[M] A LARGE RUSSIAN SILVER-GILT AND CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL CEREMONIAL KOVSH BY GRACHEV BROTHERS, ST PETERSBURG, CIRCA 1892

A LARGE RUSSIAN SILVER-GILT AND CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL CEREMONIAL KOVSH BY GRACHEV BROTHERS, ST PETERSBURG, CIRCA 1892

decorated with flowers, figures and mythical beasts, stamped under base with maker's and Imperial Warrant marks, flat handle stamped for '88' Standard on the underside with raised silver plaque monogrammed 'MAR' supported by a scaly dragon neck, contained within plush-lined fitted case of issue with makers emblem inside lid and brass drop handles, the kovsh -- 15in. (38cm.) wide; 1640g.; the case -- 9 x 17½ x 10in. (23 x 44.5 x 25.5cm.)

The Worshipful Company of Shipwrights, presented in 1972 by C.H. Roberts, Liveryman.

The Grachev Brothers (founded 1866), close contemporaries Carl Fabergé, were renowned silversmiths from St. Petersburg, Russia, gained recognition for their exceptional craftsmanship in the field of metalworking. Specialising in silver, they created intricate, finely detailed pieces that showcased both artistic elegance and technical precision. Their works, ranging from ornate jewellery to elegant tableware, were highly sought after and praised for their refinement. In 1892 they were granted the title of Imperial Court Supplier and allowed to use the Imperial Warrant as part of their hallmark, as seen on this lot. Their pieces are found in private collections worldwide, including the British Royal Collection. The firm closed in 1918.