A set of three Soviet Porcelain Plates: 'Bim and Bom', Lydia Vyechegzhanina Chekhonin, State Porcelain Manufactory, 1922

after a design by the artist, from a limited series, with blue manufactory mark, dated 1922, Imperial cypher for Nicholas II 1897, nos. 312/1, 312/9, 312/17 and  'po riz L.V.'

Illustrated in: Walter Raeburn, Apollo Magazine, January 1966, p61

In apparent good condition, very minor surface scratches consistent with age and use.
"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."

It is exceptionally rare to find Bim and Bom plates offered at auction. Of the plates documented in London in the 1930s, five were still held in private hands until very recently. Sotheby's sold two, Olympia 20th May 2005, Lot 227 and these are the remaining three from the collection. One of the five is illustrated in Nina Lobanov-Rostovsky: Revolutionary Ceramics, Soviet Porcelain 1917-1927, London, 1990, page 88.