A Fabergé gold-mounted enamel and hardstone cigarette case, workmaster Henrik Wigström, St Petersburg, 1908-1912

oval section, the lid and base enamelled in translucent green over moiré engine-turning, the ends set with milky agate panels, rose-cut diamond-set thumbpiece, struck with workmaster's initials and Fabergé, 88 standard, scratched inventory number 22568, in original Fabergé fitted wood case

Purchased by Count Benckendorff, Russian Ambassador to the Court of St James's, at Fabergé's London branch, 4 November 1912, for £30

There is restoration to the enamel at the edges of the surfaces. Slight lid closure gap.
"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 diplomat Count Alexander Konstantinovich Benckendorff (1849-1917) was well-acquainted with Fabergé's best objects, given his proximity to the firm's greatest patrons.  He served as Ambassador to Denmark from 1897 to 1903 and spent time at gatherings of the extended family of King Christian IX.  In London, where he was posted from 1903 until his death in 1917, he and his wife, Countess Sophie Shouvaloff, were favourites at Court and in Society.  He is credited with the establishment of the Anglo-Russian Entente of 1907, which affirmed relations between the two countries and led to the Triple Entente, the precursor of the Allied Powers in the First World War.

A Fabergé gold cigarette case from the Count's collection sold, Christie's London, 11 June 2008, lot 462, and a partial set of Fabergé silver flatware engraved with his arms sold, Christie's South Kensington, 15 December 2010, lot 831.