A magnificent gilded silver tea and coffee set created by the renowned Moscow firm of Pavel Ovchinnikov in the late 19th century, representing an outstanding example of Russian jewelry craftsmanship of the era. This refined ensemble, comprising a coffee pot, teapot, sugar bowl, cream jug, and a set of six spoons, embodies the essence of the Russian Revival style, combining national motifs, decorative richness, and exceptional technical execution.
Each piece is adorned with medallions depicting views of the Moscow Kremlin, executed in niello, one of the most intricate and elegant decorative techniques in silverwork. The niello ornamentation frames architectural scenes with a sense of depth and precision, while the gilding lends a warm tone that enhances the contrast and sculptural clarity of the forms.
The spoons feature miniature architectural scenes on the reverse, including St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Kremlin, the Ivan the Great Bell Tower, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the towers of Kitay-gorod, and panoramic views of Red Square. Each image is executed with exquisite precision characteristic of Ovchinnikov’s finest work. The set is preserved in its original fitted case, embossed in gold with the inscription “FROM THE STORE OF THE MANUFACTURER P.A. OVCHINNIKOV” beneath the Russian Imperial coat of arms, indicating its sale through the Imperial Court Supplier’s official shop.
Marks: Full and small maker’s marks of P. Ovchinnikov beneath a double-headed eagle, small mark “PO,” Moscow assay office mark with the stamp of Viktor Savinkov (active 1855–1888), dated 1872, state assay mark depicting St. George slaying the dragon, Russian 84 silver standard mark in a square shield with chamfered corners, later Latvian 875 mark with a girl’s head facing left (1922–1939) and the letter “A,” master’s mark “VS” for Vasily Semyonov.
Dimensions: Coffee pot 24.5 × 12.6 × 24.0 cm, Sugar bowl 17.5 × 18.0 × 12.2 cm, Cream jug 11.8 × 8.2 × 9.6 cm, Spoons 10.5 × 2 cm.
Weight: 1288 g
Materials: Silver 84 standard, gilding, niello, carving, casting, bone.
Condition: Good collector’s condition. Partial wear to gilding and minor traces of age on niello consistent with use. Ornamentation remains sharp and detailed. Original case preserved with gold embossing and velvet interior.
Provenance: Private European collection.
The firm of Pavel Ovchinnikov stands as one of the most significant phenomena in the history of 19th-century Russian decorative arts. Founded in 1853 in Moscow, it became a symbol of supreme craftsmanship and artistic excellence in the Russian style. Awarded the title of Purveyor to the Imperial Court, Ovchinnikov played a decisive role in shaping the national school of Russian silverwork, uniting traditional techniques with modern European design and metalworking innovations.
Particularly renowned was the firm’s mastery of niello on silver, which reached unparalleled refinement under Ovchinnikov’s direction. Drawing inspiration from ancient Yaroslavl and Veliky Ustyug traditions, the artisans achieved architectural precision and graphic depth in their compositions, transforming functional silverware into miniature works of art. Depictions of Moscow’s cathedrals and Kremlin panoramas carried symbolic significance, reflecting the spiritual grandeur and continuity of Russian culture.
At the World Exhibitions in Paris (1867, 1878) and London (1882), the firm received top awards and international acclaim. Its works were prized both in Russia and at European courts for their combination of technical perfection, national identity, and aesthetic elegance.
By the end of the 19th century, sets of this level were often commissioned as diplomatic or ceremonial gifts, frequently intended for members of the Imperial family or foreign dignitaries. Today, they are among the rarest surviving masterpieces of Moscow silverwork, representing the pinnacle of Russian applied art of the Imperial era.
Good collector’s condition. Minor wear to gilding and niello consistent with age. Shape, proportions, and decorative details fully preserved. Original case in good condition with light patina on the metal and fabric lining.
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.
