from the Chopin foundry's series depicting Russia's Grand Princes, Tsars and Emperors dedicated to the Millennium of Russia, comprising busts of Alexei Mikhailovich, Fedor, Ioann V, Peter the Great, Catherine I, Peter II, Anna (Ioannovna), Elizaveta (Petrovna), Peter III, Catherine II, Paul I, Alexander I, Nicholas I, Alexandra Fedorovna, and Maria Alexandrovna, all with foundry marks and dated 1867 or 1868, most chronologically numbered with stamped number (15)

overall good condition with attractive patina; the figure of Nicholas I with name removed from plaque
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The official celebration of the Millenium was held in Novgorod on September 8, 1862 and commemorated the perhaps legendary beginnings of the Russian state and its continuation and development over the following century. According to legend, the people of Rus in the area of Novgorod called on the “Varangians [or Vikings],” saying “[o]ur land is vast and abundant, but there is no order in it. Come and reign over us.” In Novgorod itself, a large and important monument with figures of key rulers surrounding a large bell designed by painter and sculptor Mikhail Mikeshin was unveiled and still stands. The series of busts, formally known as “A Gallery of Bronze Busts of All the Russian Grand Princes, Tsars and Emperors (Галерея бронзовых бюстов всех российских великих князей, царей и императоров)” was sold by subscription; Emperor Alexander II was the first subscriber. The series enjoyed enormous popularity and all of the roughly 200 copies of the original series were made.