Russian niello silver belt

[Smokanabeach]

Hi everybody!

I would like to know your opinion about the authenticity of this belt especially the marks(All parts are hallmarked): my opinion is they're doubious (no Maker's mark, mark partially erase,...). And you, what do you think about it?





In the case they would be authentical, could you explain why there's no Maker's mark ?

Thanks for your help!

Best Regards.

Don Smoka

[Qrt.S]

Hmmmm...difficult to say much. If all part are hallmarked, do you have a better mark, where the assayer's mark left to 84 is better visible (the mark with 185?). I would like to see the initials. Anyway, the town mark has similarities with Novocherkassk, but...? Usually the lack of maker's mark indicates import, but again but...?

[Smokanabeach]

Hi Qrt! Thanks for answering. Unfortunately assayer's hallmarks are All partially erase on All parts: that is something I don't understand and for what I don't have explanations. And that is why I judged it doubious.

[Qrt.S]

Well I have to share your opinion. There is something dubious here and especially when all assaying marks are partly erased and there is no maker's mark. My advice is that you should keep away from it.

[AG2012]

Hi,
Novocherkassk marks on ``oklad`` to compare with (poorly struck, too).
Is every link of the belt soldered like this? Regardless of being a provincial maker, the craftsmanship is terrible. I think the belt has been repaired, triangular plate added later, as well as the link at the other side(arrows).There is a possibility maker`s mark was left underneath.
This is not the craftsmanship expected of Russian silversmiths (poor repair).
Regards

[Smokanabeach]

Thanks both for your analyses!

Well done AG, as i focus on hallmarks, i did not spent enough time observing the item itself what is an importan/major aspect to progress in my quest!

Nevertheless you can see how my judgement of real or fake is ''improving''... Thanks to you and 925-1000.com!

Best regards