313: RARE MARIUS HAMMER VIKING WARRIOR PLIQUE A JOUR SILVER

The large Norwegian silver vessel in the form of a Dragenstil long boat is built by hand in elaborate openwork motifs that, unlike any other example on record, include rows of Viking warrior masks, figural battle axes, shields in high relief with protruding bosses, a band of ocean wave motif, entwined serpents along the keel, and dragon heads among various decorative borders - all sculpted from silver stock and filled with jewel-tone glass enamels creating the look of brilliant stained glass. The technique of plique a jour - French for 'letting in daylight' - creates the intense colors on this larger-than-usual example with elaborate plique a jour stand, rather than a small solid oval pedestal base as is typically the case. The work bears a tag stamped with the maker's hallmark and the silver standard mark of 930s, a higher silver content than that of Sterling.
Measures 8.5 x 12.5 x 5 inches.
Very good condition. There are no chips, cracks, repairs, losses, or areas of heavy wear. Several cells show crazing of the enamel when back lit.
Provenance: The collection of Josephine Bird Hall (1888 - 1948) by descent to her son, the present owner. Josephine's father was a founder of Kansas City's Emery, Bird, Thayer Department Store.
$4,000 - $6,000