Sherbet Cup

Among Kuzmichev's most popular products were sherbet cups and stands, which usually adhered in form to the present examples. The cup's bowl is supported by three branches rising from a knob on the central stem. In this instance, the knob is enameled with the arms of the following locals: Moscow (Saint George and the Dragon); St. Petersburg (crossed anchors and scepter); and Siberia (pair of black sables). Apart from the rim in a saw tooth pattern in blue, turquoise, and pink plique-à-jour enamel, the bowl's exterior is decorated with formal patterns in turquoise, blue, white and red champlevé enamel. The interior of the bowl is lined with a creamy white, en plein enamel over a guilloché ground.

The plate (44.847) could have served as a stand for this sherbet cup. In its center is a formal interlace pattern incorporating white and red blossoms and vines. Continuing outwards is a band of flowers and tendrils in red, green, and blue champlevé enamel. Next, there is a border of white, en plein enamel over a guilloché ground engraved in a basket-weave pattern. The monogram RHR in Cyrillic is enclosed within the white enamel. The outermost border is in plique-à-jour enamel in a saw-tooth pattern in blue, white and pink. The foot is also decorated in champlevé enamel.

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Provenance

Provenance (from the French provenir, 'to come from/forth') is the chronology of the ownership, custody, or location of a historical object. Learn more about provenance at the Walters.

Acquired by Leo Kaplan, New York; purchased by Jean M. Riddell, Washington, D.C., September 7, 1978; by bequest to Walters Art Museum, 2010.