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SALT CELLAR IN THE FORM OF A THRONE BY THE SAZIKOV FIRM RUSSIA, SAINT PETERSBURG, SECOND HALF OF THE 19TH CENTURY
SALT CELLAR IN THE FORM OF A THRONE BY THE SAZIKOV FIRM RUSSIA, SAINT PETERSBURG, SECOND HALF OF THE 19TH CENTURY
An elegant silver salt cellar executed by the renowned Saint Petersburg firm Sazikov represents a characteristic example of Russian artistic silver of the Historicism period. The object is conceived in the form of a miniature throne with a high shaped back, a stepped base, and a hinged front panel opening to reveal the inner compartment for salt. Such interpretation of a utilitarian object as a throne-like architectural form imparts a ceremonial, almost reliquary character and reflects the стремление of Russian silversmiths of the second half of the 19th century to create works imbued with a pronounced national-historical imagery.The surface is decorated with fine engraving and chased geometric and cross-shaped ornaments associated with the decorative system of the Russian style. The upper section of the back features vertical openwork apertures framed by строгие ornamental motifs.The combination of architectural composition, archaizing ornament and expressive plasticity makes this salt cellar a vivid example of the Russian national-romantic line in decorative arts. Such objects were created not only as tableware but also as камерные artistic images intended for a cultivated collector and for an environment receptive to ideas of historical memory and the aesthetics of Old Russia.Marks: Under the double-headed eagle - “Sazikov”; assay mark “84”; Saint Petersburg city mark - anchor.Dimensions: Height: 5 cm. Width 4 cm.Weight: 81 g.Condition: Good. Gilding even. Minor surface wear and light traces of use consistent with age. Structure preserved.Provenance: Private collection.
Begins 02.05.2026
SILVER CHAMPAGNE COOLER WITH DRAGON HANDLES. EUROPE, LATE 19TH - EARLY 20TH CENTURY
SILVER CHAMPAGNE COOLER WITH DRAGON HANDLES. EUROPE, LATE 19TH - EARLY 20TH CENTURY
A luxurious silver champagne cooler, executed in finely chased and stamped decoration, represents an expressive example of ceremonial tableware of the Historicism period, incorporating elements of Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque. The oval body with a subtle conical taper is articulated by vertical fluting, emphasizing the architectural clarity and elegance of the silhouette.The central cartouches are adorned with elaborate foliate ornament composed of acanthus scrolls and shell motifs. Beneath the rim runs a relief frieze with a Rocaille pattern. Particularly striking are the massive cast handles in the form of fantastical dragons with outstretched wings, curved necks, and finely modeled heads. The sculptural plasticity of the handles contrasts with the smooth polished surfaces of the body, creating a dynamic play of light across the silver.The base is profiled and enriched with engraved ornament, providing both visual balance and structural stability. The object was intended for cooling champagne bottles in ice and served as an essential element of formal table settings among the upper classes and aristocratic receptions.Marks: Require clarification following visual inspection and expert examination.Dimensions: Height 21.5 cm. Diameter approx 25 cm.Weight: 1380 g.Condition: Good. Natural silver patina, minor surface wear consistent with use. No deformations or losses of form observed.Provenance: Private European collection.
Begins 03.05.2026
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