**Originally Listed At $750**

Eastern Europe, western Russia, near Moscow, Fedoskino, likely Lukutin Factory, ca. second half of the 19th century CE. A gorgeous pair of papier-mache lacquer eggs, both finely painted with religious and stately scenes in vibrant hues and perforated with vertical drill holes. Enveloped in a lustrous shade of emerald, the larger egg displays a scene of Christ's Resurrection on one side and a lush floral motif on the other with gilt curlicues decorating the field. A slender rope has been strung through the drill hole, tied in a bow at each side and allowing the egg to be suspended. Alternatively, the more petite egg is coated in scarlet-colored pigment with the image of Saint Seraphim of Sarov on one side, while an Orthodox church adorns the other. Size (larger without rope): 2.8" Diameter x 4.2" H (7.1 cm x 10.7 cm); size (larger with rope): 2.8" Diameter x 8" H (7.1 cm x 20.3 cm)

This style of lacquer miniature painting on papier-mache is known as Fedoskino painting, named after an old village in Moscow where the tradition was centered starting in the late 18th century. As seen in these examples, Fedoskino painting is distinctive for the use of mother-of-pearl, gold, or silver leaf under segments of the background to create a shimmering glow or silvery sparkle as seen in these examples. Miniatures of this type from the second half of the 19th century are known as "lukutins"; taking their name from the Lukutin family who owned the Fedoskino factory at the time. Thus, even Fedoskino eggs that are not marked with the Lukutin family coat of arms can be referred to as "Lukutin." For example Christie's London referred to an unmarked egg that also bared images of Christ's Resurrection and the Kremlin as being by the Lukutin Factory in lot 303 in Live Auction 1161 "Important Russian Art" on November 24th, 2013.

According to the Dorich House Museum in London, "Production of lacquered papier-mache began with the pressing and forming of cardboard sheets which were then boiled in linseed oil and then baked in an oven. Thereafter the material could be worked like wood and artists could begin fine painting on the blank surfaces. Although Lukutin was focused primarily on producing goods for the upper classes and Vishnyakov looked more to the general population, a fierce rivalry had grown up between the two factories following Lukutin's takeover of the Korobov factory. Competition spurred innovation and the range of items produced was extended to include brooches, tea caddies, spectacle cases, the aforementioned Easter eggs, and other items."

Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection

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#172570

A few miniscule abrasions to each. Fraying and patina to rope of larger. Otherwise, both are intact and excellent with nicely preserved pigments.