Silver bowl Bratina Nielloa - 925 silver gold-plated

The shape of this silver bowl is no coincidence: it follows the Russian kovsh, a traditional ladle in the stylized form of a bird, which was once gifted as a sign of special trust. This bratina made of solid 925 sterling silver features dense floral niello ornamentation on a silver ground, interspersed with gilded lines, with an openwork gilded spiral handle as its most striking detail. A decorative object for a display case or shelf — not tableware for food or drinks.

At a glance

• Material: 925 sterling silver, solid, with niello ornamentation and fire-gilding
• Dimensions: W 305 mm x H 220 mm
• Volume: 1,000 ml
• Weight: approx. 926.5 g
• Interior: fully gilded (warm yellow gold)
• Handle: openwork, gilded, spiral-shaped with niello ornament
• Decor: 3 decorative zones, dense floral niello ornamentation (scrollwork, tulips, palmettes)
• Base: turned, with a gilded decorative ring
• Hallmark: yes

Material and craftsmanship

The body of this bratina is hand-raised from 925 sterling silver and subsequently chased until the characteristic bird shape reaches its final contour. The floral ornamentation — scrollwork opening into tulips, symmetrically arranged palmettes — is first engraved and then filled with black niello paste, fired, and polished smooth. This bond is chemical-physical in nature rather than a lacquer: it is embedded within the silver itself and gains depth with every polish. Gilded lines traverse the niello fabric and provide light against the dark areas. The interior is fully fire-gilded, as is the openwork spiral handle and the decorative ring on the turned base. The bowl is hallmarked.

Usage and occasions

This bratina is intended as a prestigious decorative object — for a display case, a living room shelf, or the desk of a collector of Russian silversmithing. The kovsh shape carries long-standing symbolism in Russian culture: anyone who once received such a silver vessel from the Tsar belonged to his inner circle of trust. As a gift, this silver bowl is suitable for occasions that are meant to last — a milestone company anniversary, a silver wedding anniversary, a special honor, or a diplomatic gift. For collectors who already own niello objects from Veliky Ustyug, this piece also holds a unique position due to its size and density of technique.

Care

Clean the silver surfaces with a soft silver cloth, and if necessary, with mild dish soap and warm water — never in the dishwasher and never with abrasive cleaners. For stubborn spots, a special silver polish is suitable, which should be applied exclusively to the polished silver surfaces, not to the niello itself. The more frequently you polish the bratina, the more clearly the contrast between the bright silver and the deep niello will emerge. Store the piece in a closed container to avoid unnecessary oxidation.

Frequently asked questions

Is this bratina intended for drinking or for food?

No. This silver bowl is designed as a decorative object — for a display case, a shelf, or a prestigious living space. It is not functional tableware for food or drinks.

What is a kovsh and why does this bowl have this shape?

The kovsh is a traditional Russian ladle in the stylized shape of a bird. In Russian history, a silver or gold kovsh was a gift from the Tsar to particularly trusted individuals. This bratina adopts the form and meaning of this tradition.

How is the contrast between silver, niello, and gold created?

The floral ornamentation is engraved and filled with black niello paste, which forms a permanent bond with the silver during the firing process. Subsequently, fine lines and the interior are fire-gilded, bringing black, silver, and gold together on one surface.

You might also be interested in

You can find more decorative pieces made of 925 silver in our home accessories. For special occasions and recipients, it is also worth taking a look at our gift ideas made of 925 sterling silver.