A remarkable instance of royal artistry has emerged in the auction world. The Winter Egg, a stunning crystal and diamond Fabergé egg, was sold at Christie’s for a staggering £22.9 million, equivalent to about $42 million. This auction took place on November 27, 2023, and marked a new auction record for Fabergé creations.
Significance of the Winter Egg
The Winter Egg is one of just seven Fabergé eggs still in private ownership. Crafted for the Russian imperial family, it draws comparisons to iconic works like the Mona Lisa. Measuring 10 centimeters in height, the egg features finely carved rock crystal adorned with a snowflake design in platinum and approximately 4,500 small diamonds.
Unique Features
Opening the egg reveals a hidden treasure — a delicate basket of quartz flowers representing spring. This exemplary piece showcases the intricate craftsmanship of Peter Carl Fabergé, who produced over 50 unique eggs for the Russian royal family from 1885 to 1917, each containing a surprise.
- Craftsmanship: Designed by Alma Pihl, one of only two eggs she created for the Romanovs.
- Commissioning: Created for Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna as an Easter gift by Czar Nicholas II in 1913.
- Historical Context: The Romanov dynasty ruled Russia for 300 years until the 1917 revolution led to their downfall.
Auction History
This sale surpassed the previous record set in 2007 for a Fabergé egg sold for nearly $26 million. The Winter Egg has quite the history, having been purchased for £450 (approximately $831) when the Communist government liquidated Russia’s art assets in the 1920s. It was believed lost for two decades before resurfacing at a Christie’s auction in 1994, where it fetched over seven million Swiss francs.
In 2002, the egg achieved another record, selling for $13.4 million in New York. Each transaction has highlighted its value and significance within the art world.
Current Landscape
Today, 43 imperial Fabergé eggs still exist, with most housed in museums. Margo Oganesian, head of Christie’s Russian art department, referred to the Winter Egg as “the Mona Lisa for decorative arts,” emphasizing its outstanding craftsmanship and design.
This latest auction underscores the enduring legacy of Fabergé and its connection to Russian imperial history, enhancing its allure among collectors and art enthusiasts alike.
