Antique Imperial Russian Solid Silver Niello Vesta Case with Fine Engravings - 19th Century

Description and Details 

We are delighted to offer this intricate and distinguished antique Imperial Russian vesta case. 

The case is beautifully decorated with contrasting hand-engraved silver and niello with the entire exterior featuring floral and foliate scrolls and motifs.Most impressively, despite the seemingly natural flowing and asymmetric engravings, the section at which the lid and base join, the engravings line up perfectly regardless of which way the lid is fitted on. This minute yet incredible attention to detail is truly a delight upon seeing in person and presents the high level of artistry on this piece. Furthermore, the lid slides on/off in such a perfect and smooth manner that it creates a slight vacuum/airtight seal effect yet does not have any uncomfortable resistance.The level of detailing and intricacy of the hand engravings is also particularly impressive considering the limited space and the slight curvature of the vesta case. 

There is only a maker's mark which is indistinct, possibly for Molochkov Mikhail Yakovlevich (МЯМ -1808-1824) which would indicate this item would have been made in Moscow.

Size