-Marchak Paris 1920 Art Deco Rare Translucent Agate Desk Tray In Gilt Sterling Silver

Desk tray designed by Marchak Paris.

An unusual and very rare desk tray, created in Paris France by the luxury house of Marchak during the art deco period, back in the early 1920. This beautiful tray has been crafted in the shape of a rectangular rug, made up with a sliced translucent brown-orange agate. The agate is mount in a custom made frame, made up in solid gilt sterling silver. The visual effect is wonderful and the reality of the details too. The fringes of the carpet appear to be with a distracted movement.

Weight: 124.20 grams (79.61 Dwt).

Measurements: 133 mm by 83 mm by 6 mm (5.25 x 3.25 x 0.25 inches).

Hallmarks: Stamped with French marks; the Minerva head for the guaranty and assay of the silver, the maker's maitre cartouche Ste. M associated to Marchak Paris and signed in a 18kt gold plaque, "MARCHAK PARIS".

The House of Marchak

Marchak was founded by Joseph Abramovich Marchak, a young talented jeweler in 1878, in Kiev, then in Russia. Considered one of the great competitors of Faberge at the beginning of last century and sometimes called “The Cartier of Kiev”, the company employed 150 workers at the start of the Russian Revolution of 1917. After the WWI they moved to France and as soon as he arrived in Paris, Alexander Marchak opened a jewelry shop on the Rue de la Paix, at number 4 right next to Place Vendome and the Hotel Ritz Paris, where a large number of wealthy foreigners had flocked, ever since its opening in 1898.

Collateral: It is accompanied by a presentation jewelry pouch.

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

INVENTORY REF: D061723MMMK/3.682