3rd Nov, 2015 12:00
Maritime and Scientific Models, Instruments & Art ('Encounter')
240
[M] A RARE IMPERIAL RUSSIAN NAVAL SIGHTING COMPASS...
the 7in. mica-backed card signed and inscribed in Cyrillic, dated 1853 and inscribed in pencil 1278, double-headed eagle with naval crossed anchors at north, the rim edged with silvered brass and divided with reversed Roman numerals, jewelled suspension pivot and sealing wax balancing, mounted on a sprung steel pin within substantial silvered brass bowl with glazed bottom, removable glass top with folding sights (one missing), lacquered brass gimbal mounts within original wooden box with inset handles, securing hooks, brass makers plate and inscribed in ink K.V. No. 50, overall dimensions -- 12in. (30.5cm.) square
Andrew V. Samoilov (1790-1871) was born in St. Petersburg to a family of craftsmen. He entered the Admiralty and ran the instrument studio at the Izhora Factories from 1820 until his death, enjoying the right to add his personal mark to his output. He is considered the first and perhaps finest Russian master instrument maker in the first half of the 19th-century. The Izhora Factories, one of the oldest in Russia, were founded in 1722 by decree of Peter the Great and were the nucleus of Russian naval innovation manufacturing everything from forged anchors and anchor chains, stretched copper sheets for sheathing hulls, armor cladding, steam engines and navigational instruments.
Sold for £3,100
Estimated at £800 - £1,200
(inc. buyer's premium of 24%)
Condition Report
In excellent condition, the card still responds well to magnetic impulse. One sight is missing (as catalogued) and one corner post from the lid is also missing.
We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.
the 7in. mica-backed card signed and inscribed in Cyrillic, dated 1853 and inscribed in pencil 1278, double-headed eagle with naval crossed anchors at north, the rim edged with silvered brass and divided with reversed Roman numerals, jewelled suspension pivot and sealing wax balancing, mounted on a sprung steel pin within substantial silvered brass bowl with glazed bottom, removable glass top with folding sights (one missing), lacquered brass gimbal mounts within original wooden box with inset handles, securing hooks, brass makers plate and inscribed in ink K.V. No. 50, overall dimensions -- 12in. (30.5cm.) square
Andrew V. Samoilov (1790-1871) was born in St. Petersburg to a family of craftsmen. He entered the Admiralty and ran the instrument studio at the Izhora Factories from 1820 until his death, enjoying the right to add his personal mark to his output. He is considered the first and perhaps finest Russian master instrument maker in the first half of the 19th-century. The Izhora Factories, one of the oldest in Russia, were founded in 1722 by decree of Peter the Great and were the nucleus of Russian naval innovation manufacturing everything from forged anchors and anchor chains, stretched copper sheets for sheathing hulls, armor cladding, steam engines and navigational instruments.
Auction: Maritime and Scientific Models, Instruments & Art ('Encounter'), 3rd Nov, 2015
