Gents,
Recently found this neat little bauble that most will immediately recognize as the open-style, imperial naval dirk pommel. It's actually known as the 1871 Staatskrone, or state crown, which came into being shortly after the unification of the German states under Wilhelm I and Bismarck.
I'm fairly certain this miniature crown was produced by the firm of KPM, but from what date I can't say for certain as I've never seen or heard of another..? ... anyone?
The small cross/crucifix has been lost but I think it's a very worthwhile restoration project. I can easily supply the porcelain people with drawings and photographs of the various, original finial styles.
As a rule of thumb I try to stay away from buying damaged examples but I thought this one was well worth a little extra effort. The detail to this little-critter (about 2.25 x 2.5 inches) is nicely rendered and accurate.
Good collecting to all !
Bill
