Exceptional Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Dolphin Sculpture Ram Match Striker Holder

Details

Description

This extraordinary Victorian-era sculptural display, dating to the circa 1880s, is a masterwork of imagination and craftsmanship, transforming a natural … Read more This extraordinary Victorian-era sculptural display, dating to the circa 1880s, is a masterwork of imagination and craftsmanship, transforming a natural ram’s horn into a fantastical dolphin-form objet d’art. The horn has been expertly mounted and embellished with finely modeled sterling silver fins, tail, and expressive face, seamlessly marrying organic form with refined silverwork. The result is a striking maritime-inspired sculpture that is both whimsical and luxurious, emblematic of the late 19th century fascination with natural history, myth, and virtuoso metalwork.

At the center of the composition is a circular sterling silver tray with gallery-style rails, designed to securely hold a crystal and sterling silver match holder/striker. This functional element elevates the piece beyond sculpture alone, reflecting the Victorian taste for beautifully appointed desk and smoking accessories that blended utility with artistic drama. The crystal insert catches the light elegantly, contrasting with the warm, natural tones of the horn and the cool brilliance of the silver.

The silver components are clearly marked “Sterling” and “Cowell and Hubbard Co.”—the latter identifying the esteemed Cleveland, Ohio luxury jeweler and high-end goods retailer, rather than the actual maker. Cowell & Hubbard was known for commissioning and retailing objects of exceptional quality, often sourced from the finest European workshops. Based on the sophistication of design, sculptural modeling, and overall execution, this piece was very likely made in Europe, where such technically ambitious and imaginative silver-mounted natural objects were produced for elite international clientele.

Overall measures 10 inches high, 9.75 inches wide and 7.5 inches deep. Total weight is just under 3 pounds. The match striker measures 3.5 inches high, 3 inches wide and 3 inches deep. Good antique condition, light signs of handling. A few mico chips that require very close inspection on the matche striker. Please review the photos for further condition assessment.

Craftsmanship throughout is of the highest caliber, with meticulous attention to detail in both the silver chasing and the sensitive integration of metal with horn. The form is dynamic and sculptural from every angle, making it a commanding display piece for a library, study, or cabinet of curiosities.

A totally unique and exceedingly rare survivor, this Victorian dolphin-form match striker is not only a conversation piece but a museum-worthy example of 19th-century luxury design. See less