A Fabergé Translucent Pink Guilloché Enamel Gilt Silver Cigarette Case. Fabergé, Workmaster August Hollming, St....

Description

A Fabergé Translucent Pink Guilloché Enamel Gilt Silver Cigarette Case
Fabergé, Workmaster August Hollming, St. Petersburg, 1908-1917, with scratched inventory number 22565, and additional hallmarks for London including the Latin CF for Carl Fabergé, import mark, and the date mark for 1911
3-1/2 x 1-3/4 x 1-1/8 inches (8.9 x 4.4 x 2.9 cm)
138 grams (4.43 troy ounces)

PROVENANCE:
Purchased by Mrs. Horlick from Fabergé's London branch on 5 August 1913 for 27;
Sold Christie's, New York, Russian Works of Art, April 21 1998, lot 64;
Private Collection, UK, acquired from the above;
Sold Christie's, London, Russian Art, November 28, 2011, lot 205;
Private Collection, New York, acquired from the above.


This beautiful case, of a relatively rare oval form is a subtle and rich translucent peach-pink. Highlighted by the gilt silver frame work of the case, and the diamond-set thumbpiece, it of restrained and almost modern design. The London stock books note that "Mrs. Horlick" acquired it in August of 1913 for 27 guineas. Recent research has revealed that the inventory number 22565 places it among a group of at least four other cases.

Flora McDonald Martin, daughter of Col. & Mrs. Cunliffe Martin, married James Nockells Horlick (1886-1972) in 1909. Her husband was the son of Sir James Horlick, 1st Baronet, co-founder of the malted drink Horlicks, a product that had achieved remarkable international success by the early 20th century. The Horlicks family epitomized the rise of a new Edwardian elite - industrial and entrepreneurial families whose fortunes stemmed from innovation rather than inheritance. Their prosperity afforded them access to the same spheres of taste and influence long dominated by the aristocracy, and they became notable patrons of luxury craftsmanship, including the London branch of Fabergé.

Opened in 1903, Fabergé's Bond Street salon drew precisely such patrons: royalty, aristocrats and industrialists eager to express their refinement through exquisite design. For families like the Horlicks, Fabergé's artistry offered an emblem of status, cosmopolitan taste, and social legitimacy.

Heritage Auctions is grateful to Valentin Skurlov and Anna and Vincent Palmade their assistance in the research of this lot.


Estimate: $30,000 - $50,000.

*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.