Grand Duke Michael Mikhailovich: A Fabergé Imperial Presentation silver cigarette case, workmaster August Hollming, St Petersburg

rounded rectangular form, the surface cast with reeded sunburst, the lid applied with crowned gold cypher MM, cabochon sapphire thumbpiece, gilt interior, struck with workmaster's initials and Fabergé in Cyrillic, 88 standard, partial scratched inventory number _33_?, London import marks for Fabergé, 1913, French import marks

Grand Duke Michael Mikhailovich (1861-1929)

Possibly presented to Mr Thomas, Secretary of the Hampstead General and North West London Hospital

Excellent condition, with minor surface wear and 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."

H. C. Bainbridge, in a letter dated 13 January 1914 (reproduced, A. K. Snowman, Carl Fabergé: Goldsmith to the Imperial Court of Russia, 1979, p. 120), wrote to Mr Thomas, 'I beg to inform you that, in accordance with the instructions of H.I.H. The Grand Duke Michael Michaelovitch, I have to-day sent you by registered letter post a silver cigarette case with gold monogram.'  Snowman illustrates (p. 121) another cigarette case with vesta compartment which may also be the object referred to in the letter.