German Antique Silver Double Box by Wolf & Knell

Object Description

An unusual silver box with domed hinged lids to top and bottom and a double compartment. To each side there are embossed interior scenes of people in old fashioned clothing; drinking, playing musical instruments and relaxing with animals. Original gilt interior. Weight 142 grams, 4.5 troy ounces. Height 7.5 cms. Top measures 7 x 4.5 cms. Marked inside the base with the pseudo marks of Wolf & Knell founded in 1887, merged in 1914 with Gebruder Glaser to form Vereinigte Silberwarenfabriken. Hanau, circa 1900.

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

This attractive box is in very good condition with no damage or restoration. Original bright gilt interior.

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 this item.

Object Details