Museum Quality Imperial Russia / Finnish Art Nouveau 813H Silver Sifter Spoon by Gustaf Lindell (Kustaa Hiekka) – Tampere, 1901 – Gilded Shell Bowl An exceptional, museum-grade Art Nouveau (Secessionist) silver sifter/tea strainer spoon, crafted in 1901 in Tampere, Finland, during the Russian Imperial era. This exquisite piece was made in the renowned workshop of Gustaf Lindell, under the direction of the legendary Finnish master goldsmith and philanthropist Kustaa Hiekka (1855–1937). Pieces from this specific early period of his career are highly sought after by collectors of Imperial Russian and Nordic silverware. Design & Craftsmanship: • The Bowl: Beautifully shaped as a scalloped sea shell. It features intricate, hand-pierced decorative cutouts forming star, crescent moon, and droplet motifs designed for elegant sifting or straining. • The Gilding: The interior of the bowl boasts its magnificent, original 24k gold wash (vermeil). The gilding remains perfectly intact with deep, rich coloration and absolutely no signs of wear. • The Handle: Elegantly engraved with fine, naturalistic Art Nouveau floral motifs, leaves, and blossoms. Crucially, the handle is clean of any personal monograms or engravings, which is exceptionally rare for a piece of this age. Hallmarks & Authentication (fully documented on the reverse): • Meister / Maker's Mark: GL (Gustaf Lindell / Kustaa Hiekka workshop). • State Control Mark: The Finnish crown hallmark in a heart-shaped outline. • Silver Purity: 813.H (The legal standard for fine Finnish silver of the era, equivalent to 78 zolotniki). • Year Code: U4 precisely dating the manufacture to the year 1901. • Town Mark: T (Tampere). Condition Report: • Museum Level Condition. Completely original and untouched. • Absolutely no restorations, no repairs, no dents, no bends, and no deep scratches. • The original gilding is vibrant and unrubbed. A true collector's centerpiece that looks as if it has spent the last 125 years in a display cabinet. Specifications: • Material: 813 Silver (Partially Gilded) • Total Weight: 33.35 grams • Total Length: 18.00 cm • Origin: Tampere, Finland (Grand Duchy of Finland, Russian Empire) • Date of Production: 1901 –see the last photo Shipping Information: To Europe via DPD curier. Local pickup is not possible. I do not ship to Israel !