Antokolsky’s Mephistopheles, Fabergé Collectibles Available at Doyle

This upcoming auction from Doyle features a wide range of sculpture, English and Continental silver, Fabergé items, and other collectibles. Leading the catalog is a signed bronze sculpture by Mark Antokolsky. This work depicts the mythical demon named Mephistopheles, who figures prominently in the Faust legend as the Devil’s representative. Antokolsky, a prominent Russian sculptor of the late 19th century, developed his version of Mephistopheles to serve as a foil for a Christ sculpture that he was working on around the same period. “My Mephistopheles is the product of all ages, especially our age. My Mephistopheles is mystery, plague, decay, which is carried in the air; it infects and kills people,” Antokolsky wrote in 1883. The demon appears in a pensive, thoughtful pose in this sculpture with his chin and both hands resting on a knee. 

Fabergé items in the catalog include a 1903-04 cigarette case from the famed Russian company. The case is crafted in jeweled gold and guilloché pink enamel. The front features the engraved image of a basket suspended from a ribbon, surrounded by leafy branches. Assorted silver and tableware will be available as well, ranging from a silver-gilt cloisonné enamel cup and saucer set to an Italian sterling silver tea and coffee service. Bidders can also consider Russian religious icons, cut glass vases, and more. Visit Doyle’s website to view the full Fabergé & Vertu / English & Continental Silver catalog and register to bid.