Empress Alexandra Feodorovna: A Russian Imperial Fabergé Silver Presentation Kovsh Fabergé, Moscow, 1899-1908 8-1/8 x 11-1/2 x 17-3/4 inches (20.6 x 29.2 x 45.1 cm) 2476 grams (79.60 troy ounces) PROVENANCE: A Washington state private collection; John Atzbach Antiques, Bellevue, Washington, acquired from the above; Acquired from the above by the present owner. Of monumental and traditional form, the hooked handle of this kovsh is masterfully cast and chased with the head of a warrior (bogatyr), and the prow takes the form of a draped heraldic Romanov griffin head, his beak open to form a spout above an engraved imperial double-headed eagle. The body of the work is engraved in Russian "From Her Imperial Majesty / the Lady Empress Alexandra Feodorovna." Works of this type were frequently presented by the Imperial couple. A virtually identical kovsh without Imperial provenance, with strapwork rather than entrelac, and set with gems is in the collection of the Walters Art Museum, Baltimore, Maryland, (Acc. No. 57.1920), and was exhibited 2003-2004 "The Fabergé Menagerie". Masterpieces of Russian Enamel from an Important American Collection HID12401132022 © 2024 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved