Imperial Russian 84 Zolotnik Silver Snuff Box or Powder Jar by Alexander Krivov
Decorative Object / Snuff Box / Powder Jar · Alexander Krivov (A.K), a notable Moscow silversmith known for high-quality hollowware and vanity objects. The workshop operated during the mid-to-late 19th century.
Pattern: Russian Traditionalist / Plain Polished. This style was popularized for individual functional objects rather than large dinnerware sets.
Type
Decorative Object / Snuff Box / Powder Jar
Maker
Alexander Krivov (A.K), a notable Moscow silversmith known for high-quality hollowware and vanity objects. The workshop operated during the mid-to-late 19th century.
Material
84 Zolotniki Silver (approx. 87.5% purity). This was the standard silver purity throughout the Imperial Russian Empire.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter of 6-8 cm (approx. 2.5-3 inches). Weighted feel characteristic of Imperial Russian silver, likely ranging between 80-120 grams.
Description
An elegant example of Imperial Russian functional silver. This circular piece exhibits the robust construction and high-grade silver typical of Moscow silversmiths. Its beauty lies in its simplicity and the historical weight carried by the Imperial hallmarks.
Key Features
The '84' Zolotnik stamp and the 'AK' Cyrillic maker's mark are the primary diagnostic features. The heavy gauge of the metal is a hallmark of Russian craftsmanship.
Material & Composition
84 Zolotniki Silver (approx. 87.5% purity). This was the standard silver purity throughout the Imperial Russian Empire.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with substantial surface scratching consistent with age. Minimalist design typical of mid-19th century functional items, focusing on the quality of the metal rather than ornate engraving.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Contains the '84' zolotnik purity mark, the 'AK' (АК) maker's mark for Alexander Krivov, and the St. George and Dragon city mark for Moscow. Includes a date mark, though partially obscured, indicating mid-1800s.
Construction Details
Raised and spun from a single thick sheet of silver. The marks are centrally located on the base, suggesting a hand-hammered finish that was later lathe-polished.
Functional Features
Features a smooth, slightly convex base. If this is a lid, it would likely have a friction-fit rim; if a base, it would hold powders or tobacco.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable as this is a circular lid or base component; however, the smooth rounded edges provide an ergonomic grip for the hand.
Craftsmanship Details
Evident hand-hammering transitions into a smooth finish. The hallmarks are expertly struck, showing high-quality control in the workshop.
Authentication Indicators
The hallmarks are struck with the correct depth and spacing for the period. The wear patterns on the marks themselves show genuine age rather than a modern cast copy.
Origin & Manufacturing
Moscow, Russia. Manufactured in the Krivov workshop, adhering to the strict Imperial assay standards of the time.
Era & Period
Imperial Russian Period (Mid-19th Century, approx. 1850-1880). Characterized by the Zolotnik marking system and the use of Cyrillic maker's marks.
Age Estimate
Circa 1850-1875. The specific typography of the 'AK' mark and the clarity of the '84' stamp point toward this 25-year window.
Cultural Significance
Silver objects in 19th-century Russia were more than just tools; they were a form of currency and a primary indicator of social standing among the burgeoning merchant class.
Condition Notes
Good antique condition. While structurally sound, the surface shows significant 'spider webbing' or micro-scratches from decades of handling and cleaning. No major dents observed.
Value Estimate
$250 - $600 USD depending on the completeness of the object (e.g., if it is just a lid or the full jar). Full, undamaged Russian snuff boxes of this caliber can exceed $1,000.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with high-quality non-abrasive silver cream (e.g., Wright's). Avoid machine buffing which can erase the soft edges of the historical hallmarks. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth.
Similar Pieces
Similar 84 silver items by Ivan Khlebnikov or Sazikov; however, Krivov pieces are often more understated and functional compared to the ornate 'Pan-Slavic' styles of the larger firms.
Interesting Facts
The 84 Zolotnik standard is unique because it measures silver in units of 96, where 96 is pure silver. This system was abolished following the Russian Revolution in 1917.