Rare 18th-Century Imperial Russian Silver Gilt Charka (Vodka/Spirit Cup) — Moscow, c. 1771–1779 An exceptional, museum-quality solid silver charka (traditional Russian spirit cup) dating back to the second half of the 18th century. This exquisite piece was handcrafted in Moscow between 1771 and 1779 during the reign of Catherine the Great. The cup features a beautifully shaped lobed body decorated with masterfully executed hand-hammered repoussé and chasing techniques, complemented by fine exterior engravings. The interior retains its gorgeous, original gold-gilt (vermeil) lining, which protected the silver from the acidity of alcohol. The bottom features four crisp, fully legible period hallmarks, making this a highly documentable and secure investment piece for serious collectors of early European and Russian silver. ________________________________________ Specifications • Object: Charka / Schnapps Cup / Spirit Cup • Material: Solid Silver & Gold-gilt (Vermeil) interior • Country of Origin: Russian Empire (Moscow) • Period: 1771–1779 (18th Century) • Technique: Repoussé, chasing, hand-engraving, fire-gilding • Height: 3.3 cm • Length (including handle): 6.8 cm • Width: 4.8 cm • Weight: 27 grams • Capacity: 33 ml ________________________________________ Hallmarks & Provenance Stamped on the exterior base with four highly distinct, authentic period marks (referenced in the standard Postnikova-Loseva catalog): - the last 4 photo. 1. Moscow City Mark: St. George on horseback slaying the dragon. 2. Assay Master: "АА" (Andrey Andreev, active 1771–1779) — Postnikova Catalog No. 2086. 3. Silversmith/Maker: "АА" (Aleksey Afanasiev) — Postnikova Catalog No. 2143. 4. Alderman (Quality Master): "ФП" (Fyodor Petrov, active 1759–1784) — Postnikova Catalog No. 2131. ________________________________________ Condition Report • Condition: Excellent, top-tier antique collection state. • Restorations: 100% original. No restorations, no repairs, and no soldering modifications. • Damage: No dents, no cracks, and no deep scratches. • Engravings: The hand-carved floral/scroll decorations remain sharp and crisp. • Monograms: Pristine history — free from any personalized monograms, initials, or historic erasures. Shipping Information: Via DPD curier. I do not ship to Israel and United States ! Local pickup is not possible.