CH 3. JEWELLERY _Layout 1 17/12/2012 10:44 Page 22
JEWELLERY
JEWELLERY
The next two coronations to the Russian chronology, that of Alexander II in 1855 and Alexander III in 1883, were as solemn and magnificent at the preceding ones and followed the earlier rituals. The anointment of Nicholas II in 1896 marked the last coronation in Russian history. That
Opposite. 12. An imperial presentation photograph of Alexandra Feodorovna by Gan & Co. depicting the empress in court dress with multiple strands of pearls and bracelets. 29.7 x 18.8cm. BONHAMS
year, the firm of Hahn was commissioned to create one of the small imperial crowns. It was designed after the original by Ducal, which had been worn by empresses since the reign of Paul I (1796-1801). For the coronation of Nicholas II, the Duval version was worn by his mother, the Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna. The replica was worn by his consort Alexandra Feodorovna.34 In keeping with tradition, Emperor Nicholas II was crowned with the grand Imperial gown which had been used at every coronation since the time of Catherine the Great. A new velvet cap was made to be worn under the crown in order to accommodate a scar which
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13. A platinum, diamond and pearl brooch, FabergÊ, St Petersburg, c.1890. Of openwork quatrefoil design set at intervals with pearls; within original fitted case. Width 5cm. BONHAMS/FABERGÉ MUSEUM, BADEN-BADEN
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