Eastern Bloc Ceramics Appraisal

USSR-Era Cobalt Blue and Gold Demitasse Cup and Saucer

This exquisite demitasse cup and saucer set features a deep, lustrous cobalt blue glaze as its primary color, beautifully contrasted with intricate gold detailing. The cup has a classic, elegant shape with a gently flared rim and a C-shaped handle, seamlessly integrated into the body. The interior of the cup is a pristine white, providing a visual break from the dark exterior and highlighting the contents. A broad band of ornate gold decoration, reminiscent of a laurel or vine motif, encircles the exterior of the cup just below the rim. Below this, a narrower band of geometric gold pattern, possibly a herringbone or chain link design, adds further visual interest. The saucer mirrors the cup's design, with a wide band of the same intricate gold leaf pattern along its rim, framing the deep cobalt blue center. The set appears to be made of porcelain or fine china, a typical material for such delicate tableware. The gold decoration exhibits a high level of craftsmanship, suggesting hand-applied gilt rather than a decal, which speaks to its quality. While specific manufacturer's marks are not visible in the provided image, the context "Made in USSR" indicates its origin, placing its estimated age sometime between the mid-20th century to the early 1990s. The overall condition appears excellent, with no immediately visible chips, cracks, or significant wear to the gilding, which would typically show as fading or rubbing on older pieces. The glossy finish of both the cup and saucer suggests minimal use or careful preservation. This set embodies a refined aesthetic often associated with formal tea or coffee service.