Sandbanks Antiques has dated this Victorian Silver Novelty Pencil to the 19th Century.
A Fine Colonial "Mordanalia" Attribute | c. 1880
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.
Design: Expertly modelled with a textured hide, curling tail, and tusks.
Action: The tail acts as the terminal; when pulled, the pencil extends through the snout with smooth telescopic action.
Markings: Clearly stamped on the inner barrel with the Hamilton & Co. Calcutta name and the signature Crown mark.
Versatility: Includes the original suspension ring, ready to be worn as a pendant or added to a silver watch fob.
Specifications:
Weight: 12.30g
Size: 3.4 cm (Closed) / 6.2 cm (Extended)
Condition: Excellent antique condition with crisp details and a working mechanism.
Collector'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.
Sandbanks Antiques has dated this Victorian Silver Novelty Pencil to the 19th Century.
Specialising in antique silver, gold boxes, gold coins and objects de vertu. Rare fine-quality imperial chinese porcelain, jades, cloisonné
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Sandbanks Antiques Profile Page
Rare Victorian Silver "Boar" Novelty Pencil – Hamilton & Co. Calcutta
