Lot 0037
Russian Silver-Gilt Cigar Box “Boyar” by Bragin Manufactory
Estimate: 4000-5000€
A Russian silver-gilt cigar box, “Boyar” the hinged cover applied with a relief plaque depicting a bearded boyar reading a scroll in an interior setting. Maker’s mark of A. Bragine manufactory, St. Petersburg, 1908–1917.
Dimensions: 15.8 × 11 × 6.6 cm.
Weight: 621 g
The subject reflects the fascination with Old Russian themes and historical revivalism in decorative arts of the late Imperial period, while the craftsmanship demonstrates the refined silverwork of St. Petersburg makers in the early 20th century.
Andrei Stepanovich Bragin (1852–1908) was one of the most respected and skilled silversmiths in St. Petersburg at the turn of the century. He completed his apprenticeship in 1852 and opened his own workshop in 1888. By 1897, his firm employed 25 craftsmen with an annual turnover of 7,600 rubles. For comparison, Fabergé employed 204 craftsmen with a turnover of 164,000 rubles. Despite being a relatively small enterprise, Bragin’s workshop earned high regard for the excellent quality and refined design of its silver objects. Influenced by the fashions and tastes of the contemporary elite, most of Bragin’s works were executed in the Art Nouveau style, richly decorated with Pan-Slavic, floral, and natural motifs.
The firm regularly participated in national and international exhibitions, including Brussels (1897) and St. Petersburg (1903). Today, Bragin’s works are preserved in several national museums of Russia as well as numerous private collections.
Starting price: 3500€
Estimate: 4000-5000€
Hammer Price: 4000€
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