A rare and unusual jasper presentation egg and cup, Imperial Lapidary Factory, Ekaterinburg, 1890

the eggcup in kalgan jasper finely carved with scrolling acanthus leaves, the underside with inscription in Cyrillic Ekaterinburg Imperial Lapidary Factory, Manager V. Mostovenko. 1890 , the cup in green jasper, held in original fitted case 

The egg-cup and egg are in apparent good condition. The case is a little worn on the outside. A very unusual and attractive piece.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

In 1885 at the age of thirty-six, Vasily Mostovenko became the general manager of the Ekaterinburg Lapidary Factory. At the time, the factory was already in a dilapidated state: 'flooring collapsed and machine tools were almost destroyed'. Mostovenko sought to improve the working conditions in the manufactory. By introducing the new stylistic elements he transformed the nature of stone carving in Russia and the objects manufactured at the Ekaterinburg Factory become a symbol of national prestige and pride. At the Paris World Fair in 1900, Russian stone-carving industry was represented by a magnificent mosaic map of France executed at the factory and Ekaterinburg Lapidary Factory achieved international recognition and Mostovenko was awarded the prestigious Legion of Honour Cross. The offered lot executed in 1890 at the height of Mostovenko's career demonstrates his fine craftsmanship and artistic virtuosity.