A silver-gilt presentation kovsh, St Petersburg, period of Elizabeth I (1741-1761)

of typical form, the basin embossed with the Imperial Eagle, the crowned handle chased with a portrait bust of Elizabeth I within scrolling foliate surround, the sides with typical Cyrillic inscriptions and a continuous band By Grace of God We Elizaveta Petrovna express our good will to the Cossack chieftain Petr Denisov for his past services in our name and give him this kovsh, with Imperial Eagle finial, the underside of the handle with later inscription in Cyrillic 

The gilding appears to be in good condition and is most likely to have been re-gilded at a later date. Some wear to the underside consistent with age and use. Light surface scratches.
"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."