SILVER FIGURE, FABERGÉ DESK HARE-BELL WITH GARNET EYES HOUSE OF C. FABERGÉ, WORKSHOP OF Y. A. RAPPOPORT, RUSSIA, SAINT PETERSBURG, 1899–1908

The House of Carl Fabergé (1846–1920) epitomises the highest level of jewellery craftsmanship in the Russian Empire at the turn of the 20th century. In addition to its legendary Imperial Easter eggs, Fabergé produced so-called “small forms” — refined objets d’art including miniature animal sculptures, paperweights, desk bells, and electric bells. The workshop of Julius Alexandrovich Rappoport, working under the Fabergé name, was renowned for its exceptional rendering of metal textures, lifelike animal modelling, and refined artistic taste. Electric bells, where the utilitarian mechanism was seamlessly integrated into an elegant sculpture, were rare and usually commissioned for the luxurious interiors of the aristocracy. The French import mark of a swan, introduced in 1893, attests to the international circulation of Fabergé pieces. A closely related hare in the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (Thomas Pratt Collection) demonstrates the same superb technical and artistic mastery, making this example not only a valuable museum object but also a unique world-class collector’s piece.

Excellent condition; original internal mechanism complete and functional, garnet eyes intact, chasing and casting in outstanding preservation, marks partially legible.

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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.