Large antique silvered metal nef in the form of a galleon

In the form of a galleon, this exceptional piece of metalwork is a nef, or model ship: a grand type of table ornament popular in Northern Europe in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century.

Large, delicate, and superbly detailed, all the intricacies of a triple-masted galleon are rendered with great fidelity. From the rigging, figures, and sails, which are rigged both lateen fore-and-aft, and square on the main three masts, to the riveting and construction of the main hull - the quality of the detailing demonstrates the skill of the makers. The figures populating the ship have a minimalist abstract quality to them, suggesting stylistic influences from early twentieth century movements.

'Nefs' were a type of grand table ornament that proved immensely popular in German in the late nineteenth century. This work, adorned with subtle decoration to the bow, makes for an exquisite decorative object, and a fine example of nautical themed antiques: a delightful piece in the hands of the right collector.