This exceptional and rare antique Russian silver tankard has a subtly tapering cylindrical form onto angular dovetail feet.
The surface of this imperial pint* tankard is embellished with two engraved decorated scenes: firstly, depicting a collection of dignitary figures being waited on with a campsite style setting and secondly children aiding directions to further adult characters within a rural town; it can be determined that such a frieze of figures relates to a historical event or folklore.
These two impressive scenes are segmented with an engraved interlacing knot design to either side of a geometric bordered cartouche, displaying the contemporary engraved initials 'KL' and inscription 18 September 1874.
The body of the tankard is further embellished with parcel gilt ornamentation in addition to applied bands of reed decoration.
The upper and lower portions of the tankard are ornamented with engraved opposing geometric borders.
This antique Russian silver tankard retains the original hallmarked hinged cover encircled with a suspended pierced decorated gallery style rim in addition to further engraved geometric decoration, reflecting that of the body.
The upper plateau of the cover is fitted with an applied linear strip accented with three faceted rivet style designs, terminating with a scrolling thumbpiece surmounting the hinge.
This imperial pint tankard is fitted with a C shaped handle with a scrolling lower terminal.
This impressive tankard is supported by eight dovetail style feet, reflecting the angular nature of the engraved ornamentation.
The interior of the tankard retains the original gilding.
The hallmarks struck to the underside of this antique Russian silver tankard include:
Maker's mark: EL (untraced)
Assay mark: ИЕ, 1872 (Иван Вонифатиевич Евстигнеев/Ivan Vonifatiyevich Yevstigneyev)
Silver quality/purity mark: 84 (84 zolotniks**)
City Mark: St Petersburg, Russia
This exceptional and rare tankard is the finest of its type you could hope to acquire.
* Imperial quart = 0.5 Imperial Quart/568 Millilitres
** 84 zolotniki is equivalent to 875/1000 or .875 standard silver
Maker: Untraced Maker's Mark
