after a design by Anatolii Lukin, the heavy ovoid body cut and etched with a decorative view of ryukin, or fantail, goldfish swimming amongst marine plants and large polished air bubbles, with engraved cypher mark dated 1910

overall very good condition; the interior showing some inherent faults from the handworking process (a few scattered small bubbles and inclusions), one small discolored line to the interior, possibly inherent, the underside with wear to the foot consistent with age and use
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.

In her research on this lot, Russian Museum curator Irina Popova noted that this vase, titled Fish (Ryby) and measuring 2.5 vershki (12 cm), appeared on the inventory of items prepared in 1910. Artist-designer Anatolii Lukin, who had been employed at the glassworks since 1908, was responsible for both the design and the execution of the vase. Popova speculated that it was meant for Empress Alexandra, who particularly favored this size and shape of vase and ordered numerous similar examples. For another slightly larger 1911 vase in cased glass by Lukin in the Hermitage, see T. Malinina, Imperatorskii stekliannyi zavod XVIII-nachalo XX veka, St. Petersburg, 2009, p. 359.