Important Imperial Russian Porcelain Presentation Tureen, Nicholas I Period, Double Award Service, c.1840

A rare and historically important Imperial Russian porcelain presentation tureen with cover and stand, produced by the Imperial Porcelain Manufactory, St. Petersburg, circa 1840, during the reign of Tsar Nicholas I (1825–1855).

Executed in refined white porcelain with finely hand-painted gilt decoration, the tureen is adorned with the Imperial double-headed eagle and the inscription For Service and Bravery (“За службу и храбрость”), denoting its role within a ceremonial award service of high imperial significance.

This example belongs to a distinguished Imperial “double award” service, incorporating references to both the Order of St. George and the Order of St. Vladimir—among the highest honors of the Russian Empire. Such services were produced only on rare occasions and are considered exceptionally rare, reflecting a particularly elevated level of imperial recognition.

Importantly, the Imperial double-headed eagle and inscription are consistently repeated on both the tureen and the matching stand, reinforcing the integrity and ceremonial unity of the set.

The elegant neoclassical form reflects the disciplined aesthetic of the Nicholas I period, with shaped twin handles, a domed lid with original finial, and a raised pedestal base with matching stand. The gilding is of exceptional quality and remains remarkably well preserved.
The underside bears the underglaze blue Imperial cypher of Nicholas I beneath a crown.

This tureen forms part of a documented service published in the Pavlovsk State Museum Reserve catalogue (“Imperial Porcelain Factory, late 18th – early 20th century”), where comparable pieces are illustrated. The service is historically associated with the Mecklenburg-Strelitz family, closely connected to the Russian Imperial Court through Grand Duchess Catherine Mikhailovna of Russia, a member of the Romanov dynasty.
A distinguished museum-level object, combining Imperial symbolism, aristocratic provenance, and the highest standards of Russian porcelain production.

Dimensions:
Width: 15 in (38 cm)
Height: 13.5 in (34 cm)
Diameter: 14 in (35.5 cm)

Condition:
Excellent antique condition.