Bidspirit auction | SILVER-GILT SALT THRONE, IVAN KHLEBNIKOV

SILVER-GILT SALT THRONE, IVAN KHLEBNIKOV FIRM, MOSCOW, 1875 - An exquisite silver-gilt salt cellar in the form of a throne represents a remarkable example of Russian decorative art, crafted in 1875 in the workshop of one of the most renowned Moscow jewellers of his time Ivan Khlebnikov, supplier to the Imperial Court. The body is shaped as a miniature throne with a high openwork back, adorned with pierced patterns of intertwined ribbons and stylized oak leaves. The seat bears an inscription in Old Slavonic style: “Without salt, without bread half a meal, ” a traditional proverb often used to decorate festive tableware. Finely executed engraving, a masterful interplay of polished and matte surfaces, and an even layer of gilding highlight the superior craftsmanship typical of Khlebnikov’s workshop. Beyond its functional purpose, this salt cellar embodies a symbolic and artistic object a token of hospitality and abundance, characteristic of Moscow’s interpretation of late 19th-century decorative modernity and the national revival style. Marks: Maker’s mark beneath the coat of arms of the Grand Duke “KHLEBNIKOV”; assay mark “V.S” above the line with date “1875” (Vasily Semyonov, Moscow assay master); State hallmark with St. George slaying the dragon and silver standard “84”. Dimensions: Height 8.5 cm; width 7 cm; depth 6 cm. Weight: 130 g. Condition: Good. Even gilding with light patina, no deformations or restorations. Minor age-consistent wear. Provenance: Private collection, Europe. Condition : Good Style : Neo-Russian Country : Russia Period : 19th century Warranty : Seller Warranty Material : Silver 84, Gilding Product sizes : Height - 8.5cm, Width - 7cm, Depth - 6cm Location : Gallery ”Antiqon”, Brivibas street 52, Riga, Latvia