30 Facts About Faberge Eggs

The Origins of Fabergé Eggs

Fabergé eggs are synonymous with luxury and craftsmanship. These jeweled eggs have a rich history that dates back to the Russian Empire. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about these exquisite creations.

1. Peter Carl Fabergé was the mastermind behind these eggs. He was a renowned Russian jeweler who created the first Fabergé egg in 1885.

2. The first Fabergé egg was commissioned by Tsar Alexander III as an Easter gift for his wife, Empress Maria Feodorovna.

3. Known as the Hen Egg, the first creation featured a white enameled shell that opened to reveal a golden yolk, which in turn contained a golden hen and a miniature diamond crown.

The Imperial Connection

The Fabergé eggs are closely linked to the Russian Imperial family. These eggs were not just decorative items but also symbols of power and opulence.

4. 50 Imperial eggs were created for the Russian Tsars Alexander III and Nicholas II between 1885 and 1917.

5. Each egg contained a surprise inside, ranging from miniature portraits to intricate mechanical devices.

6. The Imperial Coronation Egg is one of the most famous. It commemorated the coronation of Tsar Nicholas II and featured a miniature replica of the Imperial coach.

Craftsmanship and Design

The intricate design and craftsmanship of Fabergé eggs are what make them truly unique. Each egg is a masterpiece in its own right.

7. Fabergé employed a team of highly skilled artisans, including goldsmiths, enamelers, and jewelers, to create these eggs.

8. The eggs were made using precious materials such as gold, silver, diamonds, and pearls.

9. The Mosaic Egg is a stunning example of craftsmanship, featuring a surface covered in tiny, multicolored gemstones arranged in a mosaic pattern.

Historical Significance

Fabergé eggs are not just beautiful objects; they also hold significant historical value. They offer a glimpse into a bygone era of Russian history.

10. The Russian Revolution of 1917 led to the downfall of the Romanov dynasty, and many Fabergé eggs were lost or sold.

11. The House of Fabergé was nationalized by the Bolsheviks, and Peter Carl Fabergé fled Russia, never to return.

12. Some eggs were smuggled out of Russia and ended up in private collections around the world.

Modern-Day Fabergé Eggs

Even today, Fabergé eggs continue to captivate collectors and art enthusiasts. Their legacy lives on through modern interpretations and exhibitions.

13. The Fabergé brand was revived in the 21st century, and new eggs are still being created, albeit in limited numbers.

14. Modern Fabergé eggs often feature contemporary designs while maintaining the traditional craftsmanship.

15. The Fabergé Big Egg Hunt in 2012 saw artists from around the world create unique egg designs, which were then auctioned for charity.

Famous Collectors

Over the years, Fabergé eggs have attracted the attention of many famous collectors. These individuals have played a crucial role in preserving these masterpieces.

16. Queen Elizabeth II owns three Fabergé eggs, which are part of the Royal Collection.

17. Malcolm Forbes, the American publisher, amassed one of the largest private collections of Fabergé eggs.

18. Viktor Vekselberg, a Russian billionaire, purchased nine Imperial eggs from the Forbes collection in 2004.

The Hunt for Lost Eggs

Several Fabergé eggs have gone missing over the years, sparking a global hunt to locate these lost treasures.

19. Eight Imperial eggs are still unaccounted for, and their whereabouts remain a mystery.

20. The Third Imperial Egg was rediscovered in 2014 after being lost for over a century. It was found by a scrap metal dealer in the United States.

21. The Blue Serpent Clock Egg is another missing egg that has captivated treasure hunters and historians alike.

Record-Breaking Sales

Fabergé eggs have fetched astronomical prices at auctions, reflecting their immense value and desirability.

22. The Rothschild Egg sold for $18.5 million at a Christie's auction in 2007, setting a record for the most expensive Fabergé egg ever sold.

23. The Winter Egg, known for its rock crystal and platinum design, was sold for $9.6 million in 2002.

24. The Bay Tree Egg fetched $2.2 million at a Sotheby's auction in 1994.

Cultural Impact

Fabergé eggs have left an indelible mark on popular culture, inspiring everything from films to fashion.

25. The James Bond film "Octopussy" featured a Fabergé egg as a central plot element.

26. The animated film "Anastasia" includes a Fabergé egg as a key storyline device.

27. Fashion designers like Karl Lagerfeld have drawn inspiration from Fabergé eggs for their collections.

Fun Facts

Let's wrap up with some fun and quirky facts about Fabergé eggs that you might not know.

28. The largest Fabergé egg ever made is the "Moscow Kremlin Egg," which stands over a foot tall.

29. The smallest egg is the "Orange Tree Egg," which is only 3.2 inches tall.

30. Fabergé eggs have even made their way into video games, appearing as collectible items in various titles.

The Enduring Allure of Fabergé Eggs

Fabergé eggs have fascinated people for over a century. These intricate creations blend art, history, and luxury in a way few objects can. Each egg tells a story, from the opulence of the Russian Imperial family to the craftsmanship of Peter Carl Fabergé. Collectors and museums worldwide treasure these masterpieces, ensuring their legacy endures.

Whether adorned with diamonds, pearls, or intricate enamel work, each egg is a testament to human creativity and skill. They remind us of a bygone era of elegance and grandeur. As you explore the world of Fabergé eggs, you'll uncover layers of history and artistry that continue to captivate and inspire.

So next time you see one of these exquisite pieces, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind it. Fabergé eggs are more than just beautiful objects; they're a window into a rich and fascinating past.