An Early 19th Century Russian porcelain tea set

Consisting of a covered teapot, sugar bowl, milk jug, bowl, five cups and saucers, this superb tea service was made by the Safronov Porcelain Factory in Moscow, c.1820. An important set, and predating many of the later Imperial manufactories, each individual piece is beautifully executed and meticulously decorated with portraits of the Imperial family, such as Grand Duke Constantin, Grand Duke Nicholas (later Tsar Nicholas I) and Grand Duke Alexander (later Alexander II).

Each portrait is set within a ciselé gilt foliate design, on a rich dark blue ground. The pieces are adorned with upswept scrolling handles, and with additional rosettes. They are all marked on the base with blue underglaze marks for the factory.