SILVER SHOT CUP WITH POLYCHROME PLIQUE-À-JOUR ENAMEL. PAVEL OVCHINNIKOV

A highly refined silver shot cup of slightly flared cylindrical form, produced in the workshop of Pavel Akimovich Ovchinnikov, Purveyor to the Russian Imperial Court. The body is entirely covered with complex polychrome plique-à-jour enamel featuring an elaborate decorative composition depicting a swallow, a heron and a swan on a pond against the backdrop of a rising sun. The ornamental scheme is based on a harmonious combination of deep blue, green, amber and red tones, using translucent and semi-translucent enamels to create an effect of luminous depth and painterly vibration. The decoration is distinguished by a dense ornamental structure, finely executed partitions and masterful command of enamelling techniques, characteristic of the finest works of the Moscow artistic jewellery school of the late Imperial period. Hallmarks: Maker’s mark of the firm P.A. Ovchinnikov beneath the Imperial double-headed eagle, indicating Purveyor to the Russian Imperial Court; Moscow assay mark with a female head in kokoshnik facing left, in an oval cartouche, corresponding to the period 1899–1903; silver standard “84” zolotnik; maker’s mark “A.B.” – Alexander Bushkov, goldsmith working in the workshops of P.A. Ovchinnikov. Dimensions: Height 7cm; diameter 5.5 cm. Weight: 75.6 g. Condition: Good. Minor traces of wear and small enamel losses consistent with age. Provenance: Private European collection.

Estimate:£1,673.43

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