An unusual silver and enamel letter opener

SKU: A1500

Price range:  £650

For sale is this stunning sterling silver letter opener with enamel handle.

It has sadly defeated my best efforts to identify its maker or even country of origin, but I believe it to be German or one of Austro-Hungarian countries. The style is very much like that of the Wiener Werkstatte and Seccession more broadly, most notably seen in the ceramics of the period.

The paper knife is marked with monogramme FJ, and with a sterling mark that could also indicate this is an American or Australian piece. What is not in doubt is that it is exceptional quality.

Maker: FJ, unknown

Designer: Unknown

Date: c 1910

Marks: FJ monogram, “Sterling”

Material: Sterling silver, enamel

Condition: Excellent

Size:  19.5 cm long

Weight : 62 grams,  2.2 oz

Additional information

Period

Art nouveau, Arts and crafts