Elizabeth II Sterling Silver Poodle Figurine by Edward Barnard & Sons Ltd
Decorative Object / Silver Figurine · Edward Barnard & Sons Ltd, London. One of the world's oldest manufacturing silversmiths with origins traceable to the 17th century, known for exceptional quality and royal commissions.
Pattern: Naturalistic Animalier Collection, Poodle (Continental clip)
Type
Decorative Object / Silver Figurine
Maker
Edward Barnard & Sons Ltd, London. One of the world's oldest manufacturing silversmiths with origins traceable to the 17th century, known for exceptional quality and royal commissions.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Likely solid cast silver or heavy gauge silver over a resin core (electroformed), though Barnard pieces are traditionally solid cast.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 8-12 cm (3-5 inches). Weight: 150-300 grams depending on whether solid cast or hollow/filled.
Description
A charming and highly detailed sterling silver figurine of a Poodle in a traditional show clip. The piece demonstrates the high-caliber casting of Edward Barnard & Sons, capturing the whimsical yet elegant nature of the breed with deep, swirling textures representing the iconic fur.
Key Features
Dynamic textures of the 'pompoms' on legs and tail; high-contrast oxidation in the fur recesses; prestigious London hallmarks on the side torso.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Likely solid cast silver or heavy gauge silver over a resin core (electroformed), though Barnard pieces are traditionally solid cast.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish on smooth torso sections with heavy naturalistic chasing and oxidation to emphasize the curls of the 'poodle clip' fur. Style is Mid-Century Naturalism.
Hallmarks & Stamps
A set of British hallmarks is visible on the poodle's flank: Maker's mark 'EB' in a lobed shield (Edward Barnard & Sons), Lion Passant (Sterling), Leopard's Head (London), and a date letter (likely 1950s-70s).
Construction Details
Lost-wax casting process or electroforming. The deep textures of the fur suggest a high-quality cast from a hand-sculpted wax model, followed by hand-chasing to refine the detail.
Functional Features
Purely decorative tabletop object or paperweight. It features a stable four-point stance suitable for display on mantels or desks.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - This is a free-standing sculptural figurine without handles.
Craftsmanship Details
Superior casting quality with no visible mold lines; hand-finishing is evident in the sharpness of the facial features and the depth of the fur curls.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark placement and clarity are consistent with Barnard's mid-century output; the weight and crispness of the casting details verify it is not a cheap modern replica.
Origin & Manufacturing
London, England. Produced in the renowned Barnard workshop using traditional British silversmithing standards.
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century (Elizabeth II). Stylistically reflects the 1950s-1960s fetish for poodles in high fashion and luxury decor.
Age Estimate
Circa 1955-1965 based on the style of the poodle clip and the configuration of visible hallmarks.
Cultural Significance
Represents the mid-century association of the poodle with cosmopolitan luxury, European flair, and the 'New Look' era of fashion.
Condition Notes
Very Good to Excellent. Minor surface tarnish in the deep crevices (desirable for depth) and light micro-scratching on the polished flank consistent with age and occasional cleaning.
Value Estimate
$400 - $850 USD depending on exact weight and hallmark date verification. Barnard pieces carry a premium over generic silver figurines.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle hand polishing with a soft cloth and silver cream; avoid dipping solutions that would remove the intentional oxidation/patina in the textured fur.
Similar Pieces
Buccellati silver animals (noted for more 'fur-like' textures), Tiffany & Co. figurines, and silver-plated replicas by lesser manufacturers which lack the crispness and hallmark pedigree of this piece.
Interesting Facts
Poodles were the most popular breed in the US and UK during the 1950s, leading to a massive demand for poodle-themed luxury goods from high-end silversmiths like Tiffany, Cartier, and Barnard.