Decorative ornament - Germany - German Silver Seal

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Current bid
€ 53
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Dési van Rhee
Expert
Selected by Dési van Rhee

Over 20 years' experience in antiques with a background in art history.

Estimate  € 180 - € 220
AT
€53
AT
€46
AT
€41

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An antique Continental .800 silver desk seal dating from circa 1895–1915, with a dog head handle, an engraved heraldic matrix, and dimensions 5.5 cm high, 2.5 cm wide, 2.5 cm deep, weighing 30 g, made in Germany.

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Description from the seller

A charming and highly decorative Continental .800 silver desk seal, dating to the late 19th or early 20th century (circa 1895–1915). The handle is beautifully modelled as the expressive head of a dog with striking amber glass eyes, finely chased fur, and a detailed collar. While the design could easily be likened to a pug, it is perhaps more accurately described as a stylised historical interpretation of a mastiff or bulldog type, reflecting the artistic rather than anatomical approach often seen in period novelty silver. The seal retains its original engraved heraldic matrix featuring a coat of arms, adding further character and suggesting it was commissioned as a personal desk accessory.
Marked .800 silver in two places, this is a wonderfully sculptural and collectible example of Continental novelty silver, combining practical function with exceptional decorative appeal. Also tested by a jeweller.
Perfect for collectors of antique silver, desk antiques, or canine-themed objects.

A charming and highly decorative Continental .800 silver desk seal, dating to the late 19th or early 20th century (circa 1895–1915). The handle is beautifully modelled as the expressive head of a dog with striking amber glass eyes, finely chased fur, and a detailed collar. While the design could easily be likened to a pug, it is perhaps more accurately described as a stylised historical interpretation of a mastiff or bulldog type, reflecting the artistic rather than anatomical approach often seen in period novelty silver. The seal retains its original engraved heraldic matrix featuring a coat of arms, adding further character and suggesting it was commissioned as a personal desk accessory.
Marked .800 silver in two places, this is a wonderfully sculptural and collectible example of Continental novelty silver, combining practical function with exceptional decorative appeal. Also tested by a jeweller.
Perfect for collectors of antique silver, desk antiques, or canine-themed objects.

Details

Era
1400-1900
Style subtype
Victorian
Gross weight
30 g
Silver type
.800 silver
Title additional information
German Silver Seal
Number of objects
1
Material
Silver
Country of origin
Germany
Style
Antique
Condition
Excellent condition: barely used with minimal signs of wear
Height
5.5 cm
Width
2.5 cm
Depth
2.5 cm
Estimated period
1900-1910, 1850-1900
IrelandVerified
355
Objects sold
92.31%
Private

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