Silver Glass Holder With Relief Medallions In The Neo-russian Style. Saint Petersburg, 1879

Silver glass holder made in Saint Petersburg in 1879, representative of Russian silverwork from the last quarter of the 19th century, combining a utilitarian form with historicizing decoration inspired by the Russian national artistic tradition.

The cylindrical body rests on a wide, flared base, punctuated by engraved vertical bands. The upper and lower sections of the sides are framed by geometric friezes composed of stylized battlements. The central decorative band consists of applied circular medallions set within crenellated frames. The medallions feature relief busts of figures dressed in historical Russian costumes, alternating with protruding hemispherical elements. The repetition of these motifs creates a distinct decorative rhythm around the entire circumference.

The tall side handle is distinguished by its elaborate architectural design. Its upper section combines tiered geometric elements with an arched motif, while its lower attachment to the body is complemented by a chain of circular links. The vertical handle takes the form of an elongated, streamlined baluster. The combination of architectural motifs, historical figures, and geometric ornamentation gives the object the national-romantic character characteristic of Russian historicism.

The interior is gilded. The contrast between the gilded interior, the patinated silver, and the relief decoration accentuates the object’s sculptural quality.

Hallmarks: On the inside of the base: the master’s mark “МИ” in a rectangular cartouche, attributed to Mikhail Yakovlevich Isakov, owner of a workshop specializing in gold and silverwork; combined St. Petersburg hallmark indicating a fineness of 84 zolotniki, accompanied by the initials “И·Е” of master assayer Ivan Evstigneev, the date “1879,” and the city’s coat of arms.

Dimensions: Height 11 cm; diameter 9.3 cm; width including the handle 13.5 cm.

Weight: 337 g.

Condition: Good condition, consistent with the object’s age. Natural patina. The interior gilding is preserved. The relief and engraved decoration is well preserved.

ID-ANTQ-16558