Russian 1898 Moscow Niello Rectangular Snuff Box In 875 Sterling Silver

Russian snuff box designed by Ivan Sergeyevich Lebedkin.

Beautiful snuff box, created in Moscow Russia, at the workshop of Ivan Sergeyevich Lebedkin, active between the 1898 to 1914. This piece has been carefully crafted in the Russian style, in solid .875/.999 silver with decorations made up in niello finish. Fitted with an invisible hinge and close perfectly well.

Weight: 82.95 Grams, (53.17 Dwt). 

Measurements: 72 mm by 38 mm by 22 mm (2.83 x 1.50 x 0.87 Inches).

Hallmarks: Stamped with Russian marks; two times with the maker's mark НБ, the workshop mark ИЛ associated to Ivan Sergeyevich Lebedkin, the mark for the city of Moscow and the first kokoshnik (1896-1908 ) mark of 84 zolotnik for the .875/.999 assay of the silver.

Note: Niello is a black mixture, usually of copper and silver, used as an inlay on engraved or  silver. It is added as a powder or paste, then fired until it melts or at least softens, and flows or is pushed into the engraved lines in the metal. It hardens and blackens when cool, and the niello on the flat surface is polished off to show the filled lines in black, contrasting with the polished silver. It may also be used with other metalworking techniques to cover larger areas. The metal where niello is to be placed is often roughened to provide a key. In many cases, especially in objects that have been buried underground, where the niello is now lost, the roughened surface indicates that it was once there.

Collateral: It is accompanied by a presentation jewelry pouch.

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

INVENTORY REF: D040523TANL/2.392