Victorian Silver Plate and Glass Hunter's Themed Mantel Clock Garniture
Decorative Object (Mantel Clock Garniture) · Attributed to Continental European (possibly German or Austro-Hungarian) or British manufacturers such as Elkington & Co. or WMF. These makers were renowned for high-quality electroplated silver (EPNS) decorative items in the late 19th century.
Pattern: Hunting/Sporting Collection; featuring stag and huntsman motifs. These were typically custom one-off designs or limited series patterns produced for hunting lodges or gentlemen's studies.
Type
Decorative Object (Mantel Clock Garniture)
Maker
Attributed to Continental European (possibly German or Austro-Hungarian) or British manufacturers such as Elkington & Co. or WMF. These makers were renowned for high-quality electroplated silver (EPNS) decorative items in the late 19th century.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Silver Plate over copper/spelter. The case incorporates a glass vitrine for the huntsman figure and a brass/gilt clock dial. It is not solid sterling silver.
Dimensions
Estimated height: 16-18 inches; width: 14 inches. Approximate weight: 4-6 kg including the clock mechanism. These are substantial pieces designed for heavy fireplace mantels.
Description
An imposing Victorian-era silver-plated mantel clock featuring a narrative hunting scene. The clock face is flanked by two grand cast stags standing on rocky terrain, while a central clear glass compartment houses a lone huntsman with his hound. The piece is grounded by a stepped base with classical repetitive foliage motifs.
Key Features
The narrative composition of the 'Stag and Hunter,' the integrated glass vitrine, and the elaborate floral swags above the clock face signify its high-Victorian decorative intent.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS) or Silver Plate over copper/spelter. The case incorporates a glass vitrine for the huntsman figure and a brass/gilt clock dial. It is not solid sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
Oxidized silver finish with heavy tarnish (patina). Decorative techniques include casting (the stags), repoussé-style floral swags on the clock face, and chased leaf-and-dart borders on the tiered base. Style period is Late Victorian/Eclectic with Neoclassical elements.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expect small 'EPNS' (Electro-Plated Nickel Silver) stamps or maker's marks like a bird (WMF), crown, or lion. Marks are likely located on the rear of the clock case or under the base. No visible sterling lion passant or date letters are apparent in the photo.
Construction Details
Cast components (stags and hunter) assembled via pins and soldering. The main body is likely die-struck or cast white metal with a silver electroplate finish. The glass enclosure is joined with metal framing.
Functional Features
Mechanical Roman numeral clock with key-wind movement. The central glass vitrine serves as a display for the huntsman and dog figurine, protecting the finer details from dust.
Handle & Grip Details
None (non-portable decorative item). The clock features a hinged rear door for access to the movement and a winding arbor on the dial face.
Craftsmanship Details
Good quality industrial casting. The stags show decent anatomical detail, though the repetitiveness of the base pattern confirms semi-automated machine production typical of the late 19th century.
Authentication Indicators
The grey-black color of the oxidation is classic for silver plate on nickel. The casting lines visible on the stag legs and the lack of prominent sterling hallmarks suggest a high-quality electroplated decorative piece.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Birmingham, England (the center of silver plating) or Hanau, Germany. The casting quality suggests a medium-to-high volume industrial workshop specialized in hollowware.
Era & Period
Late Victorian/Edwardian (circa 1880-1910). This period saw a fascination with 'The Hunt' as a symbol of aristocratic leisure and heritage.
Age Estimate
Circa 1890-1905. The combination of neoclassical swags with the Romantic realism of the stags is characteristic of the turn of the century.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Gentry' lifestyle of the late 19th century, where hunting was the primary social activity of the upper classes. Such clocks were centerpiece items for the 'Smoking Room' or 'Library.'
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Heavy oxidation/tarnish is present across all silver surfaces. There is visible wear to the plating (rubbing through to base metal) on the high points of the stags. The clock dial shows aging; the glass appears intact.
Value Estimate
$400 - $900 USD. Value is driven by the working condition of the clock and the intactness of the stag antlers, which are prone to breakage.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid chemical 'dips' which can damage the clock movement. Clean with a soft cloth and a high-quality silver cream like Wright's. Keep away from high humidity to prevent internal rust of the clock springs.
Similar Pieces
WMF (Wurttembergische Metallwarenfabrik) antler clocks; Elkington 'The Hunt' garnitures. Similar items in solid sterling would be exceptionally rare and significantly more valuable.
Interesting Facts
Hunting-themed silver was often used as prizes for marksman competitions or gifted as retirement presents for gameskeepers of large estates.