Russian Imperial 84 Zolotnik Silver Tray or Dish with Armorial Crest
Hollowware (Tray, Dish, or Bowl) · Likely a Russian Master Silversmith working in St. Petersburg or Moscow (e.g., Sazikov or Grachev Brothers, though specific maker's mark is partially obscured by oxidation)
Pattern: Imperial Armorial Pattern with scalloped and pierced edge
Type
Hollowware (Tray, Dish, or Bowl)
Maker
Likely a Russian Master Silversmith working in St. Petersburg or Moscow (e.g., Sazikov or Grachev Brothers, though specific maker's mark is partially obscured by oxidation)
Material
84 Zolotnik Silver (.875 purity fine silver) with common copper alloy base
Dimensions
Estimated 15-20 cm diameter; estimated weight 200-350 grams depending on depth
Description
A characterful example of Russian silver hollowware featuring a prominent Imperial-style crest. The piece showcases traditional Russian piercing techniques on the flange, creating a lace-like effect that contrasts with the heavy, hand-engraved armorial bearings at the top of the scalloped section. The dark patina suggests a long period of storage without polishing, characteristic of estate-found Russian silver.
Key Features
Distinctive 84 Zolotnik silver standard engraving; heavy oxidation; Russian-style crown heraldry; hand-pierced 'cloveroid' openwork
Material & Composition
84 Zolotnik Silver (.875 purity fine silver) with common copper alloy base
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized/tarnished surface, hand-pierced openwork, chased armorial crest featuring a crown and shield (heraldic engraving), and scalloped rim
Hallmarks & Stamps
Engraved Imperial Armorial crest with crown; would typically include an 84 mark, city mark (George the Slayer or Crossed Anchors), and assay master's initials on the underside
Construction Details
Hand-raised from a flat sheet, pierced with chisels/saws, and hand-engraved with heraldry
Functional Features
Pierced decorative border for weight reduction and aesthetics; flat central reservoir for serving
Handle & Grip Details
No dedicated handles; grip is achieved via the scalloped, pierced flange/border
Craftsmanship Details
Evident hand-craftsmanship in the unevenness of the piercing and the depth of the engraved crest; reflects the transition between traditional hand-wrought methods and early industrial finishing.
Authentication Indicators
Characteristic Russian heraldic crown design; gauge of silver consistent with 84 zolotnik standards; hand-filing marks seen in pierced sections
Origin & Manufacturing
Russian Empire, likely produced in a major urban workshop in Moscow or St. Petersburg
Era & Period
Tsarsist Russia (Late 19th Century / Early 20th Century), likely Alexander III or Nicholas II era
Age Estimate
Circa 1880-1910 based on hallmark style and heraldic design
Cultural Significance
Represents the high social status of the Imperial Russian middle and upper classes prior to the Revolution; armorial silver was a primary method of displaying lineage and state loyalty.
Condition Notes
Good antique condition but heavily tarnished/oxidized. Surface exhibits moderate 'fire scale' or deep sulfurization that requires professional cleaning. No visible deep dents or structural tears in the piercing. Grade: Good (as found).
Value Estimate
$350 - $750 USD depending on the specific maker's mark and weight; pieces with identifiable noble crests command a premium.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle cleaning with a specialty silver foam (like Wright's) is needed to remove heavy oxidation. Avoid abrasive dips which can damage the hand-engraving. Store in acid-free tissue.
Similar Pieces
Polish 800 silver trays (lighter weight); German Hanau silver (often more ornate repoussé); Tiffany & Co. pierced bonbon bowls (finer gauge, sterling .925).
Interesting Facts
The '84' standard was the most common for Russian silver in the 19th century, referring to 84 parts silver out of 96 parts total; many such pieces were hidden or exported during the 1917 Revolution.