Antique chatelaine made in Russia in the 19th century

The word “chatelaine” comes from the French term which means the mistress or lady of a castle, or “châteu“, and were used to hold the keys to rooms, pantries and anything of value, and over the years evolved to holding such items as thimbles, needle cases, small note books and even pocket watches, and became not just an essential item to be worn, but resulted in many incredible examples being produces, such as this magnificent antique silver chatelaine made in Russia in the 19th Century.

Made in silver in Russia in the 1840’s, this incredible piece measures 26.2cm in length and is so beautifully detailed and tactile, and a true testament to the quality of craftsmanship in this piece.

To describe every feature and aspect of this chatelaine in detail would take far to long, but starting at the top is a figure of a Ottoman Sultan who is not just finely detailed but has three pearls and coral in a star design surrounding a natural emerald as well as a ruby in the centre and two further emeralds.

With a further three larger emeralds, all of these emeralds total an impressive 4.36 carats and are still yet further highlighted with four cabochon cut garnets that total 5.30 carats, one of which is set into the centre of a pearl.

Then there are the all the additional features to this that makes it even more incredible. From one side that has cherubs, hands and that gorgeous pocket watch key, to the the centre drop section that again has more cherubs and detailed work leading to a hand to hold a pocket watch and the other end one that has the same detail and the most gorgeous seal at the end depicting a cherub sitting atop a swan, this is certainly one piece that will have you admiring it for hours on end.

With a clip on the back to connect it to an outfit, there is also the ability to pass a chain through the top that would make this a truly exceptional, outstanding and magnificent centrepiece for any outfit.

Even well after 150 years have passed since it was made, there is no doubt that this is an exceptional piece and a magnificent one-of-a-kind.

Stock# EC1402

Circa: 1840

$11,200