Fifteenth Anniversary (Fabergé egg)

Fifteenth Anniversary egg

Fifteenth Anniversary (Fabergé egg) is one of the most celebrated and intricate pieces created by the renowned Russian jeweler Peter Carl Fabergé. This exquisite artifact was crafted in 1911, commissioned by Tsar Nicholas II of Russia as an anniversary gift for his wife, Empress Alexandra Fyodorovna. The egg is a remarkable example of the luxury and craftsmanship associated with the Fabergé eggs, a series of more than 50 jeweled eggs made under the supervision of Peter Carl Fabergé for the Russian Imperial family and private collectors.

Description

The Fifteenth Anniversary Egg is made from gold, enamel, diamonds, and precious stones. It stands out for its elaborate design and the intricate details that cover its surface. The egg's exterior is divided into panels that are decorated with miniature portraits of Tsar Nicholas II, Empress Alexandra, and their five children: Olga Nikolaevna, Tatiana Nikolaevna, Maria Nikolaevna, Anastasia Nikolaevna, and Alexei Nikolaevich. These portraits are framed by diamond-set borders, making the egg not only a piece of art but also a family memento.

The egg's shell opens to reveal a surprise, a common feature in Fabergé eggs, which in this case is a three-fold screen holding 15 miniature paintings. These paintings depict significant moments and achievements in the reign of Nicholas II, further personalizing the gift and serving as a historical record of his rule up to that point.

Historical Context

The Fifteenth Anniversary Egg was created during a tumultuous period in Russian history, on the brink of the Russian Revolution. It symbolizes the opulence of the Imperial court amidst the growing unrest among the Russian populace. The egg is not only a testament to the personal relationship between Nicholas II and Alexandra but also an emblem of the end of an era for the Russian monarchy.

Current Location

After the Russian Revolution, many of the Imperial Fabergé eggs were sold abroad as part of the Soviet government's efforts to acquire foreign currency. The Fifteenth Anniversary Egg, like many others, left Russia. Its current location is in a private collection, and it occasionally appears in exhibitions around the world, allowing the public to glimpse into the lavish world of the last Tsars of Russia.

Significance

The Fifteenth Anniversary Egg is significant for several reasons. It is a masterpiece of jeweler's art, showcasing the exceptional skills of Fabergé and his craftsmen. It also has historical importance, representing the personal and political history of the Russian Imperial family. Furthermore, it is a symbol of the extravagance that characterized the final years of the Russian Empire.