An imposing and ironic silver full-length figure of the fairy-tale character Puss in Boots, executed in 1883 by the master goldsmith Günther Grangessel, in the characteristic Hanau manner of high-quality sculptural silverwork. The cat is depicted as a court majordomo, greeting guests in a courteous half-bow. The movable head enhances the sense of animation and underscores the high level of craftsmanship.
The figure holds a staff as a symbol of authority and control, while the gesture of the other paw accentuates the elegant frock coat, lavishly adorned with coloured inserts imitating buttons and decorative elements on the cuffs, lapels, bows and tails. The contrast between the finely modelled fur and the smooth surfaces of the costume creates a striking play of materials. The ironic undertone is reinforced by details in the form of defeated rodents at the base, undermining the character’s ostentatious importance. The expression of the muzzle, with a slight astigmatic gaze and emphasised symmetry of the ears, lends the figure a grotesque, almost caricatural solemnity.
Marks: Maker’s mark of Günther Grangessel (Günther Grangessel), Hanau, active in the 1880s – a blooming rosebud, dated 1883; other marks not identified.
Dimensions: Height: 47 cm; Width: 30 cm; Depth: 15 cm.
Weight: 2137 g.
Condition: Good. Natural age-related patina. Minor traces of use consistent with age. Structural elements intact, movable head functioning correctly. No deformations or losses.
Provenance: Private European collection.
The Hanau school of silverwork emerged in the second half of the 19th century as one of the most distinctive centres of artistic silver in Europe. Local workshops combined virtuoso chasing and casting with a strong inclination towards literary, allegorical and satirical subjects, creating figural compositions rich in narrative and theatrical expression. During the Historicist period, such works formed an integral part of representative interiors, reflecting the owners’ taste for intellectual play, symbolism and refined grotesque.
Günther Grangessel (circa 1845–after 1900) ranks among the characteristic representatives of the Hanau school. Active primarily in the 1880s, he specialised in cabinet-scale genre silver sculpture distinguished by complex multi-part construction, expressive modelling and close attention to psychological characterisation. His works demonstrate a high level of technical mastery and artistic invention typical of Hanau masters, whose creations often evoked earlier historical styles while retaining the irony and theatricality characteristic of the late 19th century.
In the Hanau interpretation, Puss in Boots becomes an allegory of social ingenuity, courtly mimicry and theatrical self-assertion. The use of movable elements, contrasting surface textures and grotesque expressiveness enhanced the illusion of animation and fully corresponded to the tastes of collectors of the 1880s, who sought striking and memorable cabinet pieces. Today, works by Hanau masters, including those by Günther Grangessel, are highly prized on the international art market as rare examples of the synthesis of sculpture, silversmithing and literary allegory.
Silver with even age-related patina. Minor surface wear. Movable elements preserved and functional. Overall condition good, with no evidence of restoration.
The condition report is provided for informational purposes only.
It is not comprehensive and may not reflect all defects, restorations, alterations, or adaptations, as Antiqon does not perform professional conservation-level assessments. The information is based on a qualified, yet subjective, evaluation by our specialists.Before purchasing, we recommend consultation with an independent expert.Please also consult our Terms and conditions and Glossary A-Z, which contain important information on lot characteristics and sale conditions.
