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 faux ivory 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 25.5 cms. Spread 20 cms excluding the lance. Base 16 x 8 cms. 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) . Hanoi, Germany. Circa 1880.

Object Literature

The antique silver industry of Hanau specialised in excellent copies of old master silversmiths’ work, particularly Nuremberg pieces, double lady cups, old goblets, snuff boxes and so on. These copies were marked with fantasy marks, somewhat resembling old marks, which also harmonized with the style of the piece. For example, French rococo style reproductions are marked with French looking marks, German seventeenth century-inspired pieces got German-looking marks, and so on. These marks were usually in a style reminiscent of seventeenth and eighteenth century maker’s marks.

Object Condition

These fine antique silver horse and rider models are in very good condition with no damage or restoration. Very large and impressive with good gauge silver and weight. 1 gem stone missing.

Please note that this item is not new and will show moderate signs of wear commensurate with age. Reflections in the photograph may detract from the true representation of these items.

Object Classification