K. F. Werffel Factory

Rare Russian Bronze Masterpiece: Vasily Yakovlevich Grachev (1831–1905) "Odnokonka" (Single-Horse Sleigh) – K. F. Werffel Foundry, St. Petersburg, c. 1880–1890. Absolute Authenticity, Masterclass Collector's Item! Specifications: Artist: Vasily Yakovlevich Grachev (Василий Яковлевич Грачев, 1831–1905) Foundry / Imperial Court Purveyor: K. F. Werffel Factory, St. Petersburg (ЗАВ. К. Ф. ВЕРФЕЛЬ. С. ПЕТЕРБУРГЪ.) Period: Russian Empire, the Carian Golden Age (c. 1880–1890) Model: "Odnokonka" (Single-Horse Sleigh / Winter Journey) Dimensions: Height: 10 cm | Base: 24 x 8 cm (Classic, museum-standard dimensions) Weight: 764 grams (Perfect, historically accurate proportional bronze cast) The Artwork (A True Collector’s Desire): An extraordinary opportunity for connoisseurs of 19th-century Imperial Russian bronze sculpture. This "Odnokonka" is not just an antique; it is a tangible piece of the untamed, majestic, and elegant Old Russia. Vasily Grachev’s genius lies in his unparalleled ability to freeze a breathless, high-speed moment into eternal bronze. Look at the anatomy of the horse: the tensed muscles, the mane whipping in the freezing wind, and the sheer kinetic energy of the raised hooves practically thunder off the base. The figure of the Cossack driver possesses breathtaking character; the textured fur of his hat, the deep folds of his coat, and the intense concentration on his face showcase the microscopic chasing and casting quality that only the legendary K. F. Werffel Foundry—official purveyor to the Russian Imperial Court—could achieve. The two Cyrillic inscriptions on the base—the artist’s cast signature ("ЛЕП. ГРАЧЕВЪ") and the foundry stamp ("ЗАВ. К. Ф. ВЕРФЕЛЬ. С. ПЕТЕРБУРГЪ.")—are razor-sharp and perfectly legible. This pristine, authentic marking system is the Holy Grail for collectors, instantly elevating this piece above the numerous replicas on the market. Condition Report (Authenticity & Golden Patina): The sculpture survives in a magnificent, untouched, "as-found" condition, retaining the deep, rich, warm chocolate-brown patina that only a century of natural aging can bestow upon noble bronze. It has never been chemically cleaned or aggressively polished, preserving its profound historical aura. In the spirit of absolute transparency, the following minor period features and restoration opportunities are noted: The thin metal wire representing the left rein is severed, though the rest of the intricate harness system remains intact. The seated driver figure has become slightly loose over time and wobbles marginally; the original period screw securing this figure from underneath shows surface rust, consistent with its historical age and untouched state. On the underside (featuring the original 19th-century hand-cut screws), one mounting point shows an old, historic stabilization solder—proof that this piece was treasured and maintained across generations. Minor, elegant wear to the patina along the edges of the base and historical dust in the deep recesses, consistent with genuine age. This sculpture is a true "sleeping beauty." With minimal professional attention, it will become the undisputed crowning jewel of any fine collection—an investment piece whose international demand and value continue to rise steadily.

Estimate:£674.17

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