This is a stunning sterling silver mounted horse hoof taxidermy inkwell
dating to the 19th century. Typical of the period, wealthy patrons would
have their favorite horse’s hoof mounted in this fashion as a perpetual
desk accessory. Fully hallmarked, this was produced by William Mammott
& Son, Sheffield England.
The sterling silver top is thick
and large, very high quality with hand chased decorative patterns to
imitate horse hair. The lid is heavy with a full body figure of a horse
on top. This figure is solid metal, there are no hallmarks on the body
of the figure but the lid is hallmarked in addition the base silver
backside. A glass inkwell inset is included. Measures Overall height:-
130 millimetres / 5.12 inches. Hoof width:- 98 mms. / 3.86 ins. Total
weight:- 520 grams / 16.7 ounces.
There is some cracking to the
underside of the hoof portion which is normal due to age. The hoof
still has holes in it, from where the shoe nails were hammered
through.Please review photos for further assessment.
A fascinating and beautiful presentation item that is ready to display or use. Check out our other antique listings.