Sterling Silver Donkey Figurine, Israel Segalov Import, London 1924

This sterling silver donkey figurine was imported into England by Israel Segalov and assayed in London in 1924. Measuring 2.75 inches tall and 3 inches long, and weighing 57.3 grams, the donkey is skillfully modeled with textured fur, bridle, and saddle. The underside carries full English hallmarks: the maker’s mark I·S for Israel Segalov, the lion passant for sterling, the leopard’s head for London, and the date letter “i” for 1924.

Segalov frequently imported figural novelties from Hanau, Germany particularly from Neresheimer & Söhne, which were then assayed in London for sale on the English market. Such animal-form silver figures were popular desk or cabinet ornaments and remain highly collectible today.

Condition: Good antique condition with light wear, some verdigris in crevices, and traces of age patina.

• Object: Sterling silver donkey figurine

• Maker’s / Sponsor’s Mark: I·S for Israel Segalov, London importer

• Origin: Almost certainly Hanau, Germany (many such animal-form novelties were made by Neresheimer & Söhne, then imported by Segalov)

• Assay Office: London (Leopard’s head)

• Standard: Lion passant, .925 sterling

• Date Letter: “i” for 1924

• Size & Weight: 2.75 in. tall × 3 in. long; 57.3 g

• Function: Decorative silver figural ornament (not a box, vesta, or money bank)