Lot 134
  • 134

A Russian Carved Jasper Cameo of Alexander I, circa 1820

Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 USD
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Description

  • the gilded silver mounts 1853, probably Kazan, maker's mark apparently I.T.
  • Length 2 5/8 in.
  • 6.7 cm
the portrait after Fedor Petrovich Tolstoi's allegorical portrait of Alexander I as an ancient Russian helmeted warrior, the cameo mounted in the cover of a snuffbox, also with jasper base

Literature

The Russian sculptor and medal-maker Fedor Petrovich Tolstoi (1783-1873) created this image of Alexander I as a modern-day Rodomysl, an ancient Slavic pagan deity who personified courage and wisdom. It was the first in a series of twenty allegorical medallions Tolstoi created in response to Russia's victories in the Napoleonic Wars. See E.V. Kuznetsova, Fedor Petrovich Tolstoi, Moscow, 1997, pp. 55-56.

Condition

with small cracks in the base
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.