Antique Russian Silver Enamel Sugar Tongs Cloisonne - Maria Semenova c.1900

Description and Details 

We are delighted to offer this beautiful antique Imperial Russian solid silver cloisonné sugar tong, made c.1900 by Maria Semenova, Moscow. 

The magnificent polychrome and vibrant cloisonne-work, typical of Semenova's work is splendid even on a single sugar tong. In spite of what could be a very bland and utilitarian item, it has been decorated and treated as an object of vertu to display a high degree of craftsmanship, artistry and design.

Such contrast and artistic juxtaposition between utility and ornamentation is particularly delightful on these pieces and serves as a wonderful aesthetic contrast in interior settings among other silverware or as a highlighting piece on a table. The colourful enamel and delicacy are almost jewel-like and would also gracefully complement jewellery collections.

The inner side of the tongs has been silver-gilt and the top portions have been applied with gorgeous enamelling with a range of vivid colours, each immaculately filled in each 'cloison' (the compartment between the twist rope borders) shaped as various scrolls and foliate motifs. 

Overall, the quality feel in hand, intricate silverwork and the colourful enamelling are delightful and make a splendid collectable and display of fine Imperial Russian silverware.

The tong is marked with a Russian 84 kokoshnik hallmark along with the maker's mark "MC". 

*Please note: all images with other items are for display purposes only, this listing is for the title item only. 

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