27 Nov 2013 Russian Art Auctions
27 November 2013
406. A FABERGÉ MOSS AGATE AND GOLD OWL PENDANT
MAKER'S MARK OF HENRIK WIGSTRÖM, ST PETERSBURG, 1903, 72 STANDARD
Height 3.5 cm (excluding suspension loop).
15,000–20,000 GBP
Realistically carved as an owl with gold feet and suspension loop, the eyes set with diamonds.
Endearing and realistically carved miniature models of animals belong to Fabergé’s most spectacular and sought after objects. They reflect his fascination with nature, his studies and extensive travels across the world. Inspired by netsuke, Faberge’s animals differ from their Japanese counterparts, in the way they ingeniously combine different hardstones in order to suggest the natural qualities of the subject.
Fascination with the Orient also gave rise to new social traditions – the gifting of small carved objects for good luck and which symbolised prosperity, longevity and abundance was eagerly adopted by the Russian Imperial court.
Hardstone carving flourished in Russia and the vast stone resources enabled Carl Fabergé to fulfil his most audacious designs. Among the most distinguished hardstone carvers of the early 20th century were Derbyshev and Kremlev, whose execution of bird designs alongside those of the head workmaster, Henrik Wigström (1903) contributed to Fabergé’s enduring success.
The charm of these carvings also lies in the choice of materials – the brown and black speckled agate simulates the natural colouring of the owl’s plumage (lot 406) whereas the grey jasper contributes to the exquisite realism of the hippopotamus (lot 407). The small talons of the owl are executed in gold highlighting the precious nature of the object and the natural glow of the hippopotamus’s eyes are achieved by setting them with rubies or diamonds.
Notes on symbols:
* Indicates 5% Import Duty Charge applies.
Ω Indicates 20% Import Duty Charge applies.
§ Indicates Artist's Resale Right applies.
† Indicates Standard VAT scheme applies, and the rate of 20% VAT will be charged on both hammer price and premium.