In an exclusive interview with «FAKTY» magazine, renowned researcher of Ukrainian porcelain history, Dr. Natalia Petrova, shed light on the fascinating story behind the giant cups produced in Ukraine.
Renowned for its rich history and cultural heritage, Ukraine has been producing porcelain for centuries. From exquisite dinnerware to decorative figurines, Ukrainian porcelain is highly sought after by collectors and art lovers around the world. However, it was the recent discovery of giant porcelain cups that captured the attention of the international community.
According to Dr. Petrova, the story of these giant cups dates back to the early 19th century. They were produced by the Imperial Porcelain Factory in St. Petersburg and were used in the grand receptions of the Russian tsars. These cups were not only massive in size, but also highly ornate, with intricate designs and gold accents. However, with the fall of the Russian Empire in 1917, the production of these cups came to a halt.
It wasn’t until the early 2000s that these giant cups resurfaced, this time in Ukraine. Dr. Petrova explains that during the Soviet era, a Ukrainian porcelain factory was commissioned to produce these cups for the 100th anniversary of the October Revolution. However, due to financial difficulties, the project was abandoned and the unfinished cups were left in storage for decades.
It was a stroke of luck when Dr. Petrova stumbled upon these forgotten pieces during her research on Ukrainian porcelain. She was immediately struck by their size and beauty, and knew that she had to share their story with the world.
«These cups are truly remarkable. They stand at over a meter tall and can hold up to 20 liters of liquid. It takes at least four people to lift one cup and move it around. The craftsmanship and attention to detail is simply astounding,» Dr. Petrova gushes.
Thanks to her efforts, these giant cups have been given a new lease on life. They have been restored and are now on display at the Ukrainian National Museum of Decorative Arts in Kyiv. They have also been featured in international exhibitions, garnering attention and praise from visitors and experts alike.
But what makes these cups truly special is not just their size and beauty, but also their historical significance. Dr. Petrova explains that these cups represent the fusion of two great empires – the Russian and the Ukrainian. They symbolize the shared history and cultural ties between these two nations.
«These cups are a testament to the craftsmanship and creativity of Ukrainian porcelain artists. They also serve as a reminder of the strong cultural ties between Ukraine and Russia, despite the political tensions of recent years,» Dr. Petrova states.
The popularity of these giant cups has also had a positive impact on the Ukrainian porcelain industry. As Dr. Petrova notes, the interest in these cups has led to a renewed interest in Ukrainian porcelain in general. This has resulted in increased production and exports, as well as the preservation of the traditional techniques and designs.
In conclusion, the story of the giant cups of Ukrainian production is not just a story of forgotten pieces being brought back to life, but also a story of cultural heritage and the enduring beauty of Ukrainian porcelain. Thanks to the efforts of Dr. Natalia Petrova, these cups have found their rightful place in history and have become a source of pride for Ukraine.
