WEDDING SALT CELLAR FOR THE KARAVAI BY THE FIRM OF P.A. OVCHINNIKOV

An expressive silver wedding salt cellar for the ceremonial karavai, created at the factory of Pavel Akimovich Ovchinnikov in Moscow in 1874. The object represents an essential attribute of the traditional bread-and-salt ritual symbolizing hospitality, prosperity, and the sincere blessing of a newly formed family. In its sculptural conception, the salt cellar is designed as a stylized skirt-tablecloth with softly descending folds that evoke the effect of draped fabric. The surface is decorated with chased floral rosettes and stylized blossoms arranged in a rhythmic ornamental composition. Along the lower edge runs an expressive scalloped border composed of repeating circular elements. An additional decorative accent is created by a silver chain, gracefully falling across the surface of the “fabric.” The upper removable bowl is adorned with a band of champlevé enamel in the traditional palette of blues, light blues, and greens characteristic of the Moscow school. A central four-lobed medallion is organically integrated into the composition, visually connecting the enameled band with the body. The interior of the bowl is gilded, emphasizing the ceremonial character of the piece and corresponding to the tradition of producing ritual silverware. The high artistic level of chasing, precision of ornamental design, and quality of the enamel attest to the work of first-class masters of the Ovchinnikov factory during its period of flourishing. Hallmarks: Full firm mark beneath the double-headed eagle “P. Ovchinnikov”; small oval mark “P.O.”; Moscow city assay mark for 1874; initials of the assay master “V.S.” with the date “1874”; state silver standard “84” on the exterior of the body. Dimensions: Height approx. 9 cm; base diameter approx. 14 cm. Weight: 208 g. Condition: Good.

Estimate:$1,116.86

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