Fabergé takes over the Google Doodle – but why?

Looking at today’s Google Doodle, you may be forgiven for thinking, “what’s with the eggs”? They are in fact representations of Fabergé Eggs, which Google have used today to celebrate the birthday of Peter Carl Fabergé (known by his second name Carl), the man accredited with making the House of Fabergé an internationally celebrated jewellery house.

“Jewellery!” you cry, “so, what’s with the eggs?”.

Gustav Fabergé, Carl’s father, started The House of Fabergé in 1842 in St Petersberg, Russia as a firm making jewellery. They were famed for making highly intricate, elaborate  jewellery and gained royal recognition when a replica of a 4th century BC bangle they produced was seen by Tsar Alexander III, who declared he could not distinguish it from the original. In 1885, Fabergé were given the title Goldsmith by special appointment to the Imperial Crown.

That year Tsar Alexander commissioned Fabergé to make an Easter egg as a gift for his wife. This began a tradition and in total, Fabergé produced 50 Imperial Eggs for the family, of which 42 remain. From 1887, Carl Fabergé was given free reign over the design of the eggs he produced truly stunning works of art, made of carved stone, gold with beautiful enamelling and encrusted with gemstones.

Fabergé Coronation Egg 1887

Lily of the Valley Egg 1898

The Clover Leaf Egg 1902

They also produced miniature eggs which could be worn on neckchains, ornaments, carvings from hard or semi precious stone, figurines, photo frames and trinket boxes. Some of the more notable pieces were carvings of the British Royal Family’s pets. Throughout the quality of the work was tantamount and the slightest fault meant a piece would be rejected.

Today, the name Fabergé lives on and the House of Fabergé  still produces exquisite fine jewellery, which is entirely modern in styling, whilst still honouring the rich heritage of the brand. It is highly elaborate, intricate, gorgeous and above all, fit for a Queen.

Fabergé Kokoshnik Earrings

Sarafan Pearl Ring

I hope you found that interesting. If you’re ever in Moscow you can view 10 of the Imperial Eggs at the Kremlin Armoury Museum. Aren’t they just magnificent? Or if you’re feeling super flush, treat yourself to some of their jewellery. That reminds me, I haven’t check my lottery ticket yet

Enjoy your day!

WSS.

xx

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