37 - FYODOR RUCKERT

FYODOR RUCKERT RUSSIAN ART NOUVEAU KOVSH WITH CLOISONNÉ ENAMELS. FYODOR RUCKERT RUSSIA, MOSCOW, 1908–1917. A museum-quality silver kovsh created in the workshop of Fyodor Ivanovich Ruckert, one of the most distinguished masters of the Moscow school of cloisonné enamel and the leading enameller for the firm of Carl Fabergé. While rooted in the traditional form of Russian ceremonial drinking vessels, the kovsh is here transformed into a refined work of decorative art, transcending its utilitarian origins. The cylindrical body with a softly profiled, undulating rim and a transverse heart-shaped handle forms a balanced and harmoniously proportioned silhouette. The entire exterior surface of the body and the upper plane of the handle are covered with finely executed cloisonné enamels, demonstrating an exceptional command of line and colour. The ornamental programme reflects Ruckert’s mature synthesis of geometric and vegetal motifs. A deep brown enamel ground, characteristic of the master’s oeuvre, provides a rich backdrop for vivid blue triangles, lozenges and lattice bands, complemented by stylised floral motifs in pink and light blue with turquoise accents. The composition is organised in rhythmically structured ornamental zones that emphasise the rounded form and create a sense of internal movement. The front and reverse are accentuated with geometric spirals, lozenges and triangular forms, interpretable as symbols of water, solar imagery and Northern ornamental traditions. Particularly striking are the applied silver elements in the form of droplets, crosses and grilles, which add depth, relief and a subtle play of light, enhancing the poetic association with the Russian North that is central to the aesthetics of Russian Art Nouveau. The interior is fully gilt, underscoring the ceremonial nature of the piece and confirming its status as a work of high artistic silver, intended primarily for representational and symbolic use. Marks: Maker’s mark with Cyrillic initials “FR” in a square punch – Fyodor Ivanovich Ruckert; Moscow assay mark with silver standard “88” and a female head facing right within an oval cartouche; Moscow city mark of the period 1908–1917. Dimensions: Height – 4.5 cm; diameter – 5 cm. Weight: 83 g. Condition: Good. Cloisonné enamels are vibrant and intact, without visible losses or chips. Minor signs of age and use consistent with the period. The interior gilding is evenly preserved. Provenance: Sotheby’s auction. Width: 8.5cm, Height: 4.5cm, Depth: 5cm, Weight: 0.083kg, Condition: Good, Material: Silver 88, Cloisonné enamel, ID: ID-ANTQ-8495