Silver Figure Group of an Artillery Officer and His Adjutant

Maker: J.C. Klinkosch
Date: Vienna, circa 1880
Material: 800 silver, hallmarked with Diana’s head (1872–1922), the full-name master’s mark “J.C. KLINKOSCH,” and the double-headed eagle for imperial court suppliers
Dimensions: L 40 x W 22 x H 37 cm
Inscription: Engraved calligraphically on the side of the base: “Kartätschen!”

Description: A finely detailed figure group crafted in silver using the hollow casting method. It depicts an artillery officer in Habsburg uniform from the Napoleonic Wars, mounted on horseback. The officer is shown issuing an order to his adjutant, who stands beside him, to load the cannons with “canister shot”, a type of shrapnel ammunition.

The purpose and specific inspiration behind this circa 1880 depiction of a scene from around 1810 remain unclear. It is presumed to have been created as a personal memento, possibly for a former artillery officer. This model is otherwise unknown and may have been a special commission.