Description

Vintage English Cat Charm | EPNS Silverplate

This lovely three-dimensional charm would once have formed part of a baby’s rattle or teething set, given as a traditional christening gift. The detailed pattern of this long-haired cat dates back to the Victorian era and was emulated right through to the mid-twentieth century, sometimes in solid silver and sometimes (as in this example) in silverplate. It would originally have been attached to either an ivory teething ring or to the branch of a rattle; complete examples of such rattles typically have a number of other charms hanging from them, a wooden or mother of pearl handle, and are tipped with a coral teether or a whistle.

The charm is about five centimetres tall and is hollow; within is a tiny metal bell to rattle when shaken and there are two small sound holes in the base. There is a loop on the cat’s head which would once have attached to another metal ring and then to the teether or rattle handle.

This is a great display piece in its own right, but the loop at the top of the head means that it could be used in other inventive ways – we think it would make an exceptional and unique Christmas tree decoration, for example.

Presented in a ribboned box, ready to make a superb gift.

Approximate Dimensions: 5.1cm x 2.9cm x 1.3cm (at the longest/widest point)

Condition Report: In good vintage condition. The surface has been professionally cleaned and polished with a sympathetic touch to retain the patina.

Please be sure to view all of the photographs to fully appraise the condition. If you would like any further information on this piece please send us an email, quoting the name of the item in your message.

Material: EPNS Silverplate

Weight: 10.95g

Marks: ‘EPNS’ (for ‘Electro Plated Nickel Silver’) near base