GOLD SNUFF BOX WITH A PORTRAIT OF ADMIRAL SEMYON IVANOVICH MORDVINOV. SAINT PETERSBURG, DAVID RUDOLPH, RUSSIA, 1780s

In the 18th century, snuffboxes were not only everyday accessories and fashionable items, but also symbols of prestige and state affiliation. Such gifts were often used as tokens of diplomatic favor and imperial esteem. The portrait of Admiral Semyon Mordvinov on the lid of this snuffbox is not only a fine miniature but also a symbolic act of commemorating the achievements of one of the key naval commanders of the Petrine and Catherinean era.

Mordvinov, a member of the noble Mordvinov family, embodied the continuity of Russia’s military and intellectual elite. Orphaned as a child, he was selected by Peter the Great and sent to the Naval Academy, and later to France for advanced training aboard French naval ships. Upon his return to Russia in 1722, Mordvinov quickly built a reputation as a talented and capable seaman. From 1726 onward, he sailed with Admiral Sinyavin’s squadron and later commanded the port of Astrakhan. For his success in navigation expeditions and his leadership during the Seven Years’ War — particularly his command of the Kronstadt squadron and the Siege of Kolberg — he was promoted to Rear Admiral. In 1761, he was appointed to the Admiralty Board. Under Peter III, Mordvinov was given full authority over the management of the Russian fleet.

Throughout his service, he was decorated with the Orders of St. Andrew the First-Called, St. Anna, and St. Alexander Nevsky. Mordvinov stood out for his high competence and strategic thinking. Among his many innovations were the introduction of barges for line ships and the creation of new navigational instruments, including a compass with an artificially magnetized needle.The enamel portrait on the lid of the snuffbox is based on a miniature preserved in the Pushkin State Museum of Fine Arts in Moscow, further enhancing the memorial and artistic significance of the object. The combination of portraiture, enamel, gold, and diamonds transforms the snuffbox into a museum-worthy artefact — a unique embodiment of the union between art, power, and historical memory in 18th-century Russian culture.

Excellent condition. Enamel, miniature, and gemstone mounts are preserved without signs of restoration or damage.

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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.