Cup Trophy with Moscow Kremlin and Florals, hand-painted in traditional Palekh manner, signed "D Kuznetsova" by the artist, circa late 1940s - mid 1950s.

Silver-plated metal, paint, and lacquer; stands 12 ¾ " tall (32.5 cm); measures approx. 5" in width in its widest section, 4½" at the base. An unusually large and beautiful piece!

The hand-painted patriotic artwork is executed in traditional Palekh folk art manner, while its style is typical "Soviet Empire" of Stalin era. This piece was clearly painted by a very professional and talented artist. Note in particular the central panel a beautifully detailed, almost photographic quality image of the main Spassky tower of the Moscow Kremlin on a sunny day. At the bottom under the tower is a signature of the female artist who painted the cup "D Kuznetsova". The florals in Russian folk style on wave blue background are of similarly stunning quality. Just like the painted artwork, the masterfully done metal parts in high tri-dimensional profile are in the typical early Soviet Empire style virtually unchanged from the late 1930s.

The silvered base is engraved "Transferable Trophy of the Regional Sports Union to the Winner of the Regional Ski Tournament". The word "transferrable" means that the cup was not permanently awarded to a team or an individual, but rather passed from one team to another year after year based on results of the annual tournament. This practice was similar to the transferrable award banners or other prizes temporarily issued to teams of workers or entire enterprises for best results in labor during a particular time period, typically a year.

The trophy is in good overall condition. It held its shape perfectly over the decades and has none of the usual dents or nicks. As is often the case, the lid is missing. There are chips to the lacquered blue portions of the base and some less significant chips and flakes to the blue parts at the very top under the lip. The artwork on the main portion of the cup however is bright and almost perfectly preserved having only a couple of nearly unnoticeable miniscule flakes, free of scratches or other significant wear. The base is sturdy and sound, although it has some barely perceptible bumps to its bottom edge. The silver plating is practically prefect throughout and shows very attractive patina.

Overall, this is an extremely impressive and uncommon piece. Its massive size suggests that it might have been awarded to an enterprise or team of workers rather than an individual. Whatever may be the case, this trophy can now serve as the important centerpiece of a serious Soviet collection.

Please note, medal in our photo is for size reference.

Item# 36261

$390.00