15 - GRACHEV BROTHERS FIRM

GRACHEV BROTHERS FIRM IMPORTANT SILVER-GILT PRESENTATION EWER WITH MARINE ALLEGORY GRACHEV BROTHERS FIRM SAINT PETERSBURG, RUSSIA, 1884. An important monumental silver-gilt presentation ewer of baluster form, executed in the traditions of Neo-Rococo and Historicism. The richly gilded body is decorated with an elaborate sculptural composition depicting putti, dolphins, hippocampi, tritons, shells and luxuriant aquatic foliage. A high-relief frieze with cupids playing among waves and reeds encircles the body, creating a complete allegorical representation of the marine realm. The sculptural handle is modelled as a sea nymph with a fish tail, transforming into a rocaille scroll surmounted by a figure of a putto holding a vessel. The upper section is decorated with the figure of a child seated upon a hippocampus. The base is supported by three figures of putti positioned among shells and fantastic sea creatures. The exceptional quality of the silver casting, deep repoussé work, meticulous hand finishing and virtuoso attention to the smallest details demonstrate the highest level of craftsmanship and place this object among the most prestigious creations produced by the Grachev Brothers firm. Marks: Maker’s mark «ГРАЧЕВЪ» for the Grachev Brothers firm; oval workmaster’s mark «ИО» - Johan Olsonius; silver standard mark «84»; Saint Petersburg assay marks, 1884. Dimensions: Height: 43.5 cm. Width: 21.5 cm. Weight: 5490.7 g. Condition: Good collector’s condition. The original gilding is preserved. Minor signs of age and natural patina consistent with the history of the object. No visible losses to the decorative elements. Provenance: Private European collection. Previously Christie’s auction. Width: 21.5cm, Height: 43.5cm, Depth: 21.5cm, Weight: 5.490kg, Condition: Good, with traces of use, Material: Silver 84, ID: ID-ANTQ-16507