148 - ENAMEL MINIATURE

ENAMEL MINIATURE POCKET WATCH IN A GOLD CASE WITH A PORTRAIT OF EMPEROR ALEXANDER I. COURVOISIER FILS SWITZERLAND, CHAUX-DE-FONDS, CIRCA 1815 - 1825. Portrait pocket watch depicting Emperor Alexander I in a gold case with its original Russian dress chain, representing a rare memorial and artistic testament to the era of the Napoleonic Wars and the subsequent Congress of Vienna. An outstanding example of Swiss horological art of the first quarter of the 19th century, created in the workshop of Courvoisier Fils in Chaux-de-Fonds, combining mechanical precision with the political iconography of its time. The enamel dial features a finely executed miniature portrait of Alexander I in full ceremonial uniform adorned with orders, rendered with remarkable detail in delicate enamel painting. Roman numerals, a subsidiary seconds dial at the 6 o’clock position, and elegant gilt hands lend harmonious balance to the composition. The portrait is seamlessly integrated into the surface of the dial, forming a unique synthesis of memorial medallion and functional timepiece. The reverse cover is decorated with an exquisitely engraved panoramic view of Saint Petersburg, depicting the Winter Palace, the embankment of the Neva River and the architectural ensemble of the imperial capital. The inscription PETERSBOURG is engraved below. The ornamental frame is executed in the Empire style with a vegetal border and a radiating sunburst motif emerging from the center of the composition. The high quality movement with bridge construction and ruby jewels bears the engraved inscription: B. Courvoisier à Tunsberg et huit trous en rubis, Chaux-de-Fonds, No. 14878. The watch is accompanied by its original Russian 56 standard gold dress chain and a hand finished winding key. The original fitted case with dark blue velvet lining has been preserved. Hallmarks: Case: Swiss 585 standard (14K), assay marks. Chain: partially legible marks, maker’s mark HC, Saint Petersburg coat of arms, Russian 56 standard (18K), marks on clasp and link. Dimensions: Watch: diameter 46 mm. Chain: length 154 cm. Weight: Watch: 53.51 g. Chain: 38.45 g. Condition: Excellent. The case, movement, enamel dial with miniature, chain and fitted case are preserved in authentic collector’s condition, without losses or later interventions. Provenance: Christie’s Auction, Rome, Palazzo Massimo Lancellotti branch. Width: 4.6cm, Height: 4.6cm, Depth: 1.1cm, Weight: 0.053kg, Condition: Good, Material: Gold, ID: ID-ANTQ-12297