Twelve Vermeilled And Nielled Silver Spoons, Moscow 1850

Set of 12 vermeil and nielloed silver spoons
Russia, Moscow, circa 1850

An impressive and elegant set of twelve solid silver spoons with a vermeil finish, finely adorned with high-quality niello work, attributable to the Moscow workshops around the mid-19th century.

Each spoon features an ovoid bowl, the reverse side of which is richly decorated with a stylized floral motif—composed of foliage, leaves, and small flowers—executed in black niello on a gold background. This technique, particularly prized in Imperial Russia, creates a visual contrast of great finesse and attests to a high level of craftsmanship.

The decorative composition, perfectly balanced and rigorously repeated across all pieces, reveals a consistent production of superior quality, intended for a wealthy clientele. The slender handles, subtly punctuated with rings, are topped with an elegant baluster motif, characteristic of Moscow-made pieces from this period.

Visible hallmarks include the fineness mark “84” (875/1000 silver) as well as 19th-century Moscow marks, confirming the set’s origin and date.

Presented in their original case, these spoons form a complete set that is highly sought after, both for their decorative quality and their remarkable condition.

CONDITION
Excellent overall condition. No deformation or damage. The gilding (vermeil) is well-preserved and uniform. The set is perfectly cohesive.

CHARACTERISTICS
- Origin: Russia, Moscow
- Date: circa 1850
- Material: solid silver (84 zolotniki – 875/1000), vermeil, nielloed decoration
- Number of pieces: 12
- Length: 12.5 cm
- Total weight (excluding case): 263 g
- Antique case

COMMENT

19th-century Russian sets in vermeil silver with niello decoration, particularly when complete and preserved in their original cases, are highly sought after by collectors of imperial silverware. Moscow, alongside Saint Petersburg, was one of the major centers of production, where the quality of craftsmanship and the richness of the decoration reached a particularly high level.

The presence of finely executed niello decoration, combined with the perfect uniformity of the twelve pieces, places this set in a superior category compared to more common productions. The well-preserved vermeil and the absence of a monogram further enhance its appeal on the international market.

Comparable sets, particularly when signed or attributed to prestigious houses, can command much higher prices. In this context, this set offers an excellent balance of quality, rarity, and value.