Imperial Russian Box

A monumental piece of history, this exquisite silver punch set was made for Czar Alexander III as a gift to British Captain Joseph Wiggins. Heavily decorated with rich engravings and proverbs in old Slavic lettering, this service is a grand symbol of celebration and a testament to the beauty of Russian Imperial silver. The punch set, a standalone treasure in its own right, was gifted by Czar Alexander III to Captain Wiggins in recognition of his pioneering expedition along the Enisei River. Driven by a desire to establish a sea route with Siberia, Captain Wiggins’ journey is notable for being the first successful endeavor by a British seaman in 300 years to extend commercial interests with the northern coasts of Russia. Even more notable is the presentation of this elaborate gift by the Russian government to a foreign national, particularly when the British government all but ignored Wiggins' efforts. In fact, the British government refused his modest request for surveying and observational instruments. Even so, the Czar was impressed, and chose to honor Wiggins with this exceptional punch service — as pictured and discussed in Henry Johnson’s book Captain Joseph Wiggins, written in 1907. The service was commissioned by the Czar from the House of Sazikov, the oldest silversmith and jewelry firm in Russia. Sazikov was established in 1793 by the merchant Pavel Sazikov, and became supplier to the Imperial Court in 1837. The firm, which maintained factories in Moscow and St. Petersburg, became renowned for its high quality silverware, silver sculptures, cloisonné enamels and statuettes with national motifs. The firm exhibited several cups and centerpieces at the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London, and from 1846, held the Imperial Warrant. The unique charm of this punch service lies not only in its craftsmanship and historical relevance, but also in the inclusion of old drinking...

Rare and fine antique Imperial Russian .875 fine silver hand engraved cup and saucer. Maker's marks for Aleksandr Fuld, Moscow, and Master Assayer's mark...

A fine antique Imperial Russian silver-gilt & cloisonne kovsh, Nikolay Strulev, Moscow, circa 1908. The kovsh with all over floral cloisonne enamel decoration to the bowl and the top...

A very good antique Imperial Russian silver-gilt cloisonne enamel kovsh, Moscow, circa 1908. The kovsh of traditional shape with all over muti-color cloisonne enamel decoration, the ...

A RUSSIAN HAMMERED BRASS SERVING TRAY Late 19th century. Rectangular hammered brass rimmed serving tray. Handles attached with co...

An exceptional, fine and impressive pair of antique Russian silver egg cups; an addition to our silver cruet and condiment collection. These except...