RECENT ACQUISITIONS - 2nd July
Antique early 20th Century German solid silver casket, decorated with scenes known as 'The Triumph of Napoleon'. This rectangular sarcophagus-shaped piece features intricate scenes on its panels: the front depicts Napoleon receiving the key to the city of Vienna, while the rear showcases Napoleon amidst courtiers. Classical figures, trophies, and Napoleon's arms adorn the two side panels, with Greek key bands decorating the borders. The casket stands on four eagle supports, with a hinged cover topped by a figure of Napoleon on horseback. Its interior is gilt, housing an internal lock (though the key is missing). The casket is inspired by Anne-Louis Girodet de Roussy-Trioson's 1808 painting titled "Napoleon Bonaparte receiving the keys of Vienna at the Schloss Schönbrunn", the front panel scene commemorates Napoleon's swift victory over the Austrian army in the Ulm Campaign (25 September to 20 October 1805) and subsequent capture of Vienna on 13 November 1805. Hallmarked German silver (800+ standard), Hanau, Maker's mark for Georg Roth (1891 - 1919).
Reference Number: A10264