Silver sculptured Queen in Carraige

[Hada]

I purchased this piece and have little information about it. This is where I need assistance. I assume it is Russian because of the kind of crown on the queen’s head. The piece consists of a queen in an enameled parasoled- carriage holding onto the reins of an elk. It is completely crafted in silver with the following dimensions:

Length from rear of carriage to head of the elk: 35cm long

Height from base of wheel to top of parasoul: 25cm high

Width of carriage from the rear: 07 cm wide

Height of queen: 10 cm


The pictures are obscured by the background mother-of pearl mirror frame, please disregard. If you can see it, in picture entitled silver.3 is an engraved marking, the only found on this piece. M 1859 is written. Perhaps this would give you a clue as to the maker place. The parasol, elk and the wheel hubs are adorned with semi-precious stones, pearl, coral, turquoise and perhaps what is known as Mecca stone or carmine. There is no doubt as to the authenticity of the piece. I have not yet cleaned it. I do know that the base and the reins are not its original.

I truly would appreciate any assistance you can provide me on gaining insight into the maker or origin of this piece.
Please click on the following links to view.

http://sv1.letmehost.com/sv1/19/silver4.jpg
http://sv1.letmehost.com/sv1/19/silver3.jpg
http://sv1.letmehost.com/img.php?file=s ... ilver3.jpg
http://sv1.letmehost.com/img.php?file=sv1/19/silver.jpg

Regards, Hada

[claretjugcollector]

i do not think that is is russian - for my opinion it comes from tibet !

[georgiansilver]

Sorry claretjugcollector but since when have tibetans had reindeer?

[dragonflywink]

My initial impression was also Tibetan or Nepalese, with Chinese, Burmese or Indian having quick consideration. Believe that the deer is probably based on an Asian Red Deer, very similar to an American Elk. Don't really see any indication of Russian origin.

Cheryl ;o)

[Hada]

Thank you all for your comments. The Eastern, Indian, Asian, Nepalese angle is more than likely not possible as the crown, dress and facial features of the queen (not clearly shown) are not Eastern. The features of the queen are more "European" than "Asian". Furthermore, the queen seems to be wearing something similar to a nun's headdress, especially the manner in which her head is covered under the crown. Please do surmise though, perhaps the origin of the piece may be discovered.

Regards,

Hada

[dragonflywink]

Just an opinion, but the style and decoration of the carriage looks very Asian, the person with the reins (unseen facial features aside), appears to wearing a Chinese-type robe with a decorative shawl, the rounded form of the headdress (along with the covered ears) is similar to styles worn in the Himalayan region. Personally, don't really see a European influence.

Cheryl ;o)

[Hada]

I've noticed that the photpos have vanished so I'll post again

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j174/ ... silver.jpg

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j174/ ... ilver2.jpg

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j174/ ... ilver1.jpg

http://i80.photobucket.com/albums/j174/ ... ilver3.jpg



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