Russian Silver Salt Cellar or Small Bowl with Cyrillic Maker Marks
Hollowware (Salt Cellar or Small Bowl) · Russian Provincial or Moscow/St. Petersburg Silversmith, identifiable via Cyrillic maker initials (partially legible in the hallmarks)
Pattern: Traditional Russian domestic silver hollowware, unassigned to a specific branded collection
Type
Hollowware (Salt Cellar or Small Bowl)
Maker
Russian Provincial or Moscow/St. Petersburg Silversmith, identifiable via Cyrillic maker initials (partially legible in the hallmarks)
Material
Russian Silver, typically standard .84 zolotnik (.875 fineness) or .916 fineness, as indicated by the 84 numerical purity mark
Dimensions
Small scale hollowware vessel, likely approximately 5 to 8 cm in diameter and weighing between 30 to 70 grams
Description
An authentic Imperial Russian silver small hollowware piece, likely a salt cellar or miniature bowl, bearing characteristic Cyrillic hallmarks and the numeric 84 zolotnik purity standard stamp. The interior base displays deeply struck punch marks typical of Russian silver regulatory standards, reflecting the rich heritage of Tsarist-era silversmithing.
Key Features
Clear Imperial Russian 84 zolotnik silver standard mark, accompanying Cyrillic maker's initials, and assay punches deeply struck into the base
Material & Composition
Russian Silver, typically standard .84 zolotnik (.875 fineness) or .916 fineness, as indicated by the 84 numerical purity mark
Finish & Decoration
Hand-hammered or plain polished interior with traditional Cyrillic assay and maker punch marks stamped directly into the base
Hallmarks & Stamps
Includes a numeric purity stamp (84 for zolotnik standard), Cyrillic maker's initials punch, and assay town or master marks enclosed in rectangular and shaped cartouches
Construction Details
Hand-raised or spun body with stamped punch marks applied directly into the base metal using traditional Imperial Russian marking protocols
Functional Features
Open-form small vessel intended for salt service, spices, or decorative cabinet display
Handle & Grip Details
Handleless open bowl or salt cellar form relying on direct hand contact
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-finished traditional Russian silver production featuring genuine assay and master marks struck with heavy punches into the base
Authentication Indicators
Authentic punch stamp shapes, correct numeric formatting for the 84 zolotnik standard, and hand-struck depth characteristic of pre-Soviet Russian silver manufacture
Origin & Manufacturing
Imperial Russia, featuring traditional Cyrillic hallmarks denoting standard silver fineness and workshop origin
Era & Period
Late Imperial Russian Period (19th to early 20th century, pre-1917)
Age Estimate
Late 19th to early 20th century (circa 1880-1914)
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of Imperial Russian domestic silver production and strict state-controlled assay office marking systems prior to the 1917 revolution
Condition Notes
Aged surface with natural tarnish, minor scratches, and wear consistent with historic silver vessels; marks remain legible
Value Estimate
Moderate to high antique market value depending on the specific maker's mark identification and overall condition, typically ranging from $150 to $400 USD
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a non-abrasive silver polish, avoid scrubbing directly over the stamped hallmarks, and store in a tarnish-resistant cloth
Similar Pieces
Imperial Russian 84 zolotnik salt chairs, niello pill boxes, and small Kiddush cups from Moscow and St. Petersburg workshops
Interesting Facts
The zolotnik was a traditional Russian unit of mass, and the '84' mark indicates silver of 84/96 fineness, equivalent to approximately .875 purity