produced unique works of exceptional quality that were intended for the Tsar, the Court and the aristocratic St. Petersburg elite.