A 19th century Russian silver spice tower.

A nineteenth century Russian silver spice tower, the domed octagonal base rising to octagonal-sided compartments with filigree panels and a hinged door to the lower section, further adorned throughout with suspending bells, birds and flags and the spire with ball terminal below a larger flag and further bird finial. Impressed Russian assay marks to foot rim for St. Petersburg alongside an Assay Master Mark 'O.C' over '1888'. Maximum height to finial measuring 12 1/4 inches (31 cm), gross weight 10 ozt (311 grams). Some quite heavy tarnishing throughout. Parts of the spice tower appear in fair condition but other sections do require some attention, for example the upper section is very loose and is kept in position by two pins, should it be removable? Some discolouration to surface, which varies throughout. Possibly once gilded. Damage to some of the bird, ball and flag finials. Also some likely repairs. Hinged door to lower section appears in good working order. Some minor surface dints and bumps. Foot is very slightly compressed so that it leans and wobbles very slightly. Assay marks located to foot rim only.