Large cloisonné enamel and silver kovsh

Large cloisonné enamel and silver kovsh
Russian, 20th Century
Height 20cm, width 25cm, depth 19cm
 
A symbol of Russian culture, a kovsh is a traditional drinking vessel, often used as a ceremonial gift from the tsar. The superb kovsh in Mayfair Gallery’s collection was crafted by skilled craftsmen in the 20th century.
 
The cloisonné enamelling technique is implemented to decorate the piece. Very intricate patterns are crafted using thin silver wire. Coloured enamel paste where shades of pink, blue, orange and cream predominate accentuate the details and add an eye-catching feature to the piece.
 
The front is adorned with a skilfully painted genre scene where a group of ladies are conversing. A baby can be observed in a swing hanging from a tree branch. Painted using a vibrant colour palette the scene stands out against the more pastel shades of the surrounding decoration.
 
The underside of the kovsh features spurious marks.
 
This magnificent kovsh would be a superb addition to one’s collection of tableware.