Lot 663
  • 663

A set of four parcel-gilt silver double salts from the Maria Nikolaevna service, Samuel Arndt, St Petersburg, 1857

Estimate
10,000 - 15,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • width of each: 16.5cm, 6 1/2 in
the bowls formed as shells flanking a central cartouche engraved MN in Cyrillic beneath the Imperial crown, the reverse with the Imperial eagle, below an openwork rocaille scroll handle, scroll feet, 84 standard

Provenance

Grand Duchess Maria Nikolaevna of Russia (1819-1876)

Condition

Excellent condition with wear to gilding, minor surface scratches consistent with age and use.
"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."

Catalogue Note

Maria Nikolaevna was the eldest daughter of Nicholas I and Alexandra Fedorovna and, of the couple's three daughters, was most like the emperor in looks and temperament.  Following the death of her first husband, Maximillian, Duke of Leuchtenberg, in 1852, she married Count Grigory Stroganov secretly in 1854 and officially in 1856.  She served as president of the Academy of Arts and director of the Patriotic Institute, which educated the daughters of officers killed in battle.