Antique Russian Solid Silver St Petersburg Gilded Cigarette Case 20th Century

Description

This is arguably the finest antique Russian hand tooled cigarette case in my current collection. I have struggled for some time with the decision of whether or not to list this piece, but have ultimately come to the conclusion that its proper place is with the collector - someone who can give the case the care, and appreciation that it deserves - rather than just passing this piece on down to a member of the family who knows little ( nor shows any interest in getting to know ) the hobby.
This cigarette case was made between 1908-1926 in Moscow, Russia. Composed of solid 84 Zolotnik Silver (the Russian standard of .875 used most frequently at the time), this case boasts a HIGH vibrancy, incredibly luminous polished exterior. As a collector, what I find to be most unusual about this piece is the properties of what is such an old silver. This case, far older than most of the other pieces in my current collection, possesses a natural shine all these years later that truly testifies to the quality of the materials used. Of course, while the exterior silver is what first draws the eye - the gilded silver interior is something in and of itself. What a LOVELY contrast the artist displays here as you open the case - going from a high polish, ultra bright silver complexion - to a matte, gilded (gold hued) one.
While the quality of materials that make up this case truly stand alone, I have to say that beyond a doubt, the featured design on the front of this case is illustrative of a master craftsmanship I had never seen before I came across this piece, nor do I think I will ever see again after it is gone. The cityscape displayed at the front is meant to depict the regal and opulent "St Petersburg, Russia." Everything about the design is indicative of a meticulous attention to detail. The design is layered, giving the 2-Dimensional flat facade of this cigarette case a 3-Dimensional and "layered" feel. I have never seen such finite detail done on a silver medium. Looking closely at the close up photo of the
cityscape
, you will see that nothing is "left out." From individually etched windows of the buildings shown, to the ripples of the river's water passing below the beautiful bridge. I have always believed the detail of the design is almost "photographic" in nature - the accuracy
unparalleled
. There are very few that could do on a pad of paper with a pen what the artist manages to do here in silver. Maybe I am biased, but I looking at the detail here - how can one not be amazed considering the artist's medium is that of silver? This is not some vague depiction of a Russian city, this is truly St. Petersburg .. from every etched building, down to the wonderfully intricate flowing river.
The case is squared away in shape, but features rounded edges for a nice, smooth finish. At the interior, this case is hallmarked. NOTE* There are a myriad of fake Imperial Russian cigarettes offered for sale on the resale market. Pay close attention to hallmarks.
Kokoshnik is a traditional Russian head-dress worn by women and girls. It is tied at the back of the head with long thick ribbons in a large bow. During the revival of Russian national culture in the late 19th century, these diadem-shaped tiaras became part of the official court dress for royalty and ladies-in-waiting.
A woman head wearing the Kokoshnik inside contours of various shapes was used from 1899 to mark Russian silver. These marks are commonly known as "Kokoshnik".
In 1896, a new mark was issued with a female head silhouette facing left and silvers fineness expressed in zolotnik inside an oval oblong or a circular cartouche. On the right side were inscribed the assayer's initials in Cyrillic characters.
In 1908, a new mark was introduced, featuring a more detailed female heading facing RIGHT and silver fineness expressed in zolotnik inside an oval oblong cartouche. The left side was inscribed with the town/region symbol mark. This mark was used from 1908-1926.
This case features the 1908-1926 mark. With a detailed female head facing right, and silver fineness expressed in zolotnik off to the left of the right facing head. The region/town symbol is off to the left.
This case snaps firmly shut, very securely, and is opened and closed via a bright blue cabochon stone. The contrast between the silver build, and the bright blue stone insert is perfect here.
~Overall, this is an exemplary EARLY 1900's 84 Zolotnik Silver Imperial Russian work of art... It is absolutely one of a kind. This is the ONLY model for sale anywhere - guaranteed.. look, but you will not find.
~If you have any further questions, or would like to see any additional photos, please do not hesitate to reach out in the form of an email. I will get back to you promptly. Will ship overseas, but not responsible for any customs fees that might be incurred.
Dimensions:
194 Grams (HEAVY)
10.3 cm Tall
8 cm Wide
1.7 cm Thick