A Group of five Kuznetsov ceramic plates for the Islamic market, Volkhov, Russia, late 19th Century

of shallow round form, decorated alternately with ikat-inspired designs and colourful swirling bands, all with impressed mark of the Kuznetsov Factory in Volkhov

All in general good condition, some slight abrasion along external rim and to foot, slight scratches and knicks to surface, as viewed.
"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."

This set of plates inspired by ikat textiles demonstrates the breadth of influence of Islamic works of art throughout different artistic formats and distant geographical zones. The term ikat, from the Malay-Indonesian term mangikat, "to bind, knot or wind around", involves tying and dyeing sections of the yarn in a pre-determined, colourful sequence before weaving.

The Kutznetsov factory in Volkhov, a Georgian settlement near Novgorod in Russia, produced faience ware for export to the Central Asian market. Many designs were inspired by ikat designs of Uzbekistan, particularly that known as abrnakshi (ikat colour play) (Kalter and Pavaloi 1997, p.224). Such textiles are marked by their bright colour combinations and the vertical emphasis of their patterns. For a further study of ikat in Uzbekistan, see ibid., pp.211-262.