Antique 19th Century Austrian Cold-Painted Spelter Bulldog Table Lighter, 1890s

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19th Century Austrian Cold-Painted Spelter Bulldog Table Lighter Material: Cold-painted spelter, metal A wonderfully characterful late 19th-century Austrian table or … Read more 19th Century Austrian Cold-Painted Spelter Bulldog Table Lighter Material: Cold-painted spelter, metal A wonderfully characterful late 19th-century Austrian table or cigar lighter modelled as a seated bulldog and executed in finely detailed cold-painted spelter. The bulldog is particularly well modelled, with expressive facial features and a substantial sculptural presence. It retains its original-style chain collar around the neck, which leads towards the lighter mechanism positioned at the top. The small chamber was designed to hold fuel, while the removable striker could be withdrawn and struck against the textured channel running along the bulldog’s hind leg. This ingenious integration of the lighter mechanism into the sculptural form is characteristic of the novelty smoking accessories produced in Austria during the period. The surviving painted decoration gives the figure considerable character, while the combination of an animal sculpture and functional smoking accessory makes it an appealing example of late 19th-century novelty metalwork. Presented in excellent antique condition, with minor surface wear and patination consistent with age. Dimensions: Height: 14.6 cm Weight: Approximately 1.5 kg Date of Manufacture: circa 1890–1900 Period: Late 19th Century Style: Austrian / Figural Country of Origin: Austria See less