Bidspirit auction | SILVER-GILT SUGAR BASKET. MATVEY NIKIFOROV.

SILVER-GILT SUGAR BASKET. MATVEY NIKIFOROV. MOSCOW, 1875 - A rare silver sugar basket of 84 zolotnik (875 standard), fully gilded, crafted in Moscow in 1875 by master silversmith Matvey Nikiforov. The surface is decorated in trompe l’oeil technique, skillfully imitating woven textile patterns, producing a striking visual illusion. The intricate ornamentation covers the entire body and the articulated arched handle, emphasizing the unity of form and artistic intention.The piece features a slightly trapezoidal form with gently curved sides. Both interior and exterior surfaces are entirely gilded, highlighting the object’s dual function as both utilitarian and ceremonial. This piece exemplifies the highest level of Moscow silversmithing from the second half of the 19th century, combining craftsmanship with refined aesthetic design. Hallmarks : Moscow assay office mark dated 1875 with initials of the assay inspector “IK”– Maker’s mark “МН” (Matvey Nikiforov), in Cyrillic– Silver standard mark “84” in a square cartouche Dimensions : Height with handle: 14 cm. Diameter: 10 cm. Weight: 293 g Condition :Excellent condition Condition : Excellent Style : Neo-Russian Country : Russia, Moscow Period : 19th century Warranty : Seller Warranty Material : Silver 84, Gilding Product sizes : Height - 14cm, Width - 10cm, Depth - 10cm Location : Gallery ”Antiqon”, Brivibas street 52, Riga, Latvia