The fine work of a Russian master by Mikhail Dmitriev, Moscow, mid-19th century. The grooves on the silver surface were cut manually with a chisel (burin) and subsequently covered with special compounds. This jewelry technique has been known in Russia since the 9th-10th century. Over time, this technology spread to applied art items and weapon finishing. Niello is considered the most effective way to create a rich pattern and highlight the texture on the relief or ornament of silver items. Small applied art items made of silver with niello have long been collectibles for many people. The interest of collectors in these items is quite understandable: these items reflected the social status of previous owners, historical events and artistic styles, fashion trends and technical progress of the past centuries.
Size app.: 8.1 cm (roughly 3.2 in) high, 7.3 cm (roughly 2.9 in) diameter. Good condition, with wear, losses to niello, little dents. Please study high-res pictures for cosmetic condition! In person actual item may appear darker or brighter than in our pictures, strictly depending on sufficient light in your environment. Weight of app. 88 gram it is going to measure some 0.25 kg packed for shipment.