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Pot-pourri in the form of a gondola |
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This pot pourri in the shape of a gondola is one of the unique exhibits produced in the early period of the Sèvres factory's activities. Pot pourri literally means "rotten pot" in French. It would contain a mixture of flower petals and different spices specially prepared and matured over several years like a fine wine. The subtle scents exuded by a pot pourri would counter the unpleasant smells that plagued European cities and suburban residences in the 18th century. Such holders, produced in quite small numbers, were used mainly as gifts. In 1758 Louis XV presented the example now in the Hermitage collection to Johanna Elisabeth, Princess of Zerbst, the mother of the future Empress Catherine II. |
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Copyright © 2011 State Hermitage Museum |
