A Berlin KPM micromosaic service in the original case
"Achteckig glatt" model. Comprising a teapot, coffee pot, and sugar box with sphinx finial lids, a milk jug, and two cups and saucers. Painted with views of Rome in micromosaic technique alternating with four lyres in imitation of pietra dura. The handles with fine vermicelli decor. Blue sceptre mark, brown imperial eagle mark. Lid of the sugar box restored, a chip to the lower rim of the sugar box. H of coffee pot 18.4, H of teapot 14.3 cm. In a red embossed leather case with metal mountings fitted with blue velvet H 11, W 61, D 47 cm. With signs of wear.
1823 - 32.
A cup with this décor (possibly from the same service) from the Twinight Collection was sold in Lempertz Auction 1125 on 7th November 2018 as lot 34. This may have been a more extensive service, possibly separated in the 19th century or even after its delivery. The precious and detailed décor with finely nuanced emerald tones and rich gilding suggest a very wealthy patron. The intricate views depict the monuments of Rome as well as the villas and sights of Tivoli, including the bridge over the waterfalls at Aniene and the Ponte Lucano. The depictions are based primarily on the aquatint prints of the English artist James Merigot (1760 - 1824), which are dated between 1796 - 98 and published in London in 1815 under the title "A Select Collection of Views and Ruins in Rome and Its Vicinity. Recently Executed from Drawings Made Upon the Spot".