19 - MOSCOW JEWELLERY ARTELS

MOSCOW JEWELLERY ARTELS PAIR OF RUSSIAN SILVER SHOT CUPS IN THE ART NOUVEAU STYLE. FIFTH MOSCOW ARTEL. MOSCOW, 1908–1917. An elegant pair of Russian silver shot cups crafted by the Fifth Moscow Artel between 1908 and 1917. The pair is a fine example of Russian Art Nouveau silver, where naturalistic ornament is harmoniously combined with expressive sculptural form and refined silversmithing of the highest standard. Each shot cup features a gently flaring body raised on an openwork pierced foot, lending the silhouette a sense of lightness and decorative sophistication. The surface is richly ornamented with finely executed sunflower blossoms, foliage and stylised sunflower seeds, creating a balanced ornamental composition inspired by nature. The upper rim is enriched with a geometric ornamental border characteristic of Russian Art Nouveau, reinforcing the architectural clarity of the design. The artistic conception reflects the distinctive character of Moscow silver production during the early twentieth century, when master silversmiths sought to unite functionality with the flowing lines and organic vocabulary of the Art Nouveau movement. Combining elegant proportions with meticulous craftsmanship, these shot cups transcend their utilitarian purpose and stand as refined examples of Russian decorative arts. Hallmarks: Registered maker`s mark of the Fifth Moscow Artel; Imperial Russian official assay mark; 84 standard silver assay mark. Dimensions: Height: 6.5 cm. Weight: Total weight: 133 g. Condition: Very good condition with minor signs of age and use consistent with the period. Width: 5.5cm, Height: 7cm, Depth: 15cm, Weight: 0.133kg, Condition: Good, Material: Silver 84, ID: ID-ANTQ-6013