According to media reports, the scrap metal dealer, who wished to remain anonymous, purchased the egg at a market in the United States for about US$14,000 (AU$15,500).
Having been unsuccessful in finding a buyer for the egg’s gold, the dealer reportedly turned to the internet and was stunned after a keyword search revealed he might be in possession of a precious historical artwork.
When the man approached London-based antique dealer Wartski, the dealer not only confirmed that the piece was a genuine Peter Carl Fabergé egg, but that it was one of eight Imperial Easter Eggs that had been lost. It is now the third to be found.
Fabergé delivered a total of 50 Imperial Easter Eggs to Russian emperors Alexander III and Nicholas II from 1885 to 1916, and according to Wartski’s website, the recently recovered egg was given by Alexander II to Empress Marie Feodorovna for Easter in 1887.
The interior of the egg, which stands on its original tripod pedestal, also contains a women’s watch by Swiss watch brand Vacheron Constantin.
Following its discovery, Wartski acquired the egg for a private collector, choosing not to disclose the name of its new owner or the price paid.
The egg will be exhibited at Wartski in London from 14 April to 17 April, marking the first time it has been seen in public for 112 years.
Peter Carl Fabergé was a renowned jeweller and goldsmith to the Russian Imperial Court. Today, Fabergé is a global luxury jewellery brand.
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