Old and rare Russian/Byzantine Empire letter opener This letter opener is from the Russian Imperial Guard and dates from circa 1890. The Russian imperial guard consisted of the joint military units who served as personal guards of the Tsar of the Russian empire until the Russian Revolution of 1917. It is made of enamel parts on brass (cloisonné). An old enamel technique where metal edges are applied to the substrate to keep the different colours of the enamel separate. The peacock and a double-headed eagle are associated with the Byzantine Empire. The eagle is the symbol of power and dominion and the peacock symbolises and personifies mercy and dignity. In very good condition, with its original chain.