Coat-of-arms Plate From The Imperial Manufactory, Alexander III, 1881

Antique Russian hard-paste porcelain plate, manufactured at the Imperial Porcelain Factory in Saint Petersburg. Its smooth, flared rim is accented by two concentric gold fillets applied by hand.

The rim features a finely painted depiction of the Russian imperial double-headed eagle in the “New Style.” Executed in low-fire polychrome enamels and gold, the eagle holds the scepter and the imperial orb; the Moscow coat of arms featuring Saint George appears on its chest, while eight territorial coats of arms are arranged on its outstretched wings.

The reverse bears the early mark of Alexander III, stamped in chrome green: the stylized imperial cipher A III beneath the Russian imperial crown, with the date 81. This form of mark was used from 1881 to 1883. A handwritten black number, 17, is also present near the foot.

The Imperial Porcelain Manufactory produced tableware for the tsar’s court. Its mark and the imperial coat of arms suggest that this plate likely originated from a court service; the surviving pieces were dispersed after the Revolution through auctions and into private collections.

Today, collectors particularly value pieces produced by the Imperial Porcelain Manufactory, as it was the supplier to the court.

Dimensions: weight 439 g; diameter 22.4 cm; height 2.6 cm.

Condition: very good original condition. Slight wear to the gilding and a tiny original firing mark on the reverse, near the foot. UV examination revealed no retouching, restoration, or breakage.

Please examine the attached photographs carefully, as they are an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance.