Princess Elena Belosselsky-Belozersky: A Victorian Silver Table Mirror, John S. Hunt, London, 1849

the mirror framed with a cast border of blooming garlands, the top of the mirror with two draped putti supporting a crowned shield on which appears the coat-of-arms of the Princes Beloselskoy, set on scroll with a wooden back

Princess Elena Belosselsky-Belozersky, née Bibikov, later Princess Koschoubey.

some minor losses to mirror back; some minor repairs
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Elena Bibikov was the wife of Prince Esper A. Belosselsky-Belozersky (1802-46).  After his early death, she controlled the extensive family fortunes on behalf of their young son.  In 1848-49, she commissioned Court Architect André Stackenschneider to rebuild the family palace on the Nevsky Prospect, opposite the Anitchkov Palace.  From this stage, she gave balls and receptions which dazzled the capital and court, becoming one of the social leaders of the city.  An 1860 portrait of the princess by Winterhalter is at the Walters Art Gallery, Baltimore.

A tea and coffee service, tray, and pair of salvers with the same arms, by Hunt, 1849-51, were sold Parke-Bernet Galleries, 23 November 1971, lots 51, 53, 54, "Property of Alexis Manice, Tuxedo Park, N. Y."

Hunt and Roskell also supplied a large silver service in 1850-51 for Grand Duchess Ekaterina Mikhailevna, granddaughter of Paul I; pieces from this are preserved in the Hermitage.