Live Auction 7905Russian Art
A Gem-Set Silver Bell-Push in the form of an Alligator
Lot 283

A Gem-Set Silver Bell-Push in the form of an Alligator

MARK OF THE FIRST ARTEL, ST. PETERSBURG, 1908-1917

Closed29 November 2010

Price Realised

GBP 13,750

Considering selling a similar item?

Discover its value with a complimentary estimate from our specialists.

More Information

How to sell

A Gem-Set Silver Bell-Push in the form of an Alligator
Mark of the First Artel, St. Petersburg, 1908-1917
Realistically modeled, the eyes set with cabochon sapphires, the jaw hinged to operate the mechanism, marked on rear right foot
8¾ in. (22.2 cm.) long

Sotheby's, New York, 20 June 1984, lot 332.
Acquired at the above sale by the present owner.

Specialist note

The First Artel was formed around 1909 when Julius Rappoport, Fabergé's leading creator of silver animal figures, decided to retire. To reward his workmen for their service, Rappoport left them his workshop and equipment (including the moulds for his animals). They organized as a co-operative under the name of the First Silversmith's Artel.