Few objects in the world command the same level of mystique and reverence as the Imperial Fabergé eggs. Created by the House of Fabergé for the Russian Imperial family between 1885 and 1916, these jeweled masterpieces are the pinnacle of craftsmanship, luxury, and historical romance. Of the 50 Imperial eggs ever made, only 43 are known to survive, making the chance to see one in person a truly rare and unforgettable experience.
For collectors and enthusiasts in New York City, the dream of seeing these treasures is a reality. The city is home to a small but significant public collection, offering a direct link to the opulent world of the Romanovs. Here’s where you can find these legendary works of art in 2025.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art: A Royal Treasure in NYC
The primary destination for any Fabergé seeker in New York is The Metropolitan Museum of Art. The Met is the custodian of several exquisite Fabergé pieces, most notably from the Matilda Geddings Gray Foundation Collection.
This celebrated collection was assembled by Matilda Geddings Gray, an American heiress and sophisticated collector who began acquiring Fabergé pieces in the 1930s when the Russian jeweler was still relatively unknown in the United States.
Highlights of the Collection:
- The Imperial Napoleonic Egg (1912): This is the star of the collection. Created for Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna, it commemorates the centenary of Russia’s victory over Napoleon. Crafted from gold, enamel, and diamonds, the egg opens to reveal a surprise: an intricate, six-panel miniature screen depicting regiments of which the Empress was an honorary colonel.
- The Imperial Caucasus Egg (1893): Another masterpiece, this egg features detailed miniature paintings of Abastumani, a scenic spot in the Caucasus where Grand Duke George spent much of his life.
Visitor Information:
These priceless objects are typically on display in the European Sculpture and Decorative Arts galleries on the first floor of The Met’s Fifth Avenue location. However, as collections are sometimes rotated or loaned, it is always wise to check the museum’s official website for the most current information on what is on view before planning your visit.
Beyond the Museum: Auction Houses and Special Exhibitions
While The Met offers a permanent home for its collection, it’s not the only place in NYC where a Fabergé egg might appear. The world’s leading auction houses, Christie’s and Sotheby’s, have their North American headquarters in Manhattan.
On the rare occasion that a Fabergé egg or other significant work by the artist comes to market, these auction houses will often hold public exhibitions in the weeks leading up to the sale. These events offer a fleeting, museum-quality opportunity to see a piece of history that is often held in private collections. Collectors and enthusiasts should monitor the auction schedules of these houses for announcements of any upcoming sales of Russian art.
The Enduring Value of a Fabergé Egg
Seeing a Fabergé egg in person is to understand why they are such powerful assets. Their value is derived from an unmatched combination of factors: extreme rarity, historical provenance linking them to the last Tsars of Russia, the highest quality materials, and unparalleled artistry. They are not just objects; they are tangible pieces of history, and their value has continued to appreciate steadily over time.
This same principle of value—derived from rarity, quality, and provenance—applies to a wide range of luxury collectibles.
The story and value of your own collectibles deserve expert appreciation. To understand the true market worth of your high-end assets, contact New York Loan Company for a confidential appraisal.
