146 - THE HOUSE OF CARL FABERGÉ

THE HOUSE OF CARL FABERGÉ GOLD CIGARETTE CASE, GABRIEL NUKKANEN, FABERGÉ, ST PETERSBURG, LATE 19TH CENTURY. A rectangular cigarette case with softly rounded corners, crafted in two-colour 56 zolotnik gold, is a refined example of late 19th century jewellery art, executed in St Petersburg by the master Gabriel Nukkanen for the firm of Carl Fabergé. The surface of the case is decorated with a regular geometric pattern of engraved hexagons with radiating fluting, creating a sophisticated interplay of light between rose and yellow gold. The clear rhythmic structure of the decoration lends the object architectural precision and emphasises the refined restraint of its artistic conception. The lid opens by means of a push-button clasp set with a natural ruby. The construction is further enriched with a diamond composition: a central diamond of approximately 0.45 carats, complemented by old-cut diamonds with a total weight of approximately 0.8 carats. Such integration of gemstones into functional elements is characteristic of Fabergé’s works, where utilitarian details are transformed into expressive decorative accents. The interior surface is finished in a matte texture, delicately treated to emphasise the nobility of the gold and to create a soft contrast with the elaborately decorated exterior. The construction demonstrates exceptional precision, characteristic of the highest level of Fabergé production. The use of two-colour gold and strict geometric ornament reflects the artistic tendencies of late 19th century jewellery, where priority was given to rhythm, symmetry and perfection of surface treatment. Marks: Maker’s mark “GN” for Gabriel Nukkanen, master of the Fabergé firm, St Petersburg; assay mark with the St Petersburg coat of arms and “56” zolotnik standard in an oval cartouche, pre-1899 period. Dimensions: 6 x 8.8 x 1.6 cm. Weight: 152 g. Condition: Good. Surface with light wear consistent with age. Mechanism and clasp in working order. Provenance: Private collection. According to family tradition, the piece was exported from Russia to Poland in 1917 during the migrations following the revolutionary events. Width: 6cm, Height: 8.5cm, Depth: 1.5cm, Weight: 0.152kg, Condition: Good, Material: BRILLIANT-CUT DIAMONDS, Gold 56, RUBY, ID: ID-ANTQ-16422