Grand Duchess Maria Pavlovna: A wood photograph frame with silver-gilt mounts, Drozzhin, St Petersburg, 1908-1917

rectangular, the aperture border moulded with palmettes above ribbon-tied laurel swags, containing a photograph of Grand Duchess Maria Pavlovna (1854-1920) inscribed Marie/ St Petersburg 1910; struck with workmaster's initials I.K (Cyrillic), possibly Ilya Katorskii, 84 standard, in original fitted cloth case

Excellent condition. The wood frame with minor discolouration, one spot of pencil marks at the back, and one chip to the wood strut. The outer case with some staining and inscribed in ink: "Mr Glyn/ Photograph/ W?? stored". Interestingly, Her Imperial Highness has been considerably slimmed down by means of retouching the photograph.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

M.I. Drozzhin, located at Karavannaya str., 24, St. Petersburg, was one of the suppliers to the court of Grand Duke Vladimir Alexandrovich and Grand Duchess Maria Pavlovna.  Some of the invoices for their purchases have been preserved in the State Archives; one records a wooden frame with silver mounts purchased by Her Imperial Highness on 5 March 1910 for 48 rubles.