Bidspirit auction | RUSSIAN IMPERIAL NIELLO SILVER CIGAR

RUSSIAN IMPERIAL NIELLO SILVER CIGAR CASE MOSCOW - An exceptional antique Imperial Russian 84 standard silver and niello cigar or cigarette case. Crafted in Moscow in the mid-to-late 19th century, the heavy case is entirely enveloped in masterful niello decoration. The primary faces feature elaborate foliate scrollwork framing central cartouches; the front depicts a galloping Cossack horseman, while the reverse shows a genre scene of two resting figures. The bottom edge is finely detailed with a miniature Russian cityscape, and the sides feature a geometric woven pattern. The interior retains a bright gold wash. Fully hallmarked on both inner lips with the 84 zolotnik purity mark, the Moscow city mark (St. George), and the Cyrillic maker's mark ”ВС.” (likely for Vasily Semenov). imperial russian silver, antique niello case, moscow silver, 84 zolotnik, vasily semenov, cossack motif. Dimensions Height 5 1/2 in, Length 3 in, Width 7/8 in. Weight 173.5 g. The measurements are approximate. Condition Excellent antique condition. The intricate niello decoration is remarkably intact with very minimal wear or rubbing. The silver case has no major dents or dings. The hinge is sound, and the case snaps shut securely and flush. The interior retains a brilliant, rich gold wash (vermeil).