GOLD CIGARETTE CASE WITH IMPERIAL DOUBLE-HEADED EAGLE. BY KARL BLANK. SAINT PETERSBURG, 1904–1908

Carl Blank - Helsingfors (Helsinki), Grand Duchy of Finland — An Outstanding Jeweler of the Late 19th and Early 20th Century Carl Blank′s name is synonymous with exquisite craftsmanship, artistic perfection, and unwavering dedication. A native of Finland, he built his career in Saint Petersburg, creating masterpieces worthy of the Imperial Court and gaining international acclaim. Early Years and Career Beginnings In 1885, Carl Blank established his first jewelry workshop on Gorokhovaya Street, 36. The small team consisted of eight artisans and three apprentices working with 56-zolotnik gold and 84-zolotnik silver. From the outset, Blank distinguished himself as a master capable of transforming precious metals into true works of art. Collaboration with the K. Hahn Firm In 1892, Blank joined the renowned jewelry company K. Hahn, one of Saint Petersburg′s leading workshops. He specialized in creating unique pieces for high society and the Imperial Court. By 1909, Carl became a partner of Dmitry Karlovich Hahn, who had inherited the firm from his father. After Hahn’s death in 1911, Blank continued the legacy, establishing his own workshop on Catherine Canal, 23. International Acclaim Carl Blank′s craftsmanship earned recognition beyond the Russian Empire. At the 1896 Chicago World′s Fair, the K. Hahn firm’s products, including Blank’s creations, received the highest honors. This success granted the company the right to use the Russian Imperial State Emblem on its works—a supreme mark of quality and trust. By 1917, the firm’s logo included two coats of arms, symbolizing international recognition and prestige. Imperial Commissions As an official supplier to the Cabinet of His Imperial Majesty, Carl Blank crafted masterpieces for Russian aristocracy. Among his distinguished commissions were diamond insignias, pectoral crosses, and court lady’s bows. One of his most notable creations was a gold cigarette case made for Nicholas II at the request of Empress Maria Feodorovna. This exquisite piece, adorned with dark blue enamel and a double-headed eagle of diamonds, epitomized refined taste and superior craftsmanship. Highest Honors and Recognition In 1915, Carl Blank was officially appointed as an appraiser for the Cabinet of His Imperial Majesty, marking the pinnacle of his professional career. His works, awarded at exhibitions in Russia and abroad, were celebrated for their technical excellence, aesthetic sophistication, and cultural significance. Notable Creations Imperial Cigarette Case (1897): Dark blue enamel, diamonds, almandine. Order of St. Vladimir, 3rd Class (circa 1895): Gold, enamel, diamonds. Snuffbox with Guilloché Enamel (1896): Gold, enamel, precious stones. Court Lady′s Monogram (1905): Gold, diamonds, rubies. Russian Vodka Cup with Crest (1890): Silver, enamel. Hallmarks and Uniqueness Carl Blank’s hallmark, "C.B.", became a symbol of supreme quality, craftsmanship, and artistic brilliance. It was used both during his tenure at the K. Hahn firm and after he established his own workshop. Every piece bearing this hallmark stands as a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication to the art of jewelry making.