RUSSIAN CRYSTAL JARDINIERE OF THE IMPERIAL GLASS FACTORY, SAINT PETERSBURG, 1912

The jardiniere is a unique example of decorative art of the early 20th century, made at the Imperial Glass Factory in St. Petersburg. The plant was founded in the 18th century and became famous for its high-quality products, which were in great demand both in Russia and abroad. The plant`s products decorated the interiors of imperial palaces and estates of the nobility, and served as gifts at diplomatic receptions and family celebrations. The product is distinguished by its massiveness and impressive dimensions: height 15.5 cm, length 69 cm, width 15.5 cm. These parameters indicate its purpose for large state rooms and spacious interiors. The rectangular shape with slightly concave sides, rounded corners and convex ends gives the product elegance and dynamism, creating an effect of lightness and sophistication. The decor deserves special attention: the main element of the decoration is the double-headed eagles depicted on the sides of the product. This symbol, which dates back to the times of the Byzantine Empire, was adopted by the Russian tsars and became an integral part of state symbols, which is the personification of the power and greatness of the Russian Empire. The eagles are made with exceptional detail, highlighting the skill of the artists and glass cutters of the Imperial Factory. Additional decor is made in the form of curls of flowers and foliage, creating a complex and exquisite ornament that harmoniously complements the main element of royal grandeur. The glass carvings are made in the Renaissance style, indicating a revival of interest in classical arts and crafts that characterized the late 19th and early 20th centuries. At the same time, the decor is inspired by Russian motifs of the 17th century, which include elements of floral patterns and ancient shapes of the product. This combination of styles indicates the desire of the craftsmen to preserve national traditions and cultural heritage. On the bottom of the jardiniere you can see the inscription H II 1912, made using the notch method. This marking indicates the year the product was created and whether it belonged to the products of the Imperial Glass Factory during the reign of Nicholas II. Analogues of this product can be found in museum collections around the world. For example, the collection of the Hillwood Museum in Washington contains vases with similar decoration (inv. No. 23.128.1 and 23.128.2). These vases, designed by Pyotr Ivanovich Krasnovsky and carved by carver Grigory Omrokov, confirm the high level of craftsmanship and artistic value of the products of the Imperial Glass Factory. The jardiniere is not only a valuable work of art, but also an important historical artifact. It reflects the high level of development of applied art in Russia at the beginning of the 20th century and the skill of artists and craftsmen who worked at the Imperial Glass Factory.Material: Colorless crystal, blown, cut, carved, engraved, polished.Provenance: Private collection.