A gem-set silver-gilt kovsh, Abram Beilin-Levkov, St Petersburg, 1908-1917

the exterior profusely applied with hardstones, varicoloured cabochon-cut gems and small enamel plaques painted with flowers, the prow applied with a part-enamelled badge of the Twelfth Akhtyrka Hussar Regiment, 84 standard

Generally good condition. Some of the stones slightly loose in their mounts. One of the enamel plaques with losses. The silver with shallow dents resulting from the applications of stones. A very interesting object.
"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."

Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna (1882-1960) was appointed honorary Commander-in-Chief of this regiment on her wedding day, 9 August 1901: 'I was only 19 when I was married. On the day I left my rooms in Gatchina on my older brother’s arm to walk over to the church, we were met by a deputation from a regiment in an unusual brown uniform unlike any other. It was the only regiment in the whole army which was entitled to wear this special uniform. The deputation stood to attention as we approached. We stopped in front of them, and my brother presented me: "Here is your new honorary Commander-in-Chief".'  (See P. Kulikovsky et al., 25 Chapters of My Life: The Memoirs of Grand Duchess Olga Alexandrovna, 2009, p. 117.)  During the Great War she wrote to her niece Tatiana Nikolaevna, 'My precious Akhtyrskies are really dears. I dress their wounds myself every day. I do not leave that to anyone!' (op.cit, p. 122).  For additional information, please visit sothebys.com.