Lot 373
  • 373

A JEWELLED GOLD AND SILVER MAID OF HONOUR CYPHER, CARL BLANK, ST PETERSBURG, CIRCA 1913 |

Estimate
25,000 - 35,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • height 7.5cm, 3in.
formed as initials M and A for Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna and Empress Alexandra Feodorovna below a hinged Imperial crown surmount, set with circular- and rose-cut diamonds in gold-backed silver mounts, apparently unmarked, numbered 394, with original silk ribbon

Provenance

Presented to Baroness Elizabeth von Hoyningen-Huene on 11 February 1914

Condition

Excellent condition, one diamond replaced.
"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

This cypher is recorded in the Imperial ledgers with the Cabinet's number 419 as having been purchased from Blank for 620 roubles, the initial entry dated 15 May 1913.  The name of the recipient, the date of presentation and that it was a double cypher for both Empresses are noted.  The cypher is also recorded on an invoice from Blank to the Cabinet with the retailer's number 394 noted.   For further information on Maids of Honour and their role, please see U. Tillander-Godenhielm, The Russian Imperial Award System, 1894-1917, Helsinki, 2005, pp. 31-45.  Sotheby's is grateful to Dr Tillander-Godenhielm for her assistance in cataloguing this lot.