The unique Mosaic Imperial Egg by Carl Faberge is to take centre stage in a collection going on display at Buckingham Palace.

Made from tiny cut emeralds, rubies and diamonds that are fitted into a cut platinum mesh, the piece includes portraits of the five children of Tsar Nicholas II and Tsarina Alexandra.

The egg was a gift from the Tsar to his wife in 1914 and was confiscated during the Russian Revolution before being purchased by King George V in 1933.

Caroline De Guitaut, curator of the Royal Collection, told the Independent: "It's an extraordinary piece of work because the tiny diamonds and rubies are fitted into a cut platinum mesh."

She added: "It's an exciting proposition for the Royal Collection."

The egg and around 100 other pieces by the designer are going on show at a special summer exhibition in the State Rooms of Buckingham Palace from July 23rd to October 3rd.

In addition to the famous Imperial Easter eggs, there will be delicate flower ornaments, animal sculptures, cigarette cases, photograph frames and desk clocks all made by Faberge.

Source:

Absolutely Fabergé: Exquisite creations get rare showing (14/07/11) 

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