46. SILVER SAMOVAR. JOHAN OLSONIUS RUSSIA, SAINT PETERSBURG, THIRD QUARTER OF THE 19TH CENTURY

A cylindrical silver samovar executed in the third quarter of the 19th century by Johan Olsonius, one of the key masters of the Grachev Brothers firm, Purveyors to the Russian Imperial Court. The piece displays the defining characteristics of the Saint Petersburg artistic silversmithing school: strict proportions, architectural clarity of silhouette, and a high level of craftsmanship. The body is distinguished by its well-balanced plasticity of form, reflecting the metropolitan taste and academic traditions of the second half of the 19th century. The tap is adorned with an openwork lanceolate plate with finely pierced decoration, enhancing the decorative expressiveness of the object. The side handles are fitted with turned ivory inserts, creating a noble contrast of materials and reinforcing the refined visual composition. The samovar rests on four flattened ball feet, typical of works produced by the Grachev Brothers firm during this period. The interior of the vessel retains traces of original gilding.

Marks: Maker’s mark “J.O.” – Johan Olsonius; Imperial Russian assay mark with fineness “84”; Saint Petersburg city assay mark.

Dimensions: Height: 40 cm; Diameter: 15 cm.
Weight: Gross weight: 2320 g.
Condition: Good.
Provenance: Private European collection.