Silver Salt Shaker In The Shape Of A Throne, Neo-russian Style, By Alexei Petrovich Frolov, Moscow, 1890

A rare Russian silver salt shaker crafted in the form of a ceremonial throne by the Moscow master silversmith Alexei Petrovich Frolov in 1890. This work is a remarkable example of the late 19th-century Neo-Russian style, in which the decorative art traditions of old Russia were elegantly reinterpreted in prestigious silverwork.

The architectural composition takes the form of a miniature throne with a high, openwork backrest, richly adorned with geometric and solar motifs, diamond-shaped cartouches, pierced decorations, and stylized architectural elements inspired by the wooden architecture of ancient Russia, religious sculpture, and medieval princely palaces. The symmetrical decoration of the backrest lends this small piece a monumental presence and a particularly harmonious balance.

The rectangular salt container is fitted with a hinged lid. Its interior retains its original gilding, applied to protect the silver from the corrosive effects of salt while emphasizing the object’s precious nature. The base, composed of successive tiers with characteristic cutouts, evokes the architecture of ancient Russian princely chambers and reinforces the architectural character of the piece as a whole. The surfaces are finely worked using repoussé, engraving, and ajourage techniques, illustrating the high technical skill achieved by Muscovite goldsmiths of this period.

Salt cellars of this type are among the most sought-after examples of historicist Russian goldsmithing. With its original design, the exceptional quality of its craftsmanship, and the remarkable preservation of its interior gilding, this example is of major interest to both museum collections and major private collections.

Hallmarks: Master’s mark “А.Ф. ”—Alexei Petrovich Frolov. Moscow assay mark dated 1890. Silver fineness: 84 zolotniki. Later export mark “875.”

Dimensions: Height: 10 cm. Width: 8 cm. Depth: 6 cm.

Weight: 123 g.

Condition: Very good condition. Slight signs of wear consistent with its age. Interior gilding well preserved. Hinge in perfect working order.

Provenance: European private collection.

ID-ANTQ-16559