136 - JOSEPH MARSHAK JEWELLERY HOUSE

JOSEPH MARSHAK JEWELLERY HOUSE SILVER SNUFF BOX WITH BLUE GUILLOCHÉ ENAMEL. FIRM OF I. MARSHAK ST PETERSBURG, 1899–1908. An elegant rectangular silver snuff box, executed by the silversmith Ivan Savelyevich Britsyn for the firm of Joseph Abramovich Marshak in St Petersburg. The lid is decorated with deep blue guilloché enamel forming a radiating sunburst pattern, converging toward a central accent set with a diamond, interpreted as a symbolic representation of a luminary. The composition is further enhanced by finely executed laurel garlands in two-colour gold, emphasising the ceremonial and status-driven character of the object. The strict geometry of the form, combined with restrained ornamentation and the noble contrast of enamel and precious metals, reflects the aesthetics of late Imperial jewellery art at the turn of the 20th century. The sides are adorned with delicate guilloché engraving, creating a refined play of light. The interior is fully gilded, in keeping with the highest standards of manufacture for luxury silver objects of the period. Marks: Maker’s mark “I. MARSHAK” of the firm of Joseph Abramovich Marshak, St Petersburg; St Petersburg assay mark with silver fineness “88” and kokoshnik head; Master’s mark “I.B” corresponding to Ivan Savelyevich Britsyn. Dimensions: 7 × 3.7 × 1.5 cm. Weight: 150 g. Condition: Good collector’s condition. Provenance: Private collection. Width: 7cm, Height: 1.5cm, Depth: 3.7cm, Weight: 0.15kg, Condition: Very good, Material: Gold, BRILLIANT-CUT DIAMOND, Gilding, Silver 88, Guilloché enamel, ID: ID-ANTQ-3760