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SILVER TOBACCO BOX WITH ENAMEL DECORATION CHINA, EARLY 20TH CENTURY
SILVER TOBACCO BOX WITH ENAMEL DECORATION CHINA, EARLY 20TH CENTURY
An exquisite silver box of rectangular form with gently rounded corners, decorated on both sides with polychrome enamel. The enamel decoration is composed of lush floral arrangements featuring fully blossomed peonies, buds, and dense foliage. The ornament is applied to both the lid and the reverse side, forming a cohesive decorative ensemble.The composition is executed in a manner characteristic of Chinese decorative art, with softly modelled petals and subtle tonal gradations. The peonies, rendered in lilac-purple and white tones with green foliage, are associated in Chinese artistic tradition with notions of honour, wealth, rank, and prosperity. In museum descriptions, they are often identified as one of the most significant auspicious motifs in Chinese decorative arts.The smooth silver side panels form a restrained frame for the enamel plaques. The hinge is neatly constructed, and the lid closes tightly. The object was intended for storing tobacco or smoking accessories and belongs to the category of Chinese export silver of the early 20th century, a period when decorative works in metal, enamel, lacquer, and porcelain were actively produced for both the domestic market and international trade.Marks: Absent or indistinct on the present example.Dimensions: Length: cm; Width: cm; Height: cm.Weight: g.Condition: Good. Minor signs of use. The enamel is well preserved, with possible minimal age-related hairline cracks.Provenance: Private collection.
Begins 03.05.2026
GOLD CIGARETTE CASE BY THE FIRM E. BURKHARD  RUSSIA, SAINT PETERSBURG, EARLY 20TH CENTURY
GOLD CIGARETTE CASE BY THE FIRM E. BURKHARD RUSSIA, SAINT PETERSBURG, EARLY 20TH CENTURY
An impressive gold cigarette case, crafted in 56 zolotnik gold (14K) by the firm E. BURKHARD, represents a high-quality and characteristic example of pre-revolutionary Russian jewellery production of the early 20th century. The piece features an expressive two-tone treatment combining yellow and rose gold and is decorated with a relief chevron pattern (gadrooned chevron), forming a clear diagonal rhythm across the surface.The geometrisation of form, pronounced constructive character of the ornament and strict organisation of planes reflect the transitional artistic language from late Art Nouveau to early Art Deco. The contrast between matte and polished surfaces enhances the decorative expressiveness and highlights the technical precision of execution.The cigarette case is fitted with a push-button clasp set with a natural sapphire cabochon, emphasising its representative and status-oriented character. The interior is fully gilded. The hinge and clasp construction shows precise fitting and reliable engineering, characteristic of high-grade factory workmanship intended for a discerning and affluent clientele, including officers and senior officials.Hallmarks: Trade mark “E. BURKHARD” in a rectangular cartouche; Saint Petersburg District Assay Office mark in an oval shield with the fineness “56”, kokoshnik head and the Greek letter “α”; Maker’s mark “VK”, attributed to an unidentified craftsman working for the firm E. Burkhard; Additional assay and control marks consistent with the pre-revolutionary standard.Dimensions: 10х7х1.8 cm.Weight: 162 g.Condition: Good. Minor signs of careful use consistent with age. The case structure is preserved. Clasp and hinges are fully functional. No losses, deformations or signs of later intervention detected.Provenance: Private European collection.
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