An Impressive and Large Gem-Set Silver-Gilt, Enamel and Wood Casket, Khlebnikov, Moscow, 1908-1917

of shaped rectangular form, on four bun feet, the wood body applied with repoussé and finely chased silver mounts in neo-Russian style, set with thirteen guilloché enamelled cartouches depicting stylised animal figures, the lower mount with stylised depiction of the sun and scrolls at intervals, the cover mounts chased with two double-headed eagles within peacock feathers and scrolls, with two compartments, both with key holes, the upper compartment applied with silver vari-coloured champlevé enamelled cartouches, set with varied cabochon gems throughout, including amber, rhodonite, lapis lazuli, garnets and jasper, with two circular handles shaped as a snake biting its own tail, the interior fabric-lined, with keys, marked throughout, 84 standard

length 14 3/4 in.

37.5 cm