An ivory commemorative medal, 1782

very finely carved to one side with a portrait bust of Catherine II inscribed in Cyrillic, Her Imperial Highness Catherine II, Empress of All Russia, to the other with a carved representation of Falconet's statue of Peter I, dated and inscribed in Cyrillic 6 August 1782, with silver mount and suspension loop, held in a fitted case

In overall good condition. Some minor losses to the silver mount. Minor wear 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."

The Cyrillic inscription suggests that this medal was produced to commemorate the opening of the monument to Peter the Great. In the middle of the 18th century Catherine II decided to erect the monument to her famous predecessor Peter I. The philosopher Deni Didro in one of his letters to the Empress recommended the French sculptor Etienne Falconet to her. The Empress followed his advice and invited Falconet to visit Russia. The construction of the monument took over sixteen years and in August 1782 the finished statue was unveiled in a ceremony with thousands in attendance. Interestingly, the sculptor Falconet was not present at the opening ceremony. His absence is believed to have been due to a cooling in relations between the sculptor and his patron.