Imperial Barometer
Palisander, silver gilt, ruby; 14 x 12.5 cm
by House of Fabergé and Johan Viktor Aarne, 1900–01
Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, Ohio

In 1885, the House of Fabergé obtained an official warrant to supply objects to both the imperial household and the Russian state, solidifying its position as the premier shop for royal family members seeking presents for the Tsar, who had virtually everything one could desire. Historical records from this era provide fascinating insights into the purchases made, such as the notable acquisition in 1901 by Grand Duke Michael Alexandrovich, the Tsar's brother. Just before his brother's 33rd birthday, Grand Duke Michael purchased a fine barometer in the elegant neoclassical style, crafted from palisander wood. The detailed description of this barometer remarkably matches the one currently housed at the Cleveland Museum of Art, strongly suggesting they are one and the same. Following the Soviet Union's decision between 1934 and 1939 to sell off former imperial possessions as part of a broader effort to bolster the state treasury, this barometer was likely included in those sales.