Discover how the value of similar works has evolved over the past 10 years. Art is not only beauty — it's an investment.
Discover how the value of similar works has evolved over the past 10 years. Art is not only beauty — it's an investment.
An elegant cylindrical silver cup with enamel and gilding, created in the workshop of Vasiliy Agafonov in Moscow, represents a characteristic example of Moscow silversmithing from the late nineteenth century. The piece demonstrates a carefully conceived decorative program and a high level of enameling craftsmanship typical of leading metropolitan workshops of the period.
The central area of the interior is adorned with a painted polychrome enamel scene depicting three little rabbits set against a landscaped background, executed with delicate modeling and a soft, harmonious color palette. The composition is framed by a double frieze of enamel “pearls” rendered in cloisonné technique in white and blue tones. The rim of the cup is enriched with a wide band of polychrome enamel decorated with floral motifs.
The exterior is embellished with a developed frieze of foliate ornament in polychrome cloisonné enamel applied over a matte, sandblasted ground, creating a striking contrast of textures. The decoration is further enhanced by a double row of enamel “pearls” in blue and turquoise hues. The cup rests on three ball feet, emphasizing its ceremonial and finished character.
Marks: Maker’s mark “VA” – Vasiliy Agafonov; Moscow city assay mark with the numeric designation “84” (84 zolotniks) and the city coat of arms depicting Saint George slaying the dragon and facing left, corresponding to the period of the 1880s–1890s.
Dimensions: Height: 3.5 cm. Diameter: 8.5 cm.
Weight: 115 g.
Condition: Good.
Provenance: Private European collection.
The Moscow school of artistic silver in the last third of the nineteenth century emerged as one of the leading centers of jewelry production in the Russian Empire. During this period, Moscow masters actively developed cloisonné and painted enamel techniques, enabling the creation of complex decorative and genre compositions tailored to the tastes of the affluent urban clientele. Enamel evolved into an independent artistic language, lending objects an intimate and pictorial character.
Vasiliy Semyonovich Agafonov is recorded as a merchant of the 3rd guild and the owner of a jewelry factory in Moscow operating from 1893 to 1916, employing up to 80 workers. His enterprise produced a wide range of silver objects, from small utilitarian and gift items to highly artistic works enriched with elaborate enamel decoration. The products of Agafonov’s workshop are distinguished by consistent quality, a thoughtful decorative program, and responsiveness to contemporary artistic trends of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
Such polychrome enamel cups were intended for representative use and often formed part of formal table or toilette ensembles. Today, works of this circle are regarded as significant collectible objects, illustrating the mature stage of Moscow silversmithing on the eve of the turn of the century.
Condition is good. Enamel inserts show no evident losses or cracks. Gilding is locally thinned. Signs of age and use are consistent with the period. No deformations or evidence of restoration observed.
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.
