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European silver

PUSS IN BOOTS. SILVER FIGURE WITH MOVABLE HEAD, GÜNTHER GRANGESSEL GERMANY, HANAU, 1883
PUSS IN BOOTS. SILVER FIGURE WITH MOVABLE HEAD, GÜNTHER GRANGESSEL GERMANY, HANAU, 1883
An imposing and ironic silver full-length figure of the fairy-tale character Puss in Boots, executed in 1883 by the master goldsmith Günther Grangessel, in the characteristic Hanau manner of high-quality sculptural silverwork. The cat is depicted as a court majordomo, greeting guests in a courteous half-bow. The movable head enhances the sense of animation and underscores the high level of craftsmanship.The figure holds a staff as a symbol of authority and control, while the gesture of the other paw accentuates the elegant frock coat, lavishly adorned with coloured inserts imitating buttons and decorative elements on the cuffs, lapels, bows and tails. The contrast between the finely modelled fur and the smooth surfaces of the costume creates a striking play of materials. The ironic undertone is reinforced by details in the form of defeated rodents at the base, undermining the character’s ostentatious importance. The expression of the muzzle, with a slight astigmatic gaze and emphasised symmetry of the ears, lends the figure a grotesque, almost caricatural solemnity.Marks: Maker’s mark of Günther Grangessel (Günther Grangessel), Hanau, active in the 1880s – a blooming rosebud, dated 1883; other marks not identified.Dimensions: Height: 47 cm; Width: 30 cm; Depth: 15 cm.Weight: 2137 g.Condition: Good. Natural age-related patina. Minor traces of use consistent with age. Structural elements intact, movable head functioning correctly. No deformations or losses.Provenance: Private European collection.
Begins 03.05.2026
SILVER CHAMPAGNE COOLER WITH DRAGON HANDLES. EUROPE, LATE 19TH - EARLY 20TH CENTURY
SILVER CHAMPAGNE COOLER WITH DRAGON HANDLES. EUROPE, LATE 19TH - EARLY 20TH CENTURY
A luxurious silver champagne cooler, executed in finely chased and stamped decoration, represents an expressive example of ceremonial tableware of the Historicism period, incorporating elements of Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque. The oval body with a subtle conical taper is articulated by vertical fluting, emphasizing the architectural clarity and elegance of the silhouette.The central cartouches are adorned with elaborate foliate ornament composed of acanthus scrolls and shell motifs. Beneath the rim runs a relief frieze with a Rocaille pattern. Particularly striking are the massive cast handles in the form of fantastical dragons with outstretched wings, curved necks, and finely modeled heads. The sculptural plasticity of the handles contrasts with the smooth polished surfaces of the body, creating a dynamic play of light across the silver.The base is profiled and enriched with engraved ornament, providing both visual balance and structural stability. The object was intended for cooling champagne bottles in ice and served as an essential element of formal table settings among the upper classes and aristocratic receptions.Marks: Require clarification following visual inspection and expert examination.Dimensions: Height 21.5 cm.Weight: 1380 g.Condition: Good. Natural silver patina, minor surface wear consistent with use. No deformations or losses of form observed.Provenance: Private European collection.
Begins 03.05.2026
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