34 - PAINTED ENAMEL

PAINTED ENAMEL SILVER CIGARETTE CASE AND MATCHBOX WITH CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL.MOSCOW, MASTER V. AKIMOV, 1899–1908. A refined silver cigarette case and matchbox, produced at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries in the Moscow workshop of Vladimir Akimov. Lavishly decorated with delicate cloisonné enamel over a gilt ground, the items feature finely painted floral garlands and scrolling acanthus in soft pastel hues. The central cartouches present maritime scenes with sailing ships, adding a romantic accent and underlining the aristocratic taste of the owner. A beaded border of white enamel enhances the volume and refinement of the composition. Housed in the original wooden case with red velvet lining. Hallmarks:Moscow district assay office hallmark of the period 1899–1908, depicting a female head in kokoshnik facing left, in an oval reserve, with the initials of the assay master Ivan Sergeyevich Lebedkin and the number 84 indicating silver fineness. Makers mark VA in a rectangular reserve, attributed to silversmith Vladimir Nikitich Akimov. Dimensions:Cigarette case: 9 × 7.5 × 1.5 cm; Matchbox: 6 × 4 × 2 cm Weight:Total gross weight: 259 g (cigarette case – 190 g; matchbox – 69 g) Condition:Good collectible condition. Enamel and gilding well-preserved, no significant losses. Original case with minor age-appropriate signs of use.Provenance:Private collection. Sale: Sotheby’s Olympia, Russian Pictures, Works of Art and Icons, 20 May 2005, Lot 28. Width: 18cm, Height: 4cm, Depth: 14cm, Weight: 0.574kg, Condition: Good, Material: Silver 84, Cloisonné enamel, ID: ID-ANTQ-12284