D. A. - Ulcior - Metal

Antique Kumgan (Aftaba) Water Ewer. Sheffield Silver. D.A. Borisov Factory, Moscow, 1830–1850s. Rare!

I am offering a rare collectible object of religious and everyday significance: an oriental water ewer (kumgan / aftaba), manufactured in the Russian Empire in the mid-19th century (the era of Emperor Nicholas I, 1830–1850s).

Historical value and uniqueness:
This piece is a remarkable example of so-called “Russian export production.” It was specifically made in Moscow at the famous factory of merchant Dorofey Avdeevich Borisov for export to the Caucasus and Central Asia, as well as for sale to prominent oriental merchants. The ewer is unique because it combines a traditional Asian silhouette with the impeccable quality of Moscow industrial silver craftsmanship of that period.

Hallmarks:
The underside of the ewer bears a clearly struck, complete circular factory hallmark (maker’s mark). Along the upper arc: “FABRIKA BORISOVA” (“Borisov Factory”), in the center the initials of the owner: “D.A.” (Dorofey Avdeevich), and at the bottom: “V MOSKVE” (“In Moscow”, using the pre-revolutionary spelling). The mark is deeply stamped, clearly legible, and authentic.

Technology:
High-quality Sheffield silver (silver-plated copper) from the Imperial Russian period. The body of the ewer is made of copper, covered with a dense layer of silver applied using traditional Sheffield plating technology.

Condition:
Fully authentic collector’s condition, with no modern restoration or alterations. The piece retains a beautiful aged patina (a deep dark oxidation layer on the copper and silver surfaces). The original shape, hinged lid, spout, and handle are fully preserved. There are natural signs of use consistent with approximately 170 years of age: areas of silver wear revealing the darker copper base beneath, as well as minor small dents on the body, which only enhance the historical character of the object.

The ewer has not undergone aggressive chemical or mechanical polishing. It has been carefully cleaned only from household dust. An excellent and rare example for a collection of Russian imperial-era silver objects made for the oriental market, as well as a valuable historical artifact.