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In 1896, Tsar Nicholas II (1868-1918)issued an edict and a new system of marking was introduced, known as theKokoshnik mark (a cartouche containing a woman’s head looking left flanked bythe silver fineness, usually 84, and the assayer’s initials). After 1908 themark changed, the head facing right and the assayer’s initials replaced by aGreek letter representing the city in which the assay office was located. Thissystem continued until the Revolution.
Russian Imperial silver is veryappreciated for its quality and peculiar style, often sober in design butfinely decorated. Enamel is the most distinctive feature of Russian silver:multicolour cloisonné, champlevé, plique-a-jour and the peculiar niello can befound on a variety of items such as cigarette cases, tea services, tankards,beakers and kovshes (traditional Russian drinking vessels).
Another peculiar and desirablecharacteristic of 19th century Russian silver is the Pan-Slavic revival,featuring geometric and stylized motifs inspired by historical items.