A charming mid-19th century Russian silver bowl modelled as a pumpkin, the interior richly gilded and the exterior beautifully worked to capture the naturalistic contours and lobed form of the fruit.
Russian silver of the Imperial period is celebrated for its combination of technical excellence and imaginative design. While much surviving Russian silver was produced for formal table services and courtly display, smaller objects inspired by nature occupy a particularly appealing place within the tradition. Drawing upon European naturalism while retaining a distinctly Russian character, silversmiths transformed fruits, vegetables, flowers, and animals into functional works of art.
The present example demonstrates this fascination with the natural world. The sculptural form of the pumpkin is rendered with sensitivity and precision, while the gilded interior provides a striking contrast to the silver exterior. Such objects would have served both practical and decorative purposes, reflecting the 19th-century appreciation for finely crafted tablewares that delighted the eye as much as they served the table.
Marked for 84 zolotnik silver, 1853, with an indistinct maker’s mark, possibly that of Carl Johan Tegelsten.
Length: 9 cm
Height: 5 cm Width: 6cm
Weight: 77 grams
A delightful example of Imperial Russian silver, combining whimsical design, refined craftsmanship, and the enduring appeal of nature-inspired decorative arts.
