Antique Fabergé 18K Vermeil Silver Monkey Figure by Julius Rappoport (c. 1880s)

An extraordinary and highly collectible antique solid silver-gilt (vermeil) monkey figurine crafted by the legendary House of Fabergé. This remarkable piece was created by Fabergé’s premier silversmith, the esteemed workmaster Julius Rappoport, dating to the circa 1880s period. Masterfully cast in high-purity 88 silver and finished with a rich 18k gold plating, this piece is an exceptional example of late 19th-century luxury animalier art.

Historical Context & Maker’s Provenance

The House of Fabergé is globally synonymous with unparalleled craftsmanship and imperial luxury. Julius Rappoport (1851–1917), whose distinct “I.P.” hallmark graces this piece, was Fabergé’s most significant and prolific silversmith. Opening his own workshop in the early 1880s before becoming an exclusive workmaster for Fabergé, Rappoport was celebrated specifically for his magnificent cast silver animal figures and monumental silver objects.

Rappoport’s animalier creations are highly sought after by collectors for their dynamic realism, intricate texturing, and character. This monkey figurine perfectly encapsulates his masterful ability to capture both the anatomy and the whimsical personality of the subject, representing the zenith of late 19th-century silversmithing.

Design & Craftsmanship

As seen in the photos, the figure depicts a seated monkey in a naturalistic, contemplative pose with one hand gently raised. The craftsmanship is breathtaking, featuring:

• Intricate Chasing: The heavy, realistic texturing of the fur is meticulously detailed, beautifully capturing the light across the figure’s back and shoulders .

• Expressive Detail: The face is finely sculpted with deeply set, striking red eyes that provide a captivating contrast against the rich gold finish.

• Premium Materials: Cast in dense, solid high-purity 88 silver and enveloped in a radiant 18k gold vermeil that retains a beautiful, warm luster.

Specifications & Hallmarks

The underside of the figure bears a complete and clear suite of authentic period hallmarks:

• Maker: House of Fabergé (Stamped fully with the Fabergé hallmark)

• Workmaster: Julius Rappoport (Stamped with the “I.P.” hallmark)

• Purity Mark: Old 88 high-purity silver hallmark (equivalent to 91.6% pure silver, a higher grade than standard sterling)

• Warrant: The round Imperial Warrant eagle hallmark, signifying the firm’s elite status as supplier to the Imperial Court

• Inventory/Scratch Number: Hand-engraved “3274”

• Height: 46 mm

• Weight: 70 grams

Condition Report

This museum-quality piece is in excellent antique condition. The 18k gold vermeil remains remarkably vibrant with an elegant patina commensurate with its 19th-century age. The intricate chasing of the fur and the delicate details of the face and hands are fully intact and crisp. The hallmarks on the base are deeply struck and highly legible. Please review all provided photographs carefully, as they are an integral part of the description.

It comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $15,000.00

Shipping & Handling: This highly valuable antique will be packed with the utmost care, fully insured, and shipped via expedited tracked courier service to ensure safe and secure delivery to your collection. Signature confirmation will be required upon delivery.