A bowenite carved figure of a Kingfisher, circa 1900

the eyes set with demantoid garnets

Munich, Kunsthalle der Hypo-Kulturstiftung, Fabergé Hofjuwelier de Zaren, 5 December 1986 - 22 February 1987, cat. no. 307 
Munich, Kunsthalle der Hypo-Kulturstiftung, Fabergé-Cartier Rivalen am Zarenhof, 28 November 2003 - 12 April 2004, cat. no. 370

Géza von Habsburg, Fabergé Hofjuwelier de Zaren, Munich, 1986, pp. 194-5
Géza von Habsburg, Fabergé-Cartier Rivalen am Zarenhof, Munich, 2003, p. 255

In apparent good condition.
"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."

The flat-front of this kingfisher suggests that it could be alternatively placed on the rim of a vessel, seemingly in the act of drinking.

For another example of a kingfisher designed to rest in two positions, see Géza von Habsburg, Fabergé-Cartier Rivalen am Zarenhof, Munich, 2003, cat no. 319. The stylised design of these birds may be compared with a kingfisher in the British Royal Collection, no. RCIN 40387, which was purchased by King Edward VII in 1907 for £25 5s. Fabergé referred to kingfishers as 'ice-birds'.