the cavetto painted with a view of a 'Village près de Castello Nuovo', titled on the reverse, within a foliate gilt frame, the rim with three architectural views painted en grisaille on rust-coloured grounds within yellow reserves with blue rosettes issuing polychrome floral garlands, with blue Imperial cypher of Alexander I

Very good condition, with some wear to the gilding and very minor abrasions to the glaze of the cavetto, some firing flaws.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Production of this service began in 1799 during the reign of the Grand Duchess' father, Emperor Paul I, and was completed in 1802 during the reign of her brother, Emperor Alexander I, who presented her with this service upon her marriage to Duke George of Oldenburg in 1809.  Following her husband's death, she remarried Crown Prince William of Württemberg in 1816.  The service is often called 'The Württemberg Service' owing to this marriage and her brief reign as Queen of Württemberg before her death in 1819.