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Russian Silver Niello Spoon with Black Inlay Patterns — Primary view
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Russian Silver Niello Spoon with Black Inlay Patterns

Russian — 19th century

Material
Sterling silver
Use
Tablespoon
Century
19th century CE
Size
Large
Provenance
Owner's collection
Dimensions2 measurements
Overall length
20.5 cm
Overall width
4.2 cm

Catalogue Note

A Russian silver spoon whose handle is decorated with black niello inlay patterns of scrolling floral ornament, the dark inlay set in sharp contrast against the polished silver ground. The bowl is plain and shows gentle wear, while the handle keeps its bold, graphic decoration. An attractive example of niello work on silver.

Spoon Lore

Niello is a black metallic inlay fused into engraved silver, a technique long favored by Russian silversmiths for decorating spoon handles with dark, high-contrast floral patterns.

G

From the collection of

George Whitfield