Imperial Russian Guilloché Enamel Egg Pendant, St Petersburg, circa 1896–1908

An Imperial Russian Guilloché Enamel Egg Pendant, St Petersburg, circa 1896–1908 Of ovoid form, the pendant exquisitely decorated in translucent pastel blue guilloché enamel over a finely engine-turned ground, suspended from a gold loop stamped with the Russian Imperial gold standard mark “56” zolotnik (equivalent to 14ct), and bearing a maker’s mark, possibly for Oskar Woldemar Ovchinnikov (ОУ). The enamel displays a beautiful soft lustre and depth, typical of the finest St Petersburg workshop production of the period. This elegant pendant belongs to the Fabergé tradition of miniature Easter eggs, highly prized among the Russian aristocracy in the late Imperial era. Comparable examples were produced by leading workmasters for the House of Fabergé and were often exchanged as luxurious Easter gifts within the nobility. Weight: 2.2 grams Dimensions: Approx. 15mm high (excluding loop) x 9mm wide Marks: “56” for 14 zolotnik gold, and a partially visible maker’s mark “ОУ” Provenance: Private English collection Condition: Very good. The enamel is bright and attractive with a soft, even tone. Minor wear visible near the top and some light surface wear to the body, consistent with age and handling. Attribution Note: The mark “ОУ” is consistent with the workmaster Oskar Woldemar Ovchinnikov, a prominent St Petersburg goldsmith known to have supplied enamelled pieces to the House of Fabergé.