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PAIR OF SCULPTURES “MOORISH PORTERS” FRANCE, 19TH CENTURY
PAIR OF SCULPTURES “MOORISH PORTERS” FRANCE, 19TH CENTURY
An elegant pair of life-size figures executed in polychrome painted wood, representing a striking example of French decorative salon sculpture of the 19th century. The sculptures depict two Moors dressed in richly interpreted Oriental attire, with carefully rendered details of fabrics, headdresses and accessories.The figures are conceived in dynamic poses: one holds a tall staff topped with a spherical finial, while the other raises a chain with a pendant, lending the composition a ceremonial and stately character. The contrast between the dark polished surface and the vibrant polychromy of the garments enhances the decorative effect and emphasizes the theatrical quality of the imagery. Gilded accents on the footwear, belts and draperies create an impression of opulence consistent with the taste of the Historicism period.Such sculptures served as impressive interior accents in grand salons and entrance halls of mansions. In addition to their representational function, these figures were often used as incense burners or holders for accessories, acting as a decorative substitute for servants within the interior setting. The bases are formed as multi-faceted pedestals imitating marble, enriched with gilded moulded bands.Dimensions: Height approx. 150 cm; width approx. 100 cm each.Condition: Good. Polychromy and gilding with natural age-related wear. Minor traces of time on the bases. Structurally stable, without visible losses.Provenance: Private collection.
Begins 03.05.2026
LARGE RUSSIAN SILVER KOVSH WITH CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL BY KONSTANTIN SKVORTSOV  RUSSIA, MOSCOW, 1908–1917
LARGE RUSSIAN SILVER KOVSH WITH CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL BY KONSTANTIN SKVORTSOV RUSSIA, MOSCOW, 1908–1917
A large ceremonial Russian silver kovsh executed in Moscow by the silversmith Konstantin Illarionovich Skvortsov in the early 20th century. The vessel is conceived in the traditional form of a stylized boat, a shape rooted in ancient Russian ceremonial drinking vessels and widely revived in Moscow silver of the late Imperial period. The monumental silhouette provides a framework for an elaborate and richly articulated decorative program.The surface is adorned with high-quality polychrome cloisonné enamel applied to large panels featuring vegetal ornament and stylized floral clusters. Extremely fine silver wire partitions create a precise rhythmic structure, reflecting a high level of technical mastery. The color palette ranges from emerald green and deep cobalt blue to sky blue, coral and white tones, producing a harmonious and vibrant chromatic composition. The interior is finished with fire gilding, enhancing the visual richness of the piece and reinforcing its ceremonial character. The handle is decorated in the same ornamental language and seamlessly continues the overall decorative scheme.Hallmarks: Cyrillic initials “KS” in a rectangular cartouche, corresponding to the silversmith Konstantin Illarionovich Skvortsov; Moscow Assay Office hallmark with a woman’s head in a kokoshnik and silver standard “84”, dated 1908–1917; Additional assay marks; Presentation engraving on the inner side of the handle: letter “L” and date “1927”.Dimensions: Length 23 cm. Height 10 cm. Width 23 cm. Thickness 13 cm.Weight: 510 g.Condition: Good.Provenance: Private collection.
Begins 02.05.2026
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