Fabergé

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Outstanding among the world's artistic treasures are the works of Russian jeweler Carl Faberge (1846-1920). This lavishly illustrated book offers the most comprehensive study of Faberge and his innovative creations, highlighting his legacy as Imperial Jeweler to the Russian Court. While Faberge is famously known for the Imperial Easter eggs created for tsars Alexander III and Nicholas II, these are only a small part of his workshop's output. His close ties with the Russian Imperial Family led to exquisite jewelry, official objects for Nicholas II's coronation in 1896, and numerous presentation gifts for visiting dignitaries. Faberge's acclaim extended beyond Russia, particularly after showcasing a miniature replica of the Russian crown jewels at the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris. The book uniquely features personal items and objets de fantaisie created for royal clients, including tiny hardstone animals for Queen Alexandra and elegant gifts for royal anniversaries. It reproduces over 350 objects and drawings, many previously unknown in the West, with contributions from twelve leading scholars providing fresh insights into Faberge's history and operations. The opening of Russian archives post-Soviet Union has revealed long-lost documents and memoirs from Franz Birbaum, offering a glimpse into the firm’s daily workings. This important volume serves as the catalogue for a landmark exhibition at major museums, examining th