DECANTER FROM THE COTTAGE SERVICE, ONE OF SIX

Creator(s): V. A. Zhukovskii (Designer) , Imperial Glass Manufactory (Manufacturer)

Currently in storage

About this object

In late 1829 or early 1830 the Imperial Glassworks began production of a new service for use at Alexandria, the small summer cottage built by the reigning Emperor Nicholas I (r. 1825-55) for his wife Alexandra Fedorovna at Peterhof, their imperial estate. The service is decorated with the coat of arms used throughout the Alexandria Cottage—a sword within a wreath of white roses and green leaves set against a blue shield above the motto: “For Faith, Tsar and Fatherland” (“Za veru, tsaria, i otechestvo”). They are referred to as the “Cottage Service” as they were only used at this one imperial residence.

The body of the decanter is elaborately cut in a pattern divided into three zones. The uppermost consists of a very finely cut diamond pattern relieved by alternating circles and chevrons of polished glass. Below this is a band of leaves cut and polished into fluid forms. The final, lowest section is cut in a diamond pattern similar to the upper section but much heavier. The neck of the decanter is channeled and embellished by two proper knops. Base is cut in a sunburst pattern. The decanter has no identifying factory marks. The stopper is a later marriage and does not match. It is cut in a daisy pattern and channeled. It is made of glass much clearer than that of 23.50.3.

Object name:

DECANTER FROM THE COTTAGE SERVICE, ONE OF SIX

Made from:

Glass -- enamel -- gilding

Made in:

Saint Petersburg, Russia

Date made:

After 1829

Size:

18.4 cm (7 1/4 in.)

Detailed information for this item

Catalog number:

23.50.3-4

Class:

GLASS

Signature marks:

INSCRIPTION "Za veru tsaria i otechestvo" (For Faith, Tsar and Fatherland) In gilt on blue glass on front of decanter.

Credit line:

Bequest of Marjorie Merriweather Post, 1973