This magnificent Russian Vladimir Mother of God Icon
(Владимирская икона) is by prominent Imperial Russia Silversmith
Egor Cheryatov - Георгий (Егор) Кузьмич Черятов,
who stands among the most distinguished silversmiths / enamellers
of Imperial Russia, on par with Faberge & Ovchinnikov
AN ARTISAN
Egor Cheryatov who was first a chief jeweller & silversmith at Lorie –
a renowned Moscow jewellery firm & store,
neighbouring with С. Faberge’s store.
Working at the height of Russia’s 19th-century artisanal excellence,
Egor Cheryatov was part of a flourishing Moscow tradition
serving both the aristocracy and the Orthodox Church.
His silverwork is distinguished by technical precision and disciplined ornamentation, combining European classical influences
with unmistakably Russian motifs.
Adhering to strict hallmarking standards, he ensured material purity
and clear attribution, enhancing his professional standing.
This appealed to Imperial Russia’s elite:
he built his reputation supplying high-quality functional and
ceremonial objects for a discerning clientele
Following the Russian Revolution of 1917, Cheryatov continued to work, adapting his practice to the radically changed political and economic environment. By 1924 he employed 7 people in his workshop.
His ability to remain active during this transitional era reflects
both professional resilience and sustained demand for skilled silversmiths.
Today, Cheryatov’s works are prized as authentic expressions of Imperial Russian silver and its cultural confidence.
A PIECE
This Magnificent Antique XIXc – early XXc Russian Silver Icon
is bearing important hallmarks in 3 different places:
84 standard zolotnik;
Head stamp facing left – for circa 1899 – 1908
which means the article was made before 1908;
maker’s mark: “E.Ч.” in Cyrillic
This superb icon depicts Vladimir Mother of God
84 silver parcel-gilt riza / oklad is incredibly detailed:
(every tiny crease of clothing is clearly visible)
Central image set within a highly ornate halo,
meticulously detailed in polychrome enamel
in rich tones of pink, red, blue and white & finely engraved;
Oklad features an intricate embossed motif to robes,
with sleeves & other pieces of clothing are crisp &
showcased with exceptional attention to details;
with faces very intricate & so lifelike…
It’s inside a solid wooden case (kivot)
that measures 36cm x 31.5cm x 6.5cm.
Dimension of an icon (only): 27cm x 22cm.
AN IMPORTANCE:
Outstanding & truly unique,
as there are only a few icons that illustrate that particular subject,
especially in this size & in such opulence,
crafted by Imperial Russia’s leading silver artisan
Besides, it’s in remarkable condition
Interesting fact:
Silver & enamel kovsh by Egor Cheryatov was sold for AUD 360,000
(US 240,000) at Sotheby’s
Only 2 icons by E. Cheryatov have ever been on a market
(including this particular one),
with Smolenskaya icon sold at Sotheby’s for £17,000 in 2018.
