A RUSSIAN ORMOLU AND MOSS AGATE TAZZA

This finely crafted Russian tazza, modelled on an antique athenienne, is replete with Masonic symbols. The zoomorphic supports depict the four evangelists, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, represented by, respectively, the cherub, lion, ox and eagle. Other engraved Masonic cyphers include the sabre, mitre, compass and sword. The square base is inscribed in Cyrillic, ‘To Jacob the Wise from Matheus Mudrov. Born: 30 of April 1722: Died: 7 of April 1797. Vologda’.