Fabergé Egg for Russian Royalty Sells for .2 Million, Setting a New Auction Record
A rare and exquisite crystal and diamond Fabergé egg, known as the Winter Egg, shattered auction records on Tuesday, fetching an astonishing 22.9 million pounds (approximately .2 million) at Christie’s auction house in London. This remarkable sale not only highlights the enduring allure of Fabergé’s artistry but also underscores the escalating demand for rare collectibles.
The Winter Egg is one of only seven opulent Fabergé eggs in private collection, signifying its status as a coveted piece of history. The 4-inch (10-centimeter) tall egg is meticulously crafted from finely carved rock crystal, adorned with a delicate snowflake motif made of platinum and 4,500 tiny diamonds. When opened, it reveals a charming removable basket of bejeweled quartz flowers, symbolizing the arrival of spring.
Christie’s auction house remarked on the significance of the Winter Egg, drawing parallels to iconic artworks like the Mona Lisa due to its unparalleled craftsmanship and historical value. The sale price included the buyer’s premium and surpassed the previous record of .5 million obtained during a 2007 auction for another Fabergé egg commissioned by the Rothschild banking family.
The illustrious legacy of Fabergé began in the late 19th century when craftsman Peter Carl Fabergé created more than 50 intricately designed eggs for Russia’s imperial family from 1885 to 1917. Each egg was unique, often containing hidden surprises, and served as extravagant gifts during Easter celebrations. The tradition was initiated by Czar Alexander III, who presented an egg to his wife annually, with Czar Nicholas II continuing this custom for both his wife and mother.
Commissioned in 1913 by Czar Nicholas II for his mother, Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna, the Winter Egg represents a significant chapter in the history of the Romanov dynasty. Following the 1917 revolution that ultimately led to the family’s execution in 1918, the egg became lost to history, only to resurface decades later. It was acquired by a London dealer for a mere 450 pounds when the Communist regime liquidated cultural assets in the 1920s. It was rediscovered in 1994, selling for more than 7 million Swiss francs (.6 million) at auction, and again in 2002 for .6 million. Each transaction consistently set new records for Fabergé items.
Today, 43 imperial Fabergé eggs remain, with the majority housed in museums. The Winter Egg stands as a testament to extraordinary craftsmanship and the rich cultural heritage of the Romanov family, while continuing to captivate collectors and art enthusiasts alike. In an increasingly competitive market for rare collectibles, the Winter Egg’s record sale underscores the appeal of historical artifacts rooted in artistic excellence.
Media News Source
