A Russian porcelain group of Irina Bugrimova and her 'pet lion', Lomonosov Porcelain Factory, Leningrad, circa 1952-55 Modelled by Boris Iakovlevich Vorobyev, lightly decorated in underglaze colours and on a white oval base, 24cm wide, stencilled 'seconds' mark and incised modeller's initials Footnotes: Irina Bugrimova (1910-2001) was a Soviet circus performer who became the first female lion tamer in the Soviet Union. Born in Kharkiv (now Ukraine), she began her career as an athlete, gymnast, and motorcyclist before joining the Moscow State Circus. Over a career spanning several decades, she trained more than 70 lions and other big cats, becoming one of the best-known figures in Soviet circus history. Bugrimova was famous for her close relationship with her lions, which were often portrayed as her 'pets' in publicity photographs and performances. She worked with a succession of trained lions that featured in elaborate acts, including riding motorcycles, walking tightropes, and performing alongside her on swings and platforms. Her daring performances earned her the nickname 'the Lion Queen' and made her a circus legend. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing