Antique Rampant Lion Figural Silverplate Napkin Ring Ornate Openwork Victorian

Description

RARE ANTIQUE FIGURAL RAMPANT LION
SILVERPLATE NAPKIN RING
Available for purchase is a collectible antique silverplate figural napkin ring.  This uncommon napkin ring depicts a rampant lion attached to an ornate openwork ring with an applied monogram medallion on top.  The lion is standing with his front paws attached to the ring, his tail curled to meet his back, and his back foot firmly planted to give the ring wonderful balance.  The lion is beautifully detailed with a ferocious facial expression, flowing mane, visible ribs, and molded toes.  The openwork is similarly detailed with vines, flowers, leaves, and birds.  The monogram medallion on top has script initials that I believe read "BHW".
There are no manufacturer marks on this piece but it's definitely an antique.  It is pictured on page 58 in the book "
Figural Napkin Rings
" by Gottschalk and Whitson.  In the book, they mention that lion figurals were produced in low numbers and gave this napkin ring a 1996 book value of 0-0.  I purchased this napkin ring at a recent estate sale.
Condition of this figural napkin ring is EXCELLENT.  I see some very light wear to the silverplate on a few places of the openwork.  The ring has an indentation under the lion's left paw (see photo).  Overall, this Victorian era napkin ring looks fantastic and displays beautifully.  It would make a fine addition to any collection.  Please take a close look at the photos I've provided.  I'm confident you'll be very pleased with this purchase!
If you collect 19th-century figural napkin rings, don't miss your opportunity to purchase this offering.  As I mentioned earlier, lion napkin rings are hard to find.  My Buy It Now price of 9 is a bargain for this scarce piece.  So buy it now before someone else beats you to the deal!
While you're here, please check out my other auction listings by clicking on the link below.  Whenever possible, I'll be happy to reduce shipping for combined purchases.
See my other listings
for more great items!
Closeup of Lion
Closeup of Pierced Design
Side View
Rear View
Opposite Side View
Top View
Pushed In Slightly Under Foot
Payment is due immediately after purchase.  E-bay policy limits sellers to only accepting electronic methods of payment (i.e. PayPal).  If you have any questions regarding this policy, please let me know.  Virginia residents will need to add 5.3% state sales tax to the final purchase price.  E-bay has also started charging sales tax in several other states recently, something beyond my control.
For international purchases, I accept Paypal only.  The buyer is responsible for all customs fees.  The declared value listed on the customs form will be the final selling price of the item.  I will not list the item as a "gift" to avoid customs charges.
If you're the lucky buyer of this figural lion napkin ring, it will come to you VERY carefully packaged via Parcel Select or Priority Mail (your choice).  Shipping will be actual charges from zip code 22980 (packaged weight under 1 pound).  Use the eBay shipping calculator to determine exact mailing cost to your location.  International bidders will need to e-mail me for a shipping quote.
E-bay no longer allows sellers to offer buyers the option of purchasing shipping insurance.  I will insure this item at my own expense.
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