Lot 506
  • 506

A silver-gilt and cloisonné enamel teaset, 11th Artel, Moscow, 1908-1917

Estimate
15,000 - 20,000 GBP
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Description

  • height of teapot: 14cm, 5 1/2 in.
comprising: a teapot and sugar bowl with hinged lids, creamer, sugar tongs, tea strainer, fork and tea scoop, all similarly decorated with stylised, shaded enamel foliate and geometric motifs on grey grounds, 84 standard

Provenance

Acquired by the grandfather of the present owner circa 1910

Condition

Teapot: the handle where it is attached to the insulators is slightly loose. UV light reveals an area of translucent pigment to the central motif on one side of the pot, suggesting restoration. Otherwise in apparent good condition. Sugar bowl: UV light reveals a small area of translucent pigment to the reverse of the left handle, suggesting resoration. Otherwise in apparent good condition. Creamer: In apparent good condition. Height of creamer: 8cm, 3 1/8 in.; length of tea strainer: 15cm, 6in. Tea strainer: In apparent good condition. Tea scoop: In apparent good condition. Sugar tongs: In apparent good condition. Fork: In apparent good condition. Additional measurements: length of sugar bowl: 14cm, 5 1/2 in.; length of sugar tongs 13cm, 5 1/8 in.; length of fork 13cm, 5 1/8 in.; length of scoop 11cm, 4 3/8 in.
"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

In the beginning of the 20th century individual silversmiths, disgruntled with the working conditions at the larger firms, began to form their own artels or cooperatives. Amongst the best was the 11th Moscow Artel, known for its cloisonné enamels in the Neo-Russian style. The enamelling which completely covers the surface of the offered lot represents a typical example of their work. Like Feodor Rückert, the workmasters of the 11th Artel were influenced by Art nouveau, and their pieces often featured triangular and rectangular enamel cells, volutes, spirals and silver beads in muted grey, green, ochre, violet and cream colours.