the glass inkwell of tapered square section, the silver figural hinged cover in the form of a medieval sage studying a scroll, the silver base-mount decorated with trees and mushrooms, the green-slate grey marble base applied with a silver plaque engraved in Russian with a dedicatory inscription to A.E. Vandam, 84 standard   

attractive and crisp; the mount loose
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Aleksei Efimovich Vandam (born Edrikhin, 1867-1933) eventually achieved the rank of Major General (1917); during his military career he published a number of works advocating Russian expansion, particularly in the south. The subject of the inkwell, selected by his fellow officers, was apt for the prolific writer. The First Kiev Artel was founded in 1900 and produced a wide variety of silver vessels as well as decorations. The quality of its work is indicated in part by the fact that Fabergé's Kiev branch hired away several artel members between 1905 and 1910.