Faberge: His Masters and Artisans

Description

Carl Faberge (1846-1920), jeweller to the Russian Imperial Court, enjoys iconic stature in the history of the goldsmiths' art. His life's work is still celebrated today, a century after the forced closure of his company in St Petersburg, capital of the then crumbling Russian Empire. Wherever Faberge's works are shown, whether at exhibitions or in salerooms, they delight and inspire. However no man is an island. Without a host of creative talents behind the scenes - designers, master goldsmiths and silversmiths - Carl Faberge's business could not have flourished. Faberge: His Masters and Artisans lifts these craftsmen into the limelight; craftsmen who not only deserve our closer attention, but the captivating stories of their lives and careers add appreciably to what is known of the working processes at Faberge. Featured here are names - familiar from the maker's marks on countless Faberge treasures - of men such as Erik Kollin, August Holmstroem, Henrik Wigstroem, Viktor Aarne, Gabriel Nykanen, and many others. The book also explores jewellery manufacturing methods, touches on the company's wellknown and influential customers, as well as, of course, showcasing Faberge's very recognisable style and creativity. It contains much new information, including reminiscences, letters, and personal photographs alongside detailed images of Faberge works

Ulla Tillander-Godenhielm Ph.D., is the great-granddaughter of St. Petersburg goldsmith Alexander Tillander, a supplier to the Russian imperial court. She has been researching the oeuvre of the Russian jewellers for many years. Her doctoral dissertation was on the award system of imperial Russia. She lectures, serves as a consultant for art exhibitions, and writes for exhibition catalogues and art publications in Finland and abroad. She has published several books on the art of the jewellers of St. Petersburg in Swedish, Finnish, and English, including Jewels of Imperial St Petersburg published by Unicorn in 2013.