Author Description

Carl Faberge's unparalleled creativity and craftsmanship won him the recognition of the Russian Imperial Court at the turn of the last century. Few objects are as universally loved as his jewel-encrusted Easter eggs crafted for the last two czars of Russia, each containing a surprise. Featured in this delightful introduction to the House of Faberge is a selection of his most celebrated works that have found their way into American collections. Easter eggs are just a portion of this master's prodigious production which comprised over 150,000 jewels, silver pieces, and objects of art. The latter are fantasies in gold, enamel, and hardstone and include elegant picture frames and cigarette cases created for the ruling families of Europe and other wealthy patrons. Intimate glimpses into the world of this ingenious designer are captured through excerpts from letters and quotes from an adoring press. The Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna exclaimed upon receiving a Faberge egg, "It is an unbelievably beautiful and superbly fine piece of work. Faberge is the greatest genius of our time...." The fifty-four choice objects, beautifully photographed, are from American public and private collections. The book also contains a chronology and a reading list.