Pansy (Fabergé egg)

File:Pansy faberge.png

File:Pansy faberge.png

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Year delivered	1899
Customer	Maria Feodorovna
Recipient	Maria Feodorovna
Individual or institution
Year of acquisition
Workmaster	Michael Perkhin
Materials used	Gold, enamel, diamonds
Height	9.5 cm

The Pansy (Fabergé egg) is one of the exquisite Imperial Fabergé eggs created by the renowned Russian jeweler Peter Carl Fabergé. This particular egg was crafted in 1899 and was presented to Maria Feodorovna, the Dowager Empress of Russia, by her son, Nicholas II.

Design and Craftsmanship

The Pansy egg is a testament to the exceptional artistry and craftsmanship of the House of Fabergé. It was designed and executed by the workmaster Michael Perkhin, who was one of Fabergé's most talented artisans. The egg stands at 9.5 cm tall and is made from a combination of gold, enamel, and diamonds.

The exterior of the egg is adorned with a delicate enamel finish that mimics the appearance of a pansy flower, a symbol of remembrance and thoughtfulness. The petals are crafted with a rich purple hue, accented with white and yellow, and are set against a background of gold. The use of enamel in this manner showcases the technical prowess of Fabergé's workshop in achieving such lifelike representations.

Surprise

As with many of the Imperial Fabergé eggs, the Pansy egg contains a hidden "surprise" within. Upon opening the egg, one would find a miniature portrait of Nicholas II, set in a frame of diamonds. This portrait was a personal and intimate gift, symbolizing the close bond between the Tsar and his mother.

Historical Context

The Pansy egg was created during a period of great opulence in the Russian Empire, a time when the Romanov family commissioned numerous luxurious items from Fabergé. These eggs were not only symbols of wealth and power but also served as personal gifts that carried sentimental value.

The tradition of gifting Fabergé eggs began with Alexander III of Russia, who commissioned the first egg for his wife, Maria Feodorovna, in 1885. This tradition was continued by their son, Nicholas II, who presented eggs to both his mother and his wife, Alexandra Feodorovna.

Provenance

The Pansy egg remained in the possession of the Russian Imperial family until the Russian Revolution of 1917, after which many of the Fabergé eggs were sold or lost. The current whereabouts of the Pansy egg are unknown, making it one of the many lost treasures of the Fabergé collection.

Also see

• Imperial Fabergé eggs
• Peter Carl Fabergé
• House of Fabergé
• Nicholas II of Russia
• Maria Feodorovna (Dagmar of Denmark)