This is a very beautiful example of Antique Imperial Russian Solid Silver Nielli Napkin Ring with bold Niello decoration.

Nielli is the name that given to the objects decorated with Niello: black metallic alloy of sulphur with silver, copper, or lead that is used to fill designs that have been engraved on the surface of a metal. The art of Niello reached its peak in 15th Century Italy, and Russian goldsmiths working in the late 18th Century revived the craft. The Russian Niello works during that period are rich with details and in high quality, therefore highly sought after by collectors.

The main attraction of this beautiful Nielli Napkin Ring is a delicate scenery of Ivan's Tower inside the Moscow Kremlin. The back side bears a round cartouche without personalisation. And the lest is finely embellished with intricate scrolling design on textured background.

We can see the trace of Imperial Russian hallmarks inside the ring. One is probably marked 1871 and 84. However they are polished-off and could not identified as it should. See the detail photo I added.

 
Measurements & Condition

1 7/8 inch (4.9 cm) diameter x 1 1/8 inch (3 cm) wide, weight 1.13 oz (32.1 grams)

Very Good Estate Condition with minor sign of light use. Inside the ring has many scratches, probably filed with rough sandpaper or alike. Please refer the detail photos I added.

(Item Reference No.00588)