Large Table Lamp In Silver And Rhodonite. Nedmirov-kolodkin Workshop. Moscow, Circa 1890

A large table lamp made in the Moscow workshop of Nedmirov-Kolodkin around 1890, representing a remarkable example of Russian decorative arts from the historicist period and embodying the aesthetic of the Russian Neo-Empire style. The piece combines consummate mastery of silverwork with the exceptional decorative qualities of Ural rhodonite, one of the most prestigious Russian semi-precious stones used in the late 19th century.

The tall triangular column, carved from a deep-hued pink rhodonite, rises above a monumental, architecturally shaped base, lavishly adorned with cast silver elements. The composition is enriched with acanthus leaves, cartouches, volutes, garlands, and other ornamental motifs characteristic of the most representative works of the Nedmirov-Kolodkin workshop. The exceptional quality of the casting, the precision of the detailing, and the particularly expressive relief attest to the high standard of craftsmanship associated with suppliers to the Imperial Court.

The deep emerald-green pleated fabric shade completes the lamp’s architecturally structured and harmoniously proportioned silhouette. It is adorned with crowns, ribbons, and silver decorative elements that echo the stylistic vocabulary of the late 19th-century Russian Neo-Empire style. The contrast between the brilliance of the silver, the intense color of the rhodonite, and the dark hue of the green fabric creates a striking decorative effect, making the piece a true focal point in any interior.

Lamps of this type were intended for ceremonial rooms, palatial interiors, and the salons of wealthy urban residences, where the combination of silver and Ural rhodonite signified social status and the refinement of the decor. The object also illustrates the desire—characteristic of Russian decorative art in the second half of the 19th century—to combine native materials with a formal language derived from European decorative traditions.

Hallmarks: Large manufacturer’s mark in Cyrillic characters “Nedmirov-Kolodkin” accompanied by the inscription “Supplier to the Court of His Imperial Majesty.” Small workshop mark in a diamond shape “NNK.” Assayer’s mark “L.O.” above the date “1890,” attributed to an unidentified Moscow assayer active between 1890 and 1895. Fine-weight mark “84.” Official hallmark of the city of Moscow depicting Saint George facing left and slaying the dragon.

Dimensions: Height: 67 cm. Lampshade diameter: 38 cm.

Weight: Available upon request.

Condition: Good condition. Natural silver patina. Minimal signs of age, consistent with the period of manufacture. The rhodonite has no cracks or chips. The lampshade is a later replacement and is in excellent condition.

Provenance: European private collection.

ID-ANTQ-6066