WALRUS CENTREPIECE, CIRCA 1915

Details

MARIUS HAMMER (1847-1927)
WALRUS CENTREPIECE, CIRCA 1915
silver, ivory, chrysoprase and wood; the large bowl with gilt interior modelled with walrus prows, variously embossed and chased with scrolling foliage, interlaced otters, fish and foliage, and openwork, the central column with removable chalice embossed with birds and foliage with eagle finial; incorprating ivory and chrysoprase cabochons, on ebonised wooden stand the ivory feet with embossed silver bands
29. 1/2 in. (74.9 cm.) high; 22 7/8 in. (58.1 cm.) wide: 206 oz. (6386 gr.)
stamped M.Hammer, 830s, M and hammer monogram to bowl; M.H. 830s M and hammer monogram to base of chalice

Special notice

Prospective purchasers are advised that several countries prohibit the importation of property containing materials from endangered species, including but not limited to coral, ivory and tortoiseshell. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should familiarize themselves with relevant customs regulations prior to bidding if they intend to import this lot into another country.

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Lot Essay

Norway ended it's political union with Sweden in 1905, iniating a revival in Viking-inspired art as an expression of nationalism. The entrelac decoration, use of materials and the 'prow' walruses evoke the heroic past and illustrate the Viking revivalist movement.

Possibly a design by Emil Høye, artistic director of Marius Hammer from 1910 to 1916. A centrepiece of similar form by him is illustrated in Norwegian Silver by Ada Polak, Dreyers Forlag, 1972, Oslo, p. 125

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