ANDREEV ALEKSANDROV 1908 Desk Petrol Lighter In .875 Sterling Silver

Table petrol lighter designed by Andreev Aleksandrov.

This is a beautiful table petrol lighter, created in Moscow during the Russian imperial period, back in the 1908-1926. The table-desk lighter was crafted in an oval shape by the silversmith Andreev Aleksandrov in solid .875/.999 sterling silver with repousse and plain patterns. The repousse design has the motifs of flowers and organic patterns. The lighter is fitted with a removable lid which show the monogram CB-III in Cyrillic letters in attribution to the previous owner, all accented in yellow gold.

Period: Circa 1908-1926.

Weight: 124.95 Grams, (80.10 Dwt). 

Measurements: 63 mm by 52 mm by 95 mm (2.48 x 2.05 x 3.75 Inches).

Hallmarks: Stamped with Russian Empire post 1908 marks: the delta for the city of Moscow; the maker's mark AA inside an octagonal cartouche, associated to Andreev Aleksandrov, the kokoshnik mark 84 to the right for the assay and fineness of the .875 silver and signed, "AA 84".

Kokoshnik Mark

This is a traditional Russian head-dress worn by women and girls. It is tied at the back of the head with long thick ribbons in a large bow. During the revival of Russian national culture in the late 19th century, these diadem-shaped tiaras became part of the official court dress for royalty and ladies-in-waiting.
A woman head wearing the Kokoshnik inside contours of various shapes was used from 1899 to mark Russian silver. These marks are commonly known as "Kokoshnik". In 1896 was introduced a mark with a female head silhouette facing left and silvers fineness expressed in zolotnicki inside an oval oblong or a circular cartouche. On the right side were inscribed the assayer's initials in Cyrillic characters. In 1908 was introduced a new mark with a more detailed female head facing right and silver fineness expressed in zolotnicki inside an oval oblong cartouche. The left side was inscribed with the town/region symbol.

Collateral: This lighter is accompanied by a presentation pouch.

Condition: The overall condition of this lighter is excellent. Beside the little normal wear, there is no damage to the silver. All parts are secured in the settings. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.

INVENTORY REF: D070124SENK/3.604