Georgian Equestrian Horse Head Armorial Desk Seal c.1770–1800

Details

Description

Georgian Equestrian Horse Head Armorial Desk Seal c.1770–1800

A distinctive late-Georgian desk seal combining equestrian sculpture with historic heraldic function.

… Read more Georgian Equestrian Horse Head Armorial Desk Seal c.1770–1800

A distinctive late-Georgian desk seal combining equestrian sculpture with historic heraldic function.

Dating to the **late 18th century, circa 1770–1800**, the horse's head is finely modelled with alert ears, expressive open mouth, articulated bridle and bit and an incised mane.

The copper-alloy, probably brass, surface has acquired a rich golden-brown patina with darker recessed details.

The circular underside contains an engraved intaglio matrix featuring paired shield-shaped heraldic cartouches surrounded by elaborate foliate ornament.

Traditionally associated with the Abercromby family of Tullibody, Scotland.

A historic attribution to Lieutenant-General Sir Ralph Abercromby KB (1734–1801) survives by repute but has not been conclusively established through the heraldic matrix or documentary provenance.

Date

Late 18th century, circa 1770–1800, provisional.

Material

Copper alloy, probably brass.

Dimensions

7 cm high × 5.5 cm long × 2.6 cm wide.

Approximately 180 grams.

Provenance

Private Scottish estate by repute.

Subsequently with a Scottish antiques dealer.

Thereafter Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD®.



Certificate of Sale & Dealer Attribution

The artwork will be supplied with a Certificate of Sale & Dealer Attribution issued by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD®, recording the artwork’s catalogue details, attribution, provenance as stated, and details of the sale. This document accompanies the work as part of its ongoing ownership and provenance record.

Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD®

Specialising in carefully curated British and European fine art, antiques and historic works of art.

Every artwork is professionally researched and catalogued using comparative scholarship, published reference material and more than two decades of experience within the international fine art market. We are committed to offering collectors works of artistic and historical merit accompanied by transparent provenance research, detailed catalogue descriptions and professional, client-focused service.

Additional photographs and further information are available upon request. See less