From Russia With Love...

When one thinks of Russian high society, it conjures scenes of unapologetic wealth and glamour. From the historically lavish Tsars, to the jet-setting billionaire oligarchs the Russians know how to do ‘flashing the cash’ with style.

Therefore, it perhaps comes as no surprise that some of the most coveted and collectable pieces of silver originate from Russian soil (specifically, most likely Moscow or St Petersburg). Russian silver is both elaborate and elegant with an emphasis on attention to detail. Pieces can be characterized by the popular use of enamel inlayed into the silver to create intricate, brightly coloured designs.
It was a tsar, Peter the Great (obviously a modest chap then…!) that introduced standardized silver hallmarking to Russian in 1700. This restricted silversmiths to four standard purities. Today, Russian hallmarks bear five touch marks; the Makers mark, the Assayers mark, the Silver Standard mark, the City mark and the Kokoschnik mark.

A few fine pieces of Russian Silver from the AC Silver inventory...

W4341: A Russian Polychrome Cloisonne Enamel and Silver Gilt Cream Jug

W3113: A Russian Silver Bullet Shaped Teapot


W4416: A pair of antique Russian Silver and Niello Shot Cups / Glasses