Faberge Egg Adorned with 4,500 Diamonds Sets £22.9M World Record in London
A remarkable Fabergé egg has made headlines following its record-breaking sale for £22.9 million at an auction in London. This stunning piece, known as the Winter Egg, stands at 10 centimeters tall and is adorned with 4,500 diamonds.
Details of the Fabergé Egg
Crafted from rock crystal, the Winter Egg features an intricate snowflake motif made from platinum. Its unique design offers a beautiful reminder of the transition from winter to spring, aligning with its Easter theme. This egg was commissioned by Tsar Nicholas II in 1913 as a gift for his mother, Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna.
A Significant Piece of History
This particular egg is among the 50 crafted by renowned jeweler Peter Carl Fabergé for the Russian imperial family between 1885 and 1917. Each egg was uniquely designed and often contained a hidden surprise. In this case, the Winter Egg opens to reveal a small basket filled with delicate quartz flowers.
Record-Breaking Sale
London auction house Christie’s stated that this sale marked the third time a Fabergé egg has achieved a world record price. The previous record stood at £8.9 million, set in 2007 for another Fabergé item made for the Rothschild family.
- Year of Commission: 1913
- Original Owner: Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna
- Sale Price: £22.9 million
- Dimensions: 10 cm (4 inches)
- Total Diamonds: 4,500
Historical Context
Fabergé eggs hold immense historical significance, with 43 remaining in existence today, most housed in various museums. This specific egg had a varied history; it was acquired by a London dealer for approximately £450 during the 1920s, when the Soviet government auctioned off Russia’s cultural treasures.
Margo Oganesian from Christie’s described the Winter Egg as “the Mona Lisa of decorative arts,” highlighting its artistry and craftsmanship. The piece not only symbolizes Easter but also represents the enduring heritage of the Romanov dynasty, which ruled Russia for over 300 years before its demise in 1917.
Conclusion
The Winter Egg’s extraordinary sale celebrates the legacy of Fabergé and the opulent history of the Russian royal family. It reinforces the enduring appeal and value of these exquisite treasures in the world of art and collectibles.
