An arts and crafts Faberge gem set frame

I am delighted to list the Collections first foray in to the world of Faberge.  Recently acquired and now sold, courtesy of Christies, is this wonderful and unusual Faberge gem set silver gilt mounted wood photograph frame.  The silver fully assayed and also with workmaster’s mark for Victor Aarne, St Petersburg 1899-1904.

The large frame is of arched rectangular form, centring a rectangular aperture, decorated throughout with silver-gilt foliate motifs and set with cabochon amethysts, carnelian and bowenite, all within a silver wirework band, the back with wooden strut.

For all its unusual qualities as a Faberge frame, it is quite familiar in the context of the British arts and crafts movement which may possibly have provided its design inspiration.

Maker: Faberge

Designer: Faberge

Date: c. 1900

Marks: Faberge, assayed, workmaster’s mark

Material: Oak, silver gilt, semi precious stones

Condition: Very good

Size: 33.6 cm high

Weight : NM