Hallmarks:Moscow district assay office hallmark of the period 1899–1908, depicting a female head in kokoshnik facing left, in an oval reserve, with the initials of the assay master Ivan Sergeyevich Lebedkin and the number 84 indicating silver fineness. Makers mark VA in a rectangular reserve, attributed to silversmith Vladimir Nikitich Akimov.
Dimensions:Cigarette case: 9 × 7.5 × 1.5 cm; Matchbox: 6 × 4 × 2 cm
Weight:Total gross weight: 259 g (cigarette case – 190 g; matchbox – 69 g)
Condition:Good collectible condition. Enamel and gilding well-preserved, no significant losses. Original case with minor age-appropriate signs of use.Provenance:Private collection. Sale: Sotheby’s Olympia, Russian Pictures, Works of Art and Icons, 20 May 2005, Lot 28.
Silversmith Vladimir Akimov was one of the leading representatives of the Moscow enamel school. As early as 1860, his workshop employed 10 journeymen and 5 apprentices, indicating both the scale and the high demand for his production.
The maritime scenes adorning the central cartouches reference travel, exploration, and the romantic imagery so prized at the time. The pastel color palette, enhanced by translucent gilding, creates a shimmering and animated surface effect.
Objects of this type, executed in cloisonné, were frequently intended as gifts, displayed in ceremonial interiors, and exhibited at international expositions.
In good collectible condition. Enamel intact, gilding vibrant, original case preserved with minor signs of use consistent with age.
The condition report is provided for informational purposes only.
It is not comprehensive and may not reflect all defects, restorations, alterations, or adaptations, as Antiqon does not perform professional conservation-level assessments. The information is based on a qualified, yet subjective, evaluation by our specialists.Before purchasing, we recommend consultation with an independent expert.Please also consult our Terms and conditions and Glossary A-Z, which contain important information on lot characteristics and sale conditions.
