Fine and important gilt ground porcelain vase by the Gardner Factory

Fine and important gilt ground porcelain vase by the Gardner Factory
Russian, c. 1830
Height 43cm, width 21cm, depth 15cm
 
This fine antique vase is the work of the celebrated Russian Gardner Factory (founded in 1766), considered to be the first porcelain manufacturer in Russia. It bears a close similarity to a pair of vases, also made by Gardner, which date from 1828-1829, and are housed in the State Russian Museum in St Petersburg. As well as having a distinguished maker, this vase is an exceptional piece of craftsmanship.
 
Set on a square base and spreading socle, the front of the body of the vase is painted with a idealised scene of the Russian peasantry characteristic of the factory, and probably by one of the artists in residence at the time. The idyllic pastoral scene shows a noble family on a walk, greeting fishermen by a river. The reverse side of the vase is decorated with a gilt crown with flowers and foliage around it, while the painting and decorations are set on a turquoise and gilt ground.
 
The vase takes an amphora shape and has twin handles in the form of lion's heads. The underside of the vase bears the marks of the Gardner Factory. The importance of these makers, and the high regard in which they are held by collectors and purveyors of the finest antiques, is instantly obvious from the superb quality and great artistry of this piece, which makes for a sumptuous interior decorative addition.
 
Artist/Maker: Gardner Porcelain Factory