This very fine and massive antique Russian gilded silver and shaded cloisonne enamel kovsh with cabochon jewels was made in Moscow between 1899 and 1908 by Nicholas Alexeev. The lobed body is enameled with stylized flowers in the early 18th century taste on a gilded stippled ground.

Length 9 in. (22.6 cm). Width 6 in. (15 cm). Weight 564 g (19.9 oz).

Provenance:

Sotheby Parke Bernet sale, New York, June 8, 1978 lot 145.

Sotheby Parke Bernet sale, New York, November 29, 1978, lot 436.

Sotheby’s Russian Sale, New York, April 15-16, 2008, lot 441.

The handle is set with two green cabochon cut chrysoprases and a cabochon garnet.

Marked with 84 zolotnik old Russian silver standard (875 silver) with initials of Moscow assay master Ivan Lebedkin, and maker’s initials ‘H.A.’ for Nicholas Alexeev. Scratched inventory number C1571.

An exceptional quality cloisonne enamel work.