A very rare Imperial Russian blackened silver pendant finely modeled as a teddy bear set with two ruby cabochons as eyes. The surface has traces of gilding. The pendant is hollow inside. Marked on the fitting ring with an 88 silver standard, a kokoshnik mark, and the workmaster's initials in Cyrillic, "AH". This miniature masterpiece was created by the renowned jeweler August Holmström in St. Petersburg, Russian Empire, in the late 19th century/early 20th century.
August Holmström was Chief Jeweler at Fabergé for a remarkable forty-six years. Throughout his illustrious career, most Fabergé productions took place in his workshop.
Holmström was born in Helsinki and originally trained under his bricklayer father. At the age of sixteen, however, he left his homeland for St Petersburg and became an apprentice to the jeweler Herold. Whilst in Herold’s workshop. Holmström met Johann Fredrik Hammarström, another Finnish trainee-jeweler. Though Hammarström initially achieved greater success, establishing his own workshop, Holmström soon surpassed him. In 1857, Holmström purchased Hammarström’s workshop and rose to the esteemed position of Chief Jeweler for Fabergé.
What sets August Holmström apart from other workmasters is his work's sheer quantity and variety. Additionally, he has a reputation for creating extraordinary custom designs.
The loop had hallmarks struck with the work master’s initials, "AH," and illegible hallmarks, presumably the St. Petersburg Assay Office marks, a woman's head in a kokoshnik, and the imperial silver standard 88.
The pendant-bear dimension is approximately 28mm in height and 19 mm in width.
Total weight: 8 g.
This exceptional Faberge Silver Gilt Jewelry item is a highly sought-after and rare collectible that will decorate and complement any collection. The teddy bear pendant is in excellent vintage condition and comes in its original antique wooden Faberge box.