RUSSIAN PRESENTATION SILVER KOVSH IN ART NOUVEAU STYLE. ALEXANDER

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.

Estimate:$8,872.71

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