The name Fabergé brings to mind exquisitely designed jewellery and decorative objects and the celebrated Easter eggs made for the Russian Imperial family. Cynthia’s talk will look at the materials and techniques that defined the enduring appeal of the House of Fabergé, the firm’s business innovations, and the patronage that ensured its prestige.

Cynthia Coleman Sparke is an independent researcher, author and lecturer on Russian pre-Revolutionary works of art, consulting regularly on Fabergé for auction houses. Having grown up in a family of Russian art collectors and lived on and off in Moscow and St Petersburg, Cynthia Coleman Sparke was destined for a career in Russian art. Previously, Cynthia ran the Russian Department for Christie’s in New York and worked for Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens in Washington DC. This was followed by a project at the Alexander Palace in Tsarskoe Selo helping with the restoration of Tsar Nicholas II's last residence. Her book Russian Decorative Arts was published in 2014 by the Antique Collectors’ Club.

This talk will be conducted via Zoom, please register your attendance via Eventbrite to receive a link via email to join.

Dorich House Museum is delighted to announce an exciting online programme of Russian themed talks and activities for the whole family from 4-5 December 2020 - click here to learn more.

Image: Detail of Silver gilt kovsh by Karl Fabergé Photo: Ellie Laycock