RUSSIAN CUT-CRYSTAL BOX WITH A SILVER LID. ST PETERSBURG, 1837

A small Russian rectangular box crafted from transparent cut crystal and fitted with a removable silver lid. Made in St Petersburg in 1837, the object exemplifies the combination of strict geometric forms characteristic of Late Neoclassicism during the reign of Nicholas I with a finely articulated decorative accent. The body is fashioned from substantial transparent crystal, its walls decorated with geometric diamond cutting that creates a vivid play of light and enhances the clarity of the material. The silver lid has a restrained stepped profile. At its centre is an applied rectangular relief rosette composed of symmetrically arranged stylised leaves, floral elements and palmettes. The contrast between the smooth silver surface, the darkened relief ornament and the faceted crystal lends this small object the character of a miniature work of decorative art. In its overall composition, the box belongs to Russian Late Neoclassicism: its rigorous architectural form is combined with symmetrical vegetal decoration retaining the ordered character of the Neoclassical idiom. Hallmarks: To the interior of the silver lid: assay mark “Д.Т / 1837” of assay master Dmitry Ilyich Tverskoy; “84” — the Russian 84 zolotnik silver standard, corresponding to 875 fineness; St Petersburg city mark with crossed anchors and sceptre; maker’s mark in Latin initials “I.H.R.”. Dimensions: 5 × 5 × 3 cm. Condition: Good condition. Natural signs of age and use.

Estimate:£125.50

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