Antique & Vintage Silver Animals
Browse our impressive collection of antique and vintage sterling silver animal ornaments and figurines for sale at AC Silver
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Discover a stunning collection of antique silver animal ornaments and vessels. From charming Victorian silver animal ornaments to rare Edwardian and Art Deco examples.
Our vintage and antique silver animals include a wide range of subjects, from dogs, exotic birds, elephants and farmyard favourites. Whether you're drawn to the fine detailing of a 19th-century silver fox or the whimsy of a novelty mouse-shaped pepperette, these silver animal figures add character and charm to any collection.
Highly sought after by collectors, antique silver animals were often created as table ornaments, snuff boxes, scent bottles, or inkwells. Hallmarked by some of the most respected silversmiths in British history, a testament to craftsmanship as they are delightful decorative pieces.
All of the silver animal ornaments at AC Silver come with free and insured worldwide shipping and a 14 day return policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Antique silver animal ornaments are sculptures crafted from silver (often sterling silver), depicting animals such as dogs, foxes, birds, hares, and other creatures. Popular during the 19th and early 20th centuries, especially in the Victorian and Edwardian periods, these whimsical and finely detailed pieces served both decorative and functional purposes.
The Victorian era (1837–1901) saw the rise of silver animal ornaments, which remained stylish during the Edwardian era (1901–1910) and into the early 20th century. This was a time of exceptional silver craftsmanship, with novelty silver items and naturalistic forms being greatly appreciated in the homes of the upper and middle classes.
In Britain during the 18th and 19th centuries, sugar was considered a luxury and was heavily taxed. To secretly store sugar and evade duties on more conspicuous containers, silversmiths ingeniously crafted sugar boxes and sugar casters shaped like animals or whimsical figures. These cleverly disguised vessels offered both aesthetic appeal and a practical means of avoiding scrutiny, merging functionality with playful artistry.
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