Rare Antique Large Russian Silver Gilt Covered Chalice Moscow 18th Century
- Silver
- 298389189856
An impressive and unusually large Russian silver-gilt covered chalice dating to the mid-18th century.
Executed in a richly sculptural Baroque style, the chalice features a bold multi-lobed melon-form body with matching lobed cover and foot. The surface is extensively decorated with finely hand-engraved foliate ornament, creating a striking interplay between the sculpted silver forms and engraved decoration.
The stem modeled as a naturalistic tree trunk and incorporating a finely cast figure of a woodsman carrying an axe. This distinctive motif appears on a small group of related Russian chalices of the period and represents one of the most memorable decorative features of the design.
The domed cover is surmounted by a beautifully executed openwork Imperial double-headed eagle finial, while the interior retains its original fire-gilded finish. Additional decorative silver scrollwork surrounds the lower section of the cup, further enhancing the elaborate Baroque character of the piece.
The chalice is hallmarked on the cover, rim, and base. Marks include the Moscow city hallmark, assay mark, and maker's mark A.K. the date mark is appears to read 174-, with the final digit not clearly visible.
Height: 15 3/8 in. (39 cm)
Diameter: 4 3/8 in. (11.1 cm)
Weight: 596 grams
Condition: Very good antique condition with expected wear consistent with age and use. Original gilded interior preserved.