posted 08-23-2006 01:06 AM            

Posted: Mon Jun 05, 2006 1:37 am Post subject: Silver sculptured Queen in Carraige

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I purchased this piece and have little information about it. This is where I need assistance. I assume it is Russian because of the kind of crown on the queen�s head. The piece consists of a queen in an enameled parasoled- carriage holding onto the reins of an elk. It is completely crafted in silver with the following dimensions:

Length from rear of carriage to head of the elk: 35cm long

Height from base of wheel to top of parasoul: 25cm high

Width of carriage from the rear: 07 cm wide

Height of queen: 10 cm

The pictures are obscured by the background mother-of pearl mirror frame, please disregard. If you can see it, in picture entitled silver.3 is an engraved marking, the only found on this piece. M 1859 is written. Perhaps this would give you a clue as to the maker place. The parasol, elk and the wheel hubs are adorned with semi-precious stones, pearl, coral, turquoise and perhaps what is known as Mecca stone or carmine. There is no doubt as to the authenticity of the piece. I have not yet cleaned it. I do know that the base and the reins are not its original.

I truly would appreciate any assistance you can provide me on gaining insight into the maker or origin of this piece.

posted 08-26-2007 10:52 AM            

Could you please try to post a closeup of the markings you mention - it is very hard to see in the photo you have now.

I do not get the feeling that this is Russian for three reasons - there are no hallmarks and Russian silver has hallmarks; the overall styling reminds me more of makers in the Middle East or perhaps up towards Afghanistan, Pakistan, or the Central Asian Republics; and the workmanship seems somewhat crude and basic for the work of Russian jewelers.

Did you buy it locally in the UAE or did it come from someone in another country?

My first impression is that it could be a souvenir or gift related to someone who went on their Hadj. My thinking is that it includes Mecca stones and that it portrays a person on an important journey.