A Russian Gilt Silver Filigree-Mounted Coconut Cup . The carved shell possibly period of Peter I, the silver and...

Description

A Russian Gilt Silver Filigree-Mounted Coconut Cup
The carved shell possibly period of Peter I, the silver and filigree by an unknown maker, Vologda, circa 1861
8 x 2-1/2 inches (20.3 x 6.3 cm)

PROVENANCE:
A La Vieille Russie, New York.


A coconut cup is typically made from the hard shell of a coconut, frequently carved and mounted in gilt silver or gold, and fashioned into a drinking vessel or display piece. They were particularly popular in Europe during the Renaissance and Baroque periods (16th-18th centuries) and were often presented as diplomatic gifts. Examples of such cups about in Russia, particularly in the 18th century (cf. Solodkoff, p. 24, illus. 28.). Coconuts for use in such objects were imported at great expense from South America to St. Petersburg.

The offered lot is unusual in that the coconut carving itself appears to be of the 18th century, and commemorating the marriage of Peter I to his wife Catherine Skavronska (later Empress Catherine I). Catherine came from origins which may only be described as somewhat obscure, but she was a a woman of strong character, and succeeded her husband by his decree. The mounting by an unknown maker is later, and was created in Moscow in 1867 in a much earlier style, replete with filigree and other decoration.

BIBLIOGRAPHY:
von Solodkoff, Alexander. Russian Gold and Silverwork, 17th-19th Century. New York.: Rizzoli International Publications, 1981.


Estimate: $5,000 - $7,000.

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