An exceptional museum-quality pair of ceremonial tazzas, created in the workshop of the Bratya Grachevy firm, official Purveyors to the Imperial Court, and reflecting the highest achievements of Russian jewellery and silversmithing art of the late nineteenth century.
The composition is built on a striking contrast between the massive cut-crystal bowls and the sculptural silver stands, formed as stylised dolphins. The figures are rendered in dynamic movement, with finely chased scales and expressively modelled heads and fins. The dolphins’ tails support shell-shaped elements that form a refined transition between the stands and the bowls, lending the ensemble a harmonious and sculpturally unified silhouette.
Each stand rests on three twisted branches adorned with relief foliage, enhancing the organic quality and decorative richness of the design. The crystal bowls are executed in deep cut techniques, featuring star-shaped rosettes and geometric patterns that create a rich play of light and emphasise the ceremonial character of the objects.
Marks: Full maker’s mark “BR. GRACHEVY” with the double-headed eagle, characteristic of the Bratya Grachevy firm, Purveyors to the Imperial Court; state assay mark of the Saint Petersburg Assay Office with the “84” silver standard in an oval cartouche; assay mark with the coat of arms of Saint Petersburg, corresponding to the period of the late 1880s to early 1890s.
Dimensions: Height: 23 cm and 25.5 cm (including crystal bowls). Diameter of crystal bowl: 28.8 cm.
Weight: Total weight of the silver elements, excluding crystal bowls: 3944 g.
Provenance: Private European collection.
The Bratya Grachevy firm occupied a leading position in Russian silver production during the second half of the nineteenth century. Having obtained the prestigious title of Purveyors to the Imperial Court, the workshop produced objects of the highest standard intended for palace interiors, ceremonial halls and representative table settings. The firm’s works are distinguished by virtuoso chasing, sculptural modelling and a refined response to the artistic tastes of the imperial capital.
In the late 1880s and early 1890s, Russian decorative art increasingly embraced sculptural and allegorical motifs derived from classical and academic traditions. The dolphin, symbolising the sea, abundance and prosperity, became a favoured motif in ceremonial interior and table silver. Tazzas of this type functioned as centrepieces or independent decorative accents within grand interiors.
Comparable ceremonial tazzas with sculptural silver supports and crystal bowls are represented in the museum collections of Saint Petersburg, including the State Hermitage Museum and the State Russian Museum. Works by the Bratya Grachevy firm are regarded in the museum context as characteristic examples of Russian metropolitan silver of the late nineteenth century, created for aristocratic and courtly settings.
The synthesis of sculptural silver and richly cut crystal reflects the period’s aspiration to unite functionality with high artistic expression. Such works were produced in limited numbers or by special commission and are today recognised as significant monuments of Russian decorative art of the late nineteenth century.
Good condition. Silver with even age-related patina, without deformation or losses. Crystal bowls free from cracks and chips. Minor traces of use consistent with age, not affecting the overall decorative integrity or visual impact.
The condition report is provided for informational purposes only.
It is not comprehensive and may not reflect all defects, restorations, alterations, or adaptations, as Antiqon does not perform professional conservation-level assessments. The information is based on a qualified, yet subjective, evaluation by our specialists.Before purchasing, we recommend consultation with an independent expert.Please also consult our Terms and conditions and Glossary A-Z, which contain important information on lot characteristics and sale conditions.
