Object Description
Early Russian silver ewer and basin set by Lang
Russian, 1838-9
Jug: Height 29cm, width 21cm, depth 15cm
Basin: Height 8cm, width 39cm, depth 29.5cm
Emerging from the early 19th Century Nicholas I era, this exceptional pair of a basin and ewer, is a testament to the skills of St. Petersburg silversmith, Henrik August Lang.
The set portrays a detailed and precise execution, characteristic of the Russian silversmithing pinnacle during Nicholas I’s reign.
Fashioned in 1839, the ewer takes a bulbous form that weaves an elegant display of curves. It features a charming handle, which arcs gracefully, and a finely modelled spout. The handle is adorned with carved work embellishments, mimicking the design of a tree trunk, with its extremities blooming into carved leaf patterns that run along the body and spout. The body, with its curvilinear, vein-like design, shows Lang’s expertise.
The basin, produced in 1838, mirrors the ewer’s motifs and gracefully accommodates it with its ample size. The rim, decked with leaf carvings, forms a spectacular stage for the ewer.
Adding to the unique allure of these pieces is their association with Nicholls & Plincke, an esteemed silver retailer established by two Englishmen in St Petersburg in 1815. The firm gained prestige as the preferred supplier of silver to the Russian aristocracy and the Imperial court.
Renowned hallmarks grace both pieces, asserting their origins, silver purity, the identity of the creator, and the retailer. These early manifestations of Russian silver making capture the quintessence of the Nicholas I period, encompassing the splendour and majesty of the era, and the reverence accorded to exquisite artisanship.
While collectors and connoisseurs will find the set irresistible for its historical value, meticulous construction, and artistic prowess, it can also serve as stunning decorative piece, infusing an aura of luxury and refinement into diverse settings, from a chic drawing room to a formal dinner table.
Total weight of both pieces is approximately 3,325 grammes.