Object Description
A fantastic pair of antique German silver table ornaments in the form of large model knights in armour, each astride a galloping horse. Gilded silver (slightly worn) with jewelled beads. The knights have carved bakalite faces and helmets with hinged visors which can be opened and closed; in the right hand they each hold a jousting pole, or lance, and in the left they clasp the horse’s reins. The models are very intricate with many separate pieces assembled together. The bases have a naturalist finish. Although similar in size and stance, these models have slight differences. One horse carries a plume on the crest of its head whereas the other sports a bird figure on the head.
Weight 1405 and 1411 grams, total weight 2816 grams, 90.5 troy ounces.
Height 25 and 25.5cm. Spread 20cm excluding the lance. Base 16 x 8cm.
Maker Johann S Kurz.
Hanau, Germany.
Circa 1880.
Defra registration 47DJSW7U.
Marks. Marked on top of the base with German silver marks crown, moon, silver purity mark “800” (800/1000) and makers mark “JK” with a swan for Johann S Kurz (1818 – 1888) .