£3,250.00
An exceptionally unusual and evocative Russian painted treen vessel, turned and deeply hollowed from a single substantial block of dense hardwood, possibly maple, and decorated in richly coloured polychrome with the portrait of a crowned sovereign and the Russian double-headed eagle.
An exceptionally unusual and evocative Russian painted treen vessel, turned and deeply hollowed from a single substantial block of dense hardwood, possibly maple, and decorated in richly coloured polychrome with the portrait of a crowned sovereign and the Russian double-headed eagle.
Russian and potentially dating from the second half of the 17th century, the vessel presents an intriguing combination of traditional woodworking, heraldic imagery and dynastic symbolism.
Of substantial cylindrical form, the vessel has been individually turned rather than coopered or assembled. The unpainted underside retains pronounced concentric turning marks and a central turning point, while corresponding tool marks remain visible within the deeply hollowed interior. The considerable weight and exceptionally close grain of the timber suggest a dense hardwood, possibly maple.
The exterior is painted with elaborate scrolling decoration in deep green and vermilion red
To one side is a striking portrait of a crowned Muscovite sovereign contained within an elaborate cartouche. He is depicted in ceremonial red dress, holding regalia, including a sceptre and a orb. Traces of a painted inscription survive around the portrait, although age and surface loss have rendered the wording indistinct.
The opposing side carries an equally prominent crowned double-headed eagle, one of the principal emblems of the Russian state. The eagle appears beneath a three-crown arrangement and seems to carry objects consistent with the sceptre and orb within its claws. It is enclosed within a decorative shield-shaped cartouche surrounded by scrolling foliate ornament.
This heraldic treatment is potentially significant when considering the object's age. The three-crowned form of the Russian eagle developed during the 17th century, while the combination of the eagle with sceptre and orb became established during the reign of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich and was formally incorporated into the state heraldic tradition later in the century.
A broad ornamental border encircles the upper section, composed of repeating geometric and foliate motifs in red and green. Further painted decoration continues around the inner rim, while the interior itself has been left largely undecorated, allowing the colour and character of the timber to remain visible.
Its proportions are compatible with the storage or presentation of a bottle, but we would not describe it definitively as a wine cooler. It may instead have served as a table, drinking, presentation or ceremonial vessel.
What makes the piece particularly compelling is the deliberate relationship between its two principal images: sovereign on one side and state eagle on the other. Rather than purely decorative folk ornament, the scheme appears to communicate dynastic or state identity and may have commemorative or ceremonial significance.
The surface has developed considerable character through age and use. There are extensive areas of rubbing and wear to the painted decoration, losses exposing the timber beneath, scratches, small edge chips and marks throughout. The underside and interior retain historic tool and use marks.
Importantly, the surviving decoration has not been over-restored. The areas of loss allow the construction and timber beneath to be clearly observed and contribute considerably to the object's powerful, untouched appearance.
Very good and highly evocative condition considering the possible age of the object.
Extensive historic wear, rubbing and losses to the polychrome painted surface, together with scratches, abrasions, small chips, marks and irregularities to the timber. The underside displays substantial historic turning and use marks.
The interior similarly shows considerable evidence of hand turning and historic use.
Height: 22.5 cm / 8.9 inches
Width: 18 cm / 7.1 inches
Depth: 18 cm / 7.1 inches
Weight: 1.3 kg / 2.9 lbs
Every item offered by Shackleton Fox is carefully inspected, prepared, and where necessary conserved within our workshop prior to sale.
As heritage craftsmen and antique specialists, we believe in preserving the authenticity and integrity of each piece. Original finishes, patina, wear, and signs of age are retained wherever possible, as these elements contribute to both character and historical significance.
When restoration, rewiring, repairs, or conservation work is required, it is undertaken sympathetically using traditional techniques and materials appropriate to the period of the piece. Our philosophy is one of careful stewardship rather than unnecessary restoration, ensuring antiques remain both functional and historically respectful.
The result is a collection of pieces that have been thoughtfully prepared, allowing future owners to enjoy them with confidence while preserving their unique story and character.
