Antique Silver Belle with Figural Fowl-Bearing Countryman Handle

Two-handled sterling silver trophy cup. Made by Whiting, C 1890. Baluster body with 2 bracket handles on dome foot. Incised lines, foliage, and stylized egg-and-dart motif. Scalloped...

European silver and enamel cigarette case, ca 1920. Rectangular, chamfered, and hinged. On cover, a horse's head appears in an entryway, with two protective borzoi dogs standing guar...

This charming antique sculpture was crafted by WMF, short for Württembergische Metallwarenfabrik, a renowned German manufacturer of fine metalware founded in 1853 and still in operation today. While best known for its tableware designs, WMF also produced a variety of decorative objects, including sculptures, exemplified by this delightful piece from our collection. The sculpture depicts a young boy dressed in typical late 19th to early 20th century working-class attire, including a flat cap. An apron tied around his waist suggests he is at work - possibly as a florist, as implied by the large scrolls cradled in his arms. These scrolls were originally aimed to be used as pen holders but can also serve to display other small items. Finely cast, the sculpture features intricate details such as fabric folds and hair texture, all enhanced by its monochrome oxidised finish. The figure stands atop an ornate Rococo style base adorned with C-scrolls, which also serve as the feet of the piece. The base is stamped ‘WMFB’, indicating both the manufacturer and the use of Britannia metal. Below this is the ‘OX’ mark, denoting that the surface has been oxidised - a process in which recessed areas are chemically darkened while raised surfaces are polished to a matte finish using pumice. An indistinct ’18’ mark is also stamped on the base. Blending stylistic elegance with technical craftsmanship, this antique pen holder...

Italian grand tour-era silver figure of Mercury after Giambologna, ca 1820. Mercury holds a herald’s staff in one hand and a torch in the other, and balances on one foot resting on a...