Four (4) pieces Russian Imperial Porcelain from the Kremlin Dessert Service made for Tsar Nicholas I and designed by Fyodor Grigorievich Solntsev (1801-1892), including two (2) tazzas or competes (3 1/2" H x 8 5/8" dia.) and two (2) plates (9" dia.). Solntsev's design incorporated traditional Russian stylized blossoms on a gilt ground, with foliate sprays encircling the Imperial double-headed eagle and the Cyrillic title of Nicholas I. Unmarked. Second quarter 19th century. Note: several pieces of this service were sold in the 20th century through the "Antikvariat" – a Russian department of the Ministry of Trade set up by Lenin in 1921. The Antikvariat sold and exported art and antiques acquired from Russian elites and museums in order to raise cash to fund the new revolutionary government.

PROVENANCE: The Estate of Edward Laudermilk, Nashville, Tennessee.

CONDITION: All items in overall excellent condition with minimal utensil scratching and a couple of tiny minor stains which we have not attempted to clean. One plate has a 1/4" flake to center in gilt decoration, near inside of border. One compote has a 1/8" area of light wear to gilding to interior.