Russian Presentation Silver Kovsh Russia, Moscow, 1883

A Russian presentation silver kovsh executed in the traditional ladya form, characteristic of ceremonial drinking vessels of the late nineteenth century. The body is richly engraved with Neo-Russian ornamental motifs inspired by ancient Russian decorative traditions. Along the rim runs a Russian folk proverb: "Beer is good when a bucket costs three coins, they drink it and praise it," lending the object a strong folkloric and symbolic character. The interior is finely polished, emphasizing both the functional and representative nature of the piece. Such kovshes were intended for festive occasions and commemorative gifts. Marks: Maker's mark "VV" in Cyrillic (unidentified master); Moscow Assay District mark with initials "V.S" and date "1883", corresponding to assayer Viktor Savinkov; Silver standard mark "84". Dimensions: Height 4 cm; length 15.5 cm; width 8.5 cm.Weight: 158 g.Condition: Good overall condition, with clear engraving and minor signs of age.Provenance: Private collection.