Russian Silver

Welcome to a selection of Russian silver objects. The style and craftsmanship mirror the historic changes in taste and style over time. In 1705, Tsar Peter the Great moved the Russian capital from Moscow to St Petersburg with the aim of making it the window to the western world. The new capital became a magnet, attracting European shipbuilders, architects, industrialists and craftsmen. Silversmiths from Finland, the Baltic states and the old Swedish Narva came to St Petersburg and brought with them new ideas and designs; rococo, empire, gothic and art nouveau. While the silversmiths in Moscow held on longer to traditional styles, the craftsmen of St Petersburg were influenced by the international setting which dominated commerce and trade until the early 20th century. The auction contains objects such as silver pitchers, silver mounted icons, bowls and saltcellar with exquisite details and stamps.