Silver

RARE VICTORIAN SILVER "BOAR" NOVELTY PENCIL -- ...

A rare and well-preserved example of 19TH CENTURY from Calcutta, c. 1880, noted for its craftsmanship, material quality, and historical relevance.

A Fine Colonial ''Mordanalia'' Attribute | c. 1880 Colonial Luxury Meets Victorian Whimsy\n\nThis is a superb example of a Victorian novelty propelling pencil, designed as a highly detailed wild boar. While signed by the prestigious Hamilton & Co. of Calcutta---the ''Garrard of the East''---the design, weight, and intricate ''bristled'' chasing identify this as being almost certainly manufactured by Sampson Mordan & Co. of London. It was common practice for Hamilton & Co. to commission Mordan, the world's premier pencil maker, to produce these figural pieces for their elite clientele in the British Raj.\n\nDesign: Expertly modelled with a textured hide, curling tail, and tusks.\nAction: The tail acts as the terminal; when pulled, the pencil extends through the snout with smooth telescopic action.\nMarkings: Clearly stamped on the inner barrel with the Hamilton & Co. Calcutta name and the signature Crown mark.\nVersatility: Includes the original suspension ring, ready to be worn as a pendant or added to a silver watch fob.\n\nSpecifications:\nWeight: 12.30g\nSize: 3.4 cm (Closed) / 6.2 cm (Extended)\nCondition: Excellent antique condition with crisp details and a working mechanism.\n\nCollector''s Note: Whether you collect Indian Colonial Silver or Sampson Mordan novelties, this ''cross-over'' piece is a rare find. It represents the height of 19th-century craftsmanship and the luxury of the British Empire''s most famous silversmith.

— Details

Reference

SA1207814

Origin

Calcutta, c. 1880

Period

19TH CENTURY

Dimensions

W 3.4cm

Weight

12.3 g

Rarity

Rare

Condition

Excellent — see description