Imperial Russian Cloisonné Enamel 84 Zolotnik Silver Gilt Spoon
Flatware (Serving or Tea Spoon) · Attributed to various Master Silversmiths of the late Tsarist era, such as Gustav Klingert, Ivan Khlebnikov, or the 6th Artel. These makers were renowned for their intricate enamel work and high standard of craftsmanship in Moscow and St. Petersburg.
Pattern: Russian Revival / Pan-Slavic Style. This is not a named collection in the modern commercial sense, but a stylistic movement popular from the 1880s until the 1917 Revolution.
Type
Flatware (Serving or Tea Spoon)
Maker
Attributed to various Master Silversmiths of the late Tsarist era, such as Gustav Klingert, Ivan Khlebnikov, or the 6th Artel. These makers were renowned for their intricate enamel work and high standard of craftsmanship in Moscow and St. Petersburg.
Material
84 Zolotnik Silver (equivalent to .875 purity). The piece is 'Silver Gilt,' meaning the silver is plated with a thin layer of gold (vermeil) to protect against tarnish and interactions with acidic foods. The decoration consists of vitreous cloisonné enamel.
Dimensions
Estimated length of 14-16 cm (approx. 5.5-6.3 inches). Weight typically ranges between 25 to 45 grams depending on the thickness of the silver and enamel density.
Description
A magnificent example of Imperial Russian artistry, this silver-gilt spoon features elaborate cloisonné enameling that covers the handle and the reverse of the bowl. The vibrant use of traditional 'Russian colors' (blue, red, white) against the gilded silver creates a regal appearance synonymous with the luxury of the Tsarist court.
Key Features
Multi-colored vitreous enamel, 84 silver standard marking, Pan-Slavic floral motifs, and the characteristic drop-point attachment where the stem meets the bowl.
Material & Composition
84 Zolotnik Silver (equivalent to .875 purity). The piece is 'Silver Gilt,' meaning the silver is plated with a thin layer of gold (vermeil) to protect against tarnish and interactions with acidic foods. The decoration consists of vitreous cloisonné enamel.
Finish & Decoration
Features polychrome cloisonné enamel in shades of cobalt blue, turquoise, dark red, and white. The decoration includes traditional Slavic floral motifs and scrolls. The bowl interior shows a matte gilt finish with heavy tarnish/patina.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Typically found on the stem or the edge of the bowl. Would include the '84' standard mark, a city mark (St. George for Moscow or crossed anchors for St. Petersburg), and a maker's mark in Cyrillic (e.g., 'ГК' for Klingert).
Construction Details
Hand-forged silver body with hand-applied wire filigree (cloisons). After the wires are soldered to the base, the cells are filled with enamel paste and fired in a kiln multiple times before being polished flush.
Functional Features
Rounded egg-shaped bowl with a decorative drop on the reverse connecting to the stem. The stem is twisted or squared with enameled bands to provide grip and visual continuity.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid silver handle, fully integrated with the spoon. The grip is heavily accented with enamel to provide a tactile, non-slip surface, ending in a decorative finial or 'knop' at the top.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality artisan work. The symmetry of the cloisons and the lack of 'pitting' (small bubbles) in the enamel are hallmarks of a master craftsman from the Moscow workshops.
Authentication Indicators
The '84' purity mark and Cyrillic maker's marks are the primary indicators. Authentic pieces show hand-applied wires of varying thickness and slight color variations in the kiln-fired enamel.
Origin & Manufacturing
Russia, likely Moscow, which was the primary hub for cloisonné and champlevé enamel production during this period.
Era & Period
Late Imperial Russian / Alexander III or Nicholas II period (1881–1917). It reflects the Russian Revival style which sought to celebrate traditional Russian folk art and medieval aesthetics.
Age Estimate
Circa 1890–1910 based on the color palette and the refinement of the enamel cells.
Cultural Significance
A symbol of the 'Belle Époque' of Russian history, representing the bridge between ancient Byzantine craft traditions and the modern European luxury market of the early 20th century.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Good. The enamel appears largely intact, which is rare. There is heavy tarnish (sulfide deposits) on the silver-gilt surfaces, particularly in the bowl. No visible cracks in the enamel or bends in the stem.
Value Estimate
$300 - $650 USD depending on the specific maker's mark and the level of enamel loss. Exceptional pieces by Fabergé or the First Artel can reach significantly higher prices.
Care & Maintenance
Do not use silver dips or ultrasonic cleaners as they can dissolve the enamel or loosen the bond. Clean only with warm, mild soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid bending as enamel is glass and will shatter.
Similar Pieces
Often compared to Norwegian enamel (Marius Hammer) which uses plique-à-jour techniques, or French Champlevé. Russian pieces are distinguished by the higher relief of the wire work and the specific 84 silver standard.
Interesting Facts
Enamel spoons of this type were popular gifts for christenings and weddings in Russian society. During the Soviet era, many such items were melted down for their silver content, making surviving intact pieces highly collectible.