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Silver salt cellar in the form of a chair in Old Russian style, Vasily Ivanovich Ivanov Moscow, Russia, 1885
Silver salt cellar in the form of a chair in Old Russian style, Vasily Ivanovich Ivanov Moscow, Russia, 1885
An elegant silver salt cellar of rare form, executed as a miniature chair with a hinged cover, represents a refined example of Moscow silverwork of the Historicism period. The composition is conceived as a stylized seat with an openwork back, a rectangular salt compartment and a folding front panel, lending the object architectural clarity and symbolic character.Particular attention is drawn to the pierced back executed in the Old Russian style. The central panel is engraved with a flowering tree surmounted by two symmetrically placed birds - a motif rooted in folk art traditions and symbolizing abundance, fertility and harmony. This decorative element harmoniously interacts with the openwork foliate scrolls and the serrated upper edge reminiscent of traditional wood carving.The base is adorned with a relief floral ornament and softly profiled contours enhancing the decorative unity of the piece. The hinged cover is finely engraved and reveals a gilt interior, creating a striking contrast with the silver surface and emphasizing the ceremonial character of the object.Marks: Maker’s mark “VI” for Vasily Ivanovich Ivanov, Moscow, active 1870–1908; assay mark with initials “V.P” over a line and date “1885”; standard mark “84”; Moscow city mark depicting St. George slaying the dragon.Dimensions: Height: 6.5 cm; length: 6 cm.Weight: 67 g.Condition: Good. Partial wear to gilding and minor surface wear consistent with age. No structural damage or losses.Provenance: Private collection.
Begins 02.05.2026
THRONE-SHAPED SALT CELLAR. CORONATION OF EMPEROR ALEXANDER III RUSSIAN EMPIRE, MOSCOW, 1883
THRONE-SHAPED SALT CELLAR. CORONATION OF EMPEROR ALEXANDER III RUSSIAN EMPIRE, MOSCOW, 1883
A commemorative salt cellar executed in gilt brass, created in connection with the coronation festivities marking the accession of Emperor Alexander III. The body is formed as a stylised throne with a high openwork back, lending the object a pronounced symbolic character and emphasising its memorial function.The backrest is finely engraved with the double-headed eagle of the House of Romanov, depicted with imperial regalia. The heraldic composition is complemented by decorative elements incorporating crosses and star motifs, forming a solemn and official visual programme. The architectural logic of the form is underlined by clear articulation of surfaces and rhythmic ornamental bands.On the front of the base, a Cyrillic inscription “ВЪ ПАМЯТЬ СЕ” (“In Commemoration”) is engraved, a traditional formula used on objects produced for major state occasions. The upper section is fitted with a hinged lid, allowing the piece to be used for its intended purpose. The proportions are well balanced, and the silhouette is austere and monumental, in keeping with the official aesthetic of late Imperial Russian decorative arts.Marks: None observed.Dimensions: Height 13 cm; Length 10 cm.Condition: Good. Gilding with an even, natural patina. Minor signs of age consistent with use. No deformations or losses.Provenance: Coronation celebrations of Emperor Alexander III, Moscow, 1883.
Begins 02.05.2026
SILVER SALT CELLAR IN THE FORM OF A THRONE WITH THE PROVERB “EAT BREAD AND SALT, BUT SPEAK THE TRUTH” RUSSIA, MOSCOW, 1875
SILVER SALT CELLAR IN THE FORM OF A THRONE WITH THE PROVERB “EAT BREAD AND SALT, BUT SPEAK THE TRUTH” RUSSIA, MOSCOW, 1875
An elegant silver salt cellar in the form of a miniature throne, representing a characteristic example of Moscow decorative silver of the second half of the 19th century. The architectural composition is conceived as a ceremonial seat with a high shaped back, pierced vertical openings, and a hinged front panel providing access to the interior.The plasticity of the piece is defined by strict symmetry and rich decorative detailing. The surface is finely engraved with geometric and stylised vegetal motifs typical of Moscow workshops of the Historicism period. The central panel features the inscription: “Eat bread and salt, but speak the truth,” executed in a traditional manner using Old Russian script, lending the object a distinctly national character and symbolic meaning.The gilded interior enhances the visual contrast with the matte silver surface, emphasising the festive and ceremonial nature of the piece. The ornamental system, including a serrated edge, engraved hatchings, and stamped elements, demonstrates a high level of craftsmanship and refined execution.Marks: Assay mark “VS” over a line with the date “1875” - Viktor Savinkov, assay master, Moscow; Russian standard mark “84” with the Moscow city emblem (St George); Maker’s mark “LCh” (Cyrillic, unidentified Moscow master, third quarter of the 19th century).Dimensions: Height: 6 cm; Width: 6 cm; Depth: 4 cm.Weight: 57 g.Condition: Good. Even gilding. Minor wear to the base. No deformations, cracks, restorations, or signs of heavy use.Provenance: Private collection.
Begins 02.05.2026
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