208 - THE HOUSE OF CARL FABERGÉ

THE HOUSE OF CARL FABERGÉ ICON OF THE GUARDIAN ANGEL IN A SILVER FRAME. RUSSIA, ST PETERSBURG, 20TH CENTURY. A miniature icon depicting the Guardian Angel, set within a substantial silver frame executed in the tradition of early 20th-century Russian silversmithing. The Guardian Angel is depicted frontally, with wings outstretched behind him, wearing pale robes falling in softly modelled folds. In his right hand he holds a gold cross, while his left hand is extended in a gesture of blessing. The face is distinguished by delicate modelling, a serene expression and carefully rendered features. The green background accentuates the luminous figure, surrounded by a golden halo. Above the halo is the inscription “Guardian Angel” in Russian. Of particular artistic merit is the silver frame, conceived with a distinctly architectural composition. Its corners are embellished with raised foliate scrolls combined with geometric ornament. The interplay of smooth and textured surfaces, pronounced relief decoration and the contrast between polished areas and darkened recesses lend the frame a decorative character associated with Russian Art Nouveau. The reverse is covered in brown fabric. Marks: Mark “ФАБЕРЖЕ” (FABERGÉ) beneath the double-headed eagle; official assay mark of the St Petersburg Assay District, comprising a female head wearing a kokoshnik facing right, the Greek letter “α” (alpha), and the silver standard mark “84” in the Russian zolotnik system (875/1000). Dimensions: 8 × 8 cm. Condition: Good. Width: 8cm, Height: 8cm, Depth: 1.5cm, Weight: 0.2kg, Condition: Good, with traces of use, Material: Silver 84, ID: ID-ANTQ-17254