Bidspirit auction | SILVER SALT THRONE WITH PROVERB.

SILVER SALT THRONE WITH PROVERB. MASTER S. M. IKONNIKOV RUSSIA, MOSCOW, 1880 - An expressive example of Russian silverware from the second half of the 19th century, executed in the form of a ceremonial throne with a high sculptural back and a hinged lid. The salt throne derives from ancient Russian dining traditions, where salt occupied a position of honor at the table as a symbol of prosperity, hospitality, and domestic well-being. The composition is architecturally conceived, featuring a stepped base, a pronounced pedestal, and a richly articulated ornamental program. The decoration is executed in fine engraved technique and incorporates geometric bands, stylized vegetal motifs, and elements characteristic of the Pan-Slavic Revival. The sides of the backrest are adorned with fantastical birds rendered in a Neo-Russian ornamental idiom. The central field of the back is organized as an architectural portal with symbolic motifs referencing Old Russian decorative vocabulary. The interior of the salt compartment is fully gilded, emphasizing the ceremonial nature of the object. The inner surface of the hinged lid bears an engraved proverb: “Without salt and bread, a meal is only half complete, ” highlighting the philosophical and folkloric significance of the piece and its connection to traditional customs and domestic rituals. Marks: Maker’s mark “СИ” in a square - S. M. Ikonnikov, Moscow silversmith; Assayer’s mark with initials “A.A” above the date “1880” - Anatoly Apollonovich Artsybashev, Moscow assayer; Silver standard mark “84”; Moscow city mark depicting Saint George slaying the dragon. Dimensions: Height 10.5 cm; width 8.5 cm; depth 6 cm. Weight: 160 g. Condition: Good condition. Silver with natural patina. Gilding to the interior well preserved. Minor signs of age and careful use consistent with the period. Provenance: Private European collection. Condition : Good, with traces of use Style : Neo-Russian Country : Russia Period : 19th century Warranty : Seller Warranty Material : Silver 84, Gilding Product sizes : Height - 10.5cm, Width - 8.5cm, Depth - 6cm Location : Gallery ”Antiqon”, Brivibas street 52, Riga, Latvia