A Russian Gilded Silver and Niello Tankard, Maria Semenova, Moscow, 1893

of tapering, cylindrical form with a band of niello strapwork between reeded bands, also with two circular cartouches, one with a view of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior and the other with the Moscow Kremlin, both in niello, the upper border engraved with a Russian aphorism encouraging the reader to value love and friendship over the pleasures of beer and mead; the scroll handle and hinged cover with conforming decoration, the lid also with the Cyrillic monogram GG, the handle with pierced thumbpiece and faceted rim, the interior of the lid with extensive dedicatory inscription to an officer from his colleagues, later partially effaced

some rubbing to surface consistent with age; the original recipient's surname roughly removed
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.