Russian Silver Persian Cat Sculpture, Soviet Period, 88 Zolotnik, Marked "S.W."

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Highly Detailed Russian Silver, Soviet Period Persian Cat Sculpture with Garnet Eyes, 88 Zolotnik, Marked "S.W.," Circa 1950s

A finely … Read more Highly Detailed Russian Silver, Soviet Period Persian Cat Sculpture with Garnet Eyes, 88 Zolotnik, Marked "S.W.," Circa 1950s

A finely modeled and intricately chased hollow silver sculpture of a long-haired domestic cat, likely modeled after the Persian or Himalayan breed. The animal is depicted in a seated posture, with a stylized curling tail and attentive expression, rendered with lifelike depth and emotional presence. The rich fur texture is deeply chased and subtly polished across high points, creating dramatic surface contrast and a tactile, almost lifelike softness.

The sculpture’s meticulous hand-chasing, naturalistic pose, and jewel-like eyes reflect the enduring influence of Karl Fabergé’s animalier tradition, particularly the small-scale silver and hardstone animal studies produced in his Moscow workshops at the turn of the 20th century. Like Fabergé’s celebrated menagerie, this piece captures both the anatomical accuracy and the spirited personality of its subject, elevating it from a decorative object to a work of art imbued with character and luxury.

The figure's eyes are set with smooth red cabochon stones—likely garnets or finely colored glass paste—enhancing its realistic gaze. The underside bears a Russian silver hallmark, including the “88” zolotnik standard (equivalent to .916 silver purity), along with the Latin-letter maker’s mark “S.W.,” attributed to a postwar Soviet-era workshop producing fine export silver.

Although the piece appears solid at first glance, it is finely executed as a sealed hollow-form casting using the lost-wax method, a traditional sculptural technique that allowed for rich surface modeling while minimizing weight. A faint rattle can be heard when the figure is gently moved, caused by a small remnant from the casting core or finishing process—a common occurrence in Russian and Continental silver animal figures of this period, and part of the authentic evidence of hand craftsmanship.

This piece was likely made in the 1950s in a Russian workshop catering to both domestic collectors and foreign markets, when Soviet silver production maintained high standards in the decorative arts while adapting to modern export demand. The use of Latin initials, higher-purity silver, and jewel-like detailing supports this interpretation.

Dimensions: 4" high x 3" wide x 2.5" deep
Weight: 214 grams (7.55 troy ounces)
Marks: 88 zolotnik (.916 silver); maker’s mark “S.W.”
Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The surface shows a light patina consistent with age and careful handling. Stones are intact and securely set. A small residual fragment inside the casting produces a faint internal rattle, original to the production technique.

Provenance: Private collection, United States

A superb example of Russian animalier silverwork, balancing charm, technical virtuosity, and historical appeal. Ideal for collectors of figural silver, postwar Soviet decorative arts, or 20th-century animal sculpture. This continuity of style underscores the lasting aesthetic legacy of Fabergé in Russian decorative arts well into the mid-20th century. See less