Six porcelain kovshi, Kornilov Manufactory, St Petersburg, late 19th century

decorated with raised strapwork borders and handles, four centred with the Imperial eagle, one of which within the civic arms for St Petersburg, Astrakhan, Vladimir, Pskov, Kazan and Nizhni Novgorod, another within a Russian inscription 'The first kovsh-full strengthens, the second gives joy, the third annihilates'; the fifth painted with a river view after N. Paradin; the sixth and largest with a view of children picking mushrooms and the Russian proverb 'Without salt, without bread, there is poor conversation', various Kornilov marks

Excellent condition, with very light wear consistent with age. The largest with a single tiny speck of retouching to the green paint of the border.
"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."