Salt shaker-chair with carved image of flowers. Ivan Alekseev Russia, Moscow, 1874

An elegant salt shaker in the shape of a chair was made in the workshop of silversmith Ivan Alekseevich Alekseev in 1874. The back is decorated with a complex carved ornament with a central rosette surrounded by round holes, creating an openwork effect. The seat and side surfaces are decorated with floral motifs and geometric patterns. The base is decorated with relief elements, emphasizing the richness of the finish. Material and technique: Silver 84 assay value; sawing, engraving and gilding techniques. Hallmarks: Initials of the master I.A. (Alekseev Ivan Alekseevich) on the bottom and lid. City hallmark of the city of Moscow George the Victorious. Assay mark of the inspector I.K. with the date 1874. Additional hallmarks on the back - 84 and I.A. Item condition: Good preservation. Small traces of use. Dimensions: Height - 7.7 cm. Base - 5.5 x 6.3 cm. Weight: 138 g.

Historical background: Alekseev Ivan Alekseevich is a master silversmith, a well-known manufacturer of items made of 84-carat silver. He founded a factory in Moscow in 1876, which became famous for its high-quality products until 1912. In 1897, 40 people worked in production, including 33 men and 7 teenagers. During the year, products worth 13 thousand rubles were manufactured. The product range included icons in silver frames with enamel, triptychs, as well as decorative and applied art items.