Maison Ovchinnikov, Moscow, A Polychrome Cloisonné-enamelled Gilt-silver Kovsh, 1911

Maison OVCHINNIKOV, Moscow
Refined Traditional Kovsh with a Single Handle and Flat Bottom in Vermeil (silver gilt), entirely decorated in polychromy with cloisonné enamels featuring geometric motifs and foliate scrolls of neo-Russian inspiration in turquoise blue, royal blue, green, white, and red nuances, the border and handle heightened with pearl friezes and enameled rosettes.
Russian hallmarks under the base: name of the Court Supplier in Cyrillic « П. ОВЧИННИКОВЪ » (P. Ovchinnikov) under the Imperial Printer's warrant (double-headed eagle), standard 84 zolotniks hallmark with man's head turned to the right and Greek letter (Moscow, 1899–1908).
Commemorative engravings under the base: "Moscow" and date "1911".
Russia, Moscow, late 19th – very early 20th century.
Former provenance: Christie's Sale
L 17 cm, H 8.5 cm (approximately)
Perfect condition.

Founded by Pavel OVCHINNIKOV (1830–1888) in 1853, the House of Ovchinnikov was, alongside Fabergé and Khlebnikov, one of the most prestigious Suppliers to the Imperial Court of Russia. The manufactory particularly distinguished itself in the renaissance of traditional Russian arts, becoming the undisputed master of cloisonné enamel in the neo-Russian style. The kovsh, a traditional boat-shaped vessel formerly carved from wood, became under their hands a prestige art object and a highly sought-after diplomatic or commemorative gift.
This remarkable piece signed Ovchinnikov captivates with the brilliance of its cloisonné enamels, its elegant form, and its prestigious history materialized by its Christie's provenance.