A charming and finely modelled Victorian stickpin in 18ct gold, c.1880, formed as a three-dimensional dachshund with engraved detail to the coat and features. Animal stickpins were enormously fashionable in the Victorian and Edwardian periods, and the dachshund was a particularly resonant subject — the breed was closely associated with Germany and with the German-born members of the British royal family, including Prince Albert, whose influence on Victorian taste was considerable. The dachshund's distinctive elongated form lends itself naturally to the stickpin format, and the engraving here captures the breed's character with warmth and precision. At 2.2 × 1.1cm and 4.7g it is a stickpin of real substance. Tests as 18ct gold. Pin length 6cm.

The Details

• Circa: 1880
• Weight: 4.7g
• Head dimensions: 2.2 × 1.1cm
• Pin length: 6cm
• Hallmarks: Tests as 18ct gold