Antique Imperial Russian Gilded Silver Amethyst Tobacco Box Dog Bulldog Pug (5653)

Antique Tobacco box  tabbatiere. Sterling silver, gilt washed. Amethyst eyes. Made in Russia by J9 (BG) and assayed by by Nikolay Dubrovin (1822-1855) in Moscow.

Measurements: Length approximately 7 1/2 cm (a little over 1 3/4inches). Weighs 30.8 grams.

Rectangular tobacco box or tabattiere with a dog modelled on the lid. Full relief shape. Looks like a boxer, bulldog or possibly a pug. Eyes are amethysts. Collar engraved FIDELE A FRR - presumably refers to the loyalty of the dog. Surface is gilt washed. Thumbpiece in front aids opening the box.

Marks: on the lid and on the bottom, were interpreted for me as follows: HA is the assayer Nikolay Dubrovin - 1822-1855 in Moscow. Date not fully legible. Maker is J9 or BG in Cyrillic.

Condition: good, original condition. No dings/dents. Some wear to surface, as can be seen in the pictures.