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DECANTER FROM THE COTTAGE SERVICE, ONE OF SIX

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

On view in: Russian Porcelain Room


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, which is a later addition and is not original to the piece, is cut in a tiny diamond pattern surrounded by leaves. It has been broken and repaired.

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:
22.2 cm (8 3/4 in.)

Detailed information for this item

Catalog number:
23.50.9-10
Class:
GLASS
Signature marks:
INSCRIPTION "Za veru, tsaria, i otechestvo" In gilt on blue glass shield on front of decanter.
Credit line:
Bequest of Marjorie Merriweather Post, 1973