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Exceptional Imperial Russian Jeweled Gilt-Metal Photograph Frame
Traditionally Attributed to Fabergé • Portrait Attributed to Fr. de Mezer • Circa 1890–1900
An extraordinary Imperial Russian photograph frame of exceptional quality, dating to the late 19th or very early 20th century and retaining an original period photographic portrait of a highly decorated officer of the Imperial Russian Army.
The reverse preserves an important old attribution identifying the frame as:
“FABERGÉ / CIRCA 1900 / RUSSIA”
and the photograph as:
“FR. DE MEZER / Photographer / Circa 1890s.”
Fr. de Mezer was a noted photographer active in Kiev during the Imperial Russian period, making both the portrait and its attribution entirely consistent with the historical setting and date of the frame.
The officer is shown in formal Imperial Russian military dress wearing shoulder boards, a prominent neck order and an extensive group of decorations and medals. He was clearly an officer of considerable rank and distinction, although his identity has not yet been established.
The frame itself is exceptionally elaborate. The broad gilt-metal surround has a finely textured ground decorated with separately applied scrolling foliage, flowers and delicate tendrils. Throughout the ornament are numerous green and clear inset stones, creating a remarkably jewel-like appearance.
Multiple finely worked borders surround the photograph, including beaded, rope-twist and classical leaf motifs.
The crowning element is a magnificent pierced gilt-metal surmount centered by a classical lyre, surrounded by roses, foliate scrolls and ornamental flourishes. The detail and quality of the metalwork are especially impressive when viewed closely.
The overall effect is sumptuous and unmistakably characteristic of the extraordinary luxury associated with Russian decorative arts of the Imperial period.
Fabergé Attribution
The frame retains an older collection attribution to Fabergé, preserved directly on the original backing.
It is therefore being offered as:
ATTRIBUTED TO FABERGÉ
rather than as a conclusively authenticated or marked Fabergé work.
The surviving historical attribution, Russian origin, period Fr. de Mezer portrait, jewel-like decoration and exceptional workmanship make this a particularly compelling piece for further scholarly research.
Old Collection Labels
The reverse retains several earlier labels and inventory markings, including:
FABERGÉ / CIRCA 1900 / RUSSIA
FR. DE MEZER / Photographer / Circa 1890s
Dimensions: 9.75”H x 6.5”
Condition
Very good antique condition considering its age.
The gilt surfaces retain a beautiful warm historic patina with expected minor age-related wear. The applied decoration remains exceptionally attractive, detailed with all jewels present.
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