Russia, Imperial. A Silver Cloisonne Snuff Box, c.1915

(Silver). Antique. An oval shaped snuff box constructed of silver and cloisonne enamels. The exterior of the box is covered in a traditional style cloisonne floral design in blue, green, red, orange, cream and purple. The lid is hinged and bears a small tab for opening and closing. The interior of the box is in gilt. The bottom of the box is marked with the Moscow (1908-1917) silver hallmarks, and a “6MA” mark, indicating the 6th Artel. Measuring 71.12mm (l) x 52.85mm (w) x 20.02 mm (h) and weighing 88.9 grams. Slight enamel damage present, remains extremely fine.

Footnote: This Russian Silver Snuff Box was produced by the 6th Artel during the final years of the Russian Imperial period.The 6th Artel worked mostly with enamel cloisonne, but also with guilloché and plique-a-jour techniques. It also worked with traditional styles and colours. The 6th Artel was one of the most famous court suppliers of high quality enamelled silver.