Russian Imperial Period Sterling Silver Dinner Fork
Flatware · Russian Imperial Silversmith, likely Moscow or St. Petersburg workshop
Pattern: Traditional Imperial Russian Plain Fiddle or Trefid variant
Type
Flatware
Maker
Russian Imperial Silversmith, likely Moscow or St. Petersburg workshop
Material
Russian Silver Standard 84 Zolotonik (.875 silver purity)
Dimensions
Standard dinner fork size, approximately 19-20 cm in length, weight estimated at 50-70 grams
Description
An authentic piece of Imperial Russian flatware featuring the classic 84 zolotnik silver standard mark. The fork exhibits robust construction with well-defined tines and clear, deep punch marks indicating strict government assay oversight during the Tsarist era.
Key Features
Authentic 84 zolotnik purity mark, clear square maker and assay punch stamps, heavy solid silver construction
Material & Composition
Russian Silver Standard 84 Zolotonik (.875 silver purity)
Finish & Decoration
Plain polished surface with classical Neoclassical or late 19th-century utility styling
Hallmarks & Stamps
Visible 84 zolotnik purity mark enclosed in a square stamp along with a cyrillic maker mark and town mark
Construction Details
Die-struck and hand-finished with individual tines cut and shaped manually
Functional Features
Standard four-tine table fork designed for dining use
Handle & Grip Details
Solid silver handle with flat tapering stem and slight ridge reinforcement
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality period manufacturing utilizing traditional Imperial Russian stamping and hand-finishing techniques
Authentication Indicators
Clear 84 zolotnik mark, crisp square punch impressions characteristic of Imperial Russian assay offices, appropriate metal weight and patina
Origin & Manufacturing
Russia, Imperial period manufacturing traditions subject to strict state assay control
Era & Period
Late Imperial Russian Period, late 19th to early 20th century
Age Estimate
Circa 1880-1910 based on the 84 zolotnik mark style and square stamp borders
Cultural Significance
Reflects the opulence and strict bureaucratic quality control of the late Russian Empire before the 1917 revolution
Condition Notes
Very good antique condition with expected surface micro-scratches and minor wear consistent with age and gentle use; structure is solid with no repairs
Value Estimate
Moderate to high antique market value driven by collector demand for authentic Imperial Russian silver
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash only with mild soap and warm water, dry immediately with a soft cloth, use non-abrasive silver polish sparingly
Similar Pieces
Russian silver spoons and knives from the Faberge or Nichols & Plinke eras bearing similar zolotnik marks
Interesting Facts
The zolotnik was an old Russian unit of mass, and the 84 standard is roughly equivalent to .875 silver purity, slightly lower than standard British sterling but standard for Russian empire silver