The Russian Goldsmith’s Workshop
-What is Russian goldsmithery? : Russian goldsmiths are distinguished by their exceptional mastery of precious metals, such as gold, silver and enamel, often adorned with precious stones such as diamonds, rubies and emeralds. It reflects both western influences and local craft traditions. From the 18th century, under the reign of Peter the Great, Russian goldsmiths opened up to European influences, especially French ones, with foreign artists invited to the imperial court.
However, it was in the 19th century that this art form reached its peak, thanks to masters such as Carl Fabergé. Fabergé is known worldwide for its imperial eggs, luxury items made for the Romanov family, combining meticulous goldsmithing, gems, and cloisonné enamel.
Russian goldsmiths also stand out for their traditional designs, often inspired by nature, Russian folklore and orthodox religious themes. Crosses, icons and other liturgical objects made of silver or gold occupy a central place in Russian religious art. Enamel techniques, such as cloisonné and guilloché, are emblematic of Russian goldsmithery, illustrating a unique craftsmanship that spans several centuries.
- What is the value of Russian silver work on the art market? What is the value of a piece by a Russian master goldsmith? Its value, as often for art objects, is based on several criteria: the object itself, its subject, its manufacturing technique, the complexity of its realization, the master goldsmith, its state of conservation. In addition, a final element that is not found every time but can stimulate buyers: provenance.
Who can give an estimate? A auctioneer assisted by a union-owned Russian art expert remains the best formula. For several years, the Cazo study has been collaborating with Ekaterina NikolaevaTendil, an expert in Russian art and member of the SFEP (French Union of Professional Experts in Art Objects)
- How to sell, and especially how to sell your Russian goldsmithery: address a CP who will organize an auction creating real competition between buyers, but who must also have a full-fledged Russian specialty with the assistance of a expert, preferably Russian, better understanding of Cyrillic but also Russian culture and history.
The fact that a study already has this “Russian Art” specialty means that it has built up, over the years and as sales are organized, a solid customer database both nationally and internationally, customers who subscribe to our newsletter, who rate and look forward to our sales dates to bid.
If you would like to meet us for a first contact, an estimate request or photo, you can contact us by phone at + 33 1 45 55 18 66 or by email: contact@cazoparis.com
Looking forward to meeting you
Wilfrid CAZO
Auctioneer/Auctioneer