A rare example of Russian jewelry art from the late 19th century — a decorative silver box in the Neo-Russian Renaissance style, created in 1882 at the Moscow workshop of the Imperial Court supplier Pavel Ovchinnikov.
The box is richly decorated with polychrome cloisonné enamel on a gilded background. Its square body with chamfered corners rests on four massive bird-claw feet reminiscent of rooster talons. Particular attention is drawn to the two side handles shaped as stylized rooster heads — a vivid example of Neo-Russian decorative vocabulary.
The sides are adorned with alternating arcades, floral elements, and stylized vegetal motifs. The lid is inlaid with a complex enamel medallion featuring a central monogram, framed by geometric and botanical ornaments in a blue-green palette. The interior is entirely gilded.
The piece embodies the stylistic aesthetics of Russian folklore and Orthodox symbolism, masterfully executed in precious material by the finest craftsmen of the late 19th century.
Marks: Moscow assay office, dated 1882, 88 standard silver, makers mark OVCHINNIKOV beneath the double-headed eagle — supplier to the Imperial Court.
Dimensions: Height: 6 cm. Width: 10 cm. Depth: 7 cm.
Weight: 287 g
Condition: Good overall condition. Minor enamel losses.
Provenance: Made by the firm of Pavel Ovchinnikov in Moscow, official supplier to the Imperial Court of Russia.
In the second half of the 19th century, Russia experienced a flourishing of the Neo-Russian style, inspired by medieval Russian architecture, folklore, and Orthodox symbolism. This artistic language found particular expression in the decorative arts and jewelry. One of its foremost exponents was the firm of Pavel Ovchinnikov, founded in 1851.
Ovchinnikov, a merchant turned master jeweler, combined the achievements of the Moscow niello tradition with Western European technical innovations and established an artistic movement rooted in national identity. In 1865, he received the right to use the state emblem in his hallmark and was appointed official supplier to the Imperial Court in 1881.
Ovchinnikov’s works are characterized by rich symbolism, multicolored enamel, exquisite filigree, and a recurring dialogue with Old Russian forms — from arched windows to mythical creatures. His boxes, ladles, and icon frames became not just household objects but cultural emblems of Imperial Russia.
This box is a unique example of that style — combining architectural motifs, vivid enamel, and decorative imagery. The rooster handles evoke the traditional Slavic symbol of protection and the sun, elevating the piece to a meaningful artifact of its era.
In good condition with minimal signs of wear. Minor enamel losses do not detract from the overall appearance. Clear hallmarks; interior gilding well preserved. A fine collectors piece.
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.
