MAPPIN & WEBB Large Shire Horse Society Sterling Silver Pendant – 1908

Description

ON SALE – No Returns or Refunds

I couldn’t resist this utterly bonkers but beautifully made medallion pendant. Made by the iconic jewellers to the crown, Mappin and Webb it encapsulates all the beautiful craftsmanship you’d expect from an Edwardian piece by this maker. Mappin and Webb were founded in 1775 and held royal warrants since 1897; they’re one of the most famous British silversmiths and are (thankfully) still going strong today producing luxury silver and jewellery.

One side features two majestic Shire horses with ‘Shire Horse Society’ overhead. Shire horses are a beautiful breed of British horses, famed for their height and ability to pull heavy loads. They were central to farming during the 18th and 19th centuries and were iconic in pastoral art and literature of the time but, with industrialization of agriculture, they’re now sadly an ‘at risk’ breed.

The other side is a finely detailed rendition of a medieval lady on (presumably Shire!) horseback; bedecked in all the finery of a courtly lady with feathers, braid, and even a crown and sceptre.

This is an exquisitely made and very heavy medallion; it was likely made as a competition prize but these pieces are increasingly rare – having been melted down over the years. They’re definitely an indulgence of a bygone era; can you imagine a Shire horse prize looking like this nowadays – the cost to make such a beautiful piece would be extortionate!

Hopefully some of you have an eye for eclectic quality pieces too! I think this looks spectacular worn on a chain either on its own or layered with other pieces. Definitely a unique statement piece to add to your antique jewellery collection.

ERA: Edwardian – hallmark for 1908

MAKER: Mappin and Webb, England

MATERIAL: Sterling silver (full hallmark)

SIZE: 1.75″ diameter

WEIGHT: 50grams – I told you it was substantial!

CONDITION: Excellent antique condition. Minimal signs of wear. Embossed relief design is crisp on both sides. Clear hallmarks. Nice large secure jump ring.

SHIPPING: Free inside the U.S. and to the UK – see customer care section for terms and conditions of shipping.

TAGS: MAPPIN & WEBB Large Shire Horse Society Sterling Silver Pendant – 1908