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Russian silver

RUSSIAN PRESENTATION SILVER KOVSH IN ART NOUVEAU STYLE. ALEXANDER VYAKOVA. FIRM OF C. FABERGÉ SAINT PETERSBURG, EARLY 20TH CENTURY
RUSSIAN PRESENTATION SILVER KOVSH IN ART NOUVEAU STYLE. ALEXANDER VYAKOVA. FIRM OF C. FABERGÉ SAINT PETERSBURG, EARLY 20TH CENTURY
An outstanding presentation kovsh executed in the early 20th century in the Art Nouveau style by the silversmith Alexander Vyakova for the Saint Petersburg branch of the firm of C. Fabergé. The form of the kovsh is inspired by the silhouette of an ancient Russian ladya, interpreted through the flowing lines and sculptural plasticity characteristic of Russian Art Nouveau. This national romantic imagery reflects the broader cultural revival of the period and finds visual parallels in the decorative world associated with Ivan Bilibin.The elongated body emphasizes a horizontal composition, reinforcing the symbolic reference to a ceremonial vessel. Along the sides are applied shield-shaped ornaments set with natural cabochon-cut jasper, introducing refined color accents and enhancing the decorative rhythm of the piece. The handle is sculpturally modeled to resemble the stern and rudder of an ancient vessel, underscoring the historical symbolism and presentation character of the kovsh.This object belongs to the category of ceremonial silver, intended for official gifts or representative collections, and exemplifies the exceptional artistic design and technical excellence characteristic of Fabergé silver from the early 20th century.Marks: Maker’s mark “C. Fabergé” beneath the double-headed eagle, confirming production by the Saint Petersburg branch; Saint Petersburg assay mark of 1908-1917 with the letter “a,” a woman’s head in kokoshnik turned to the right, and the fineness mark “84” within an oval shield; master’s mark “AW” in Latin letters corresponding to the silversmith Alexander Vyakova; Fabergé inventory number “18458.”Dimensions: Height 11 cm, width 13 cm, length 28 cm.Weight: 625 g.Condition: Good. Silver with natural patina. Jasper inlays intact. Minor traces of age consistent with period.Provenance: Private European collection.
Begins 02.05.2026
SILVER-GILT KOVSH WITH POLYCHROME ENAMELS. PAVEL OVTCHINNIKOV FIRM RUSSIA, MOSCOW, 1908–1917
SILVER-GILT KOVSH WITH POLYCHROME ENAMELS. PAVEL OVTCHINNIKOV FIRM RUSSIA, MOSCOW, 1908–1917
A large ceremonial kovsh executed in silver with gilding and cloisonné polychrome enamels. The body is formed with pronounced gadrooning, each facet adorned with elaborate floral compositions of flowers and scrolling foliage. The enamels are applied on alternating grounds of green, white, and blue, creating a richly rhythmic decorative surface. The upper section is encircled by a continuous frieze of leafy and floral arabesques in cloisonné enamels set against a matte gilt ground. The interior is fully gilt, emphasizing the ceremonial character of the object. The handle and front panel are similarly decorated with floral motifs in cloisonné polychrome enamels on a sky-blue ground. The form and ornamentation reflect the Neo-Russian style combined with elements of Art Nouveau, characteristic of the Moscow school in the early 20th century.Marks: Complete maker’s mark «P. Ovtchinnikoff» with the double-headed eagle – insignia of Purveyor to the Imperial Court; State assay mark of the Moscow Assay District, 1908–1917, depicting a woman’s head in a kokoshnik facing right within an oval cartouche, accompanied by the silver standard mark “84” and the Greek letter delta (Δ), identifying the Moscow Assay District.Dimensions: Height – 13.5 cm; Length – 29.5 cm; Width – 15.5 cm.Weight: 895 g.Condition: Good. Minor wear consistent with age and use. The enamels are well preserved, without evident losses. Light surface wear to the gilding consistent with age and handling.Provenance: Private European collection.
Begins 02.05.2026
CRYSTAL JUG WITH SILVER, 13TH ARTEL RUSSIA, MOSCOW, EARLY 20TH CENTURY
CRYSTAL JUG WITH SILVER, 13TH ARTEL RUSSIA, MOSCOW, EARLY 20TH CENTURY
An exquisite crystal jug with a silver mount represents a striking example of the high level achieved by Russian decorative and applied arts in the early 20th century. The object demonstrates a refined and deliberate reinterpretation of Western European historical styles, characteristic of Moscow silver workshops of the Late Historicism period. The composition combines classical restraint with decorative elegance, inspired by motifs of the Early French Renaissance.The proportionally expanded body of transparent crystal is adorned with deep diamond-cut and vegetal engraving, creating a rich play of light while emphasizing the functional purpose of the vessel. The silver collar of the neck is executed in a restrained manner and decorated with classical garlands seemingly suspended along the lower edge, lending the form architectural clarity and ceremonial dignity. A Renaissance-style ornamental band at the rim harmoniously complements the gently curved handle, whose subtly modern character reflects the stylistic transition of the era.A distinctive accent is provided by the garnet finial crowning the lid - an elegant detail symbolically associated with fertility, blossoming, and abundance, themes of particular significance within Renaissance tradition. This refined artistic gesture reinforces the association of the jug with formal table settings and celebratory beverages such as cherry juice, punch, or red wine. The jug is perceived not merely as a utilitarian object, but as an independent artistic focal point conceived for festive occasions.Hallmarks: State assay mark of the Moscow Assay Office for secondary elements and fittings, silver standard “84”, period 1908-1926; Maker’s mark “13A” (13th Artel); Inside the lid - repeated Moscow Assay Office mark and maker’s mark “13A”.Dimensions: Height: 29 cm, Width: 16 cm, Depth: 13 cmCondition: Good. The crystal shows no cracks or restorations. The silver elements retain an even time patina, without deformation.Provenance: Private collection.
Begins 02.05.2026
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