A large silver-gilt and cloisonné enamel kovsh, Ovchinnikov, Moscow, 1899-1908

in the form of a stylised duck, the circular bowl, long-billed head and flared tail feathers enamelled with polychrome pastel foliage and scales within geometric borders with star paillons, the ends with large rosette medallions, on stippled grounds, the lower part of the bowl with polished surface, the head with knop, obliterated maker's mark beneath the Imperial Warrant, 84 standard, scratched number 871

Very good condition, the gilding of the interior and lower exterior nearly worn, there are tiny enamel losses near the join of the front and back parts of the neck.
"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."

An identical kovsh is illustrated, G. Hill, Fabergé and the Russian Master Goldsmiths, New York, 1989, no. 181, p. 230; and another, G. von Habsburg, Fabergé: Imperial Craftsman and His World, London, 2000, no. 69, p. 74.