Sculptural Miniature “the Lumberjack.” Nichols & Plinke, Russia, Saint Petersburg.

An expressive cabinet sculpture, created in St. Petersburg at the Nichols & Plinke studio. The work is crafted from partially gilded silver and mounted on a polished lapis lazuli base. The scene depicts a woodcutter in the act of splitting a log. The figure is depicted in a dynamic pose, axe raised, conveying the intensity of the action.

The sculptor has carefully rendered the typical image of a Russian peasant: a long, belted shirt, boots, a beard, and expressive facial features. The scene takes place in a forest setting. The central element of the composition is a tree whose bark is finely carved in relief, topped by a crown of sculpted leaves and cones. At the base of the tree lie the figure’s personal belongings—a hat, coat, and travel bag—which reinforce the narrative quality of the scene.

The contrast between the deep blue of the lapis lazuli and the golden metal lends the composition a particularly expressive decorative quality, typical of the artistic productions of the St. Petersburg workshops in the second half of the 19th century.

Hallmarks: The letters “PK” in a rectangular cartouche, corresponding to the hallmark of the Nichols & Plinke workshop; fineness mark “84”; St. Petersburg municipal hallmark.

Dimensions: Height 13 cm; width 13 cm; depth 8 cm.

Weight: Gross weight 576 g.

Condition: Good overall condition. Gilding is uniformly preserved. Slight signs of age. Lapis lazuli base with no chips or cracks.

Provenance: Private collection.

ID-ANTQ-16252