Very beautiful Viennese enamel ship

In the form of a single-masted sailing ship on wheels, the so-called "Nef." Silver, gilded, and partially enameled. The ship’s curved hull is shaped like a vessel with faithfully depicted mast, sails, rigging, and a roof-like structure. Several decorative figures are presented on the fore and aft decks, as well as in the mast basket. The hull, roof, pennant, and sails are adorned with finely painted, polychrome enamel scenes from mythology. The railings are designed in the Rococo style. Signed, master’s mark of Ludwig Politzer, purveyor to the royal court LKG (active since 1876). Weight approximately 515 g. Height 18.5 cm. 22.5 cm x 6.5 cm. Ludwig Politzer was one of the most important silversmiths and jewelers of the second half of the 19th century in Vienna. He specialized in the production of enamel artworks, silver pieces, and similar "Nefs" based on Renaissance models. His works were exhibited in Paris in 1878 and 1900 at the International Exhibitions. See Neuwirth, Vienna, Lexicon, vol. II, p. 110 and following. Provenance: Royal House of Hanover, Auction "The Royal House of Hanover/Das Königshaus von Hannover," Sotheby’s, Marienburg Castle, October 5–15, 2005, Additional lot: Lot 2573; thereafter in a private collection in Brandenburg. A very exquisite and decorative Austrian nef of gilded silver with enamel by Ludwig Politzer (active since 1876). Assay and maker’s marks. Austria, Vienna, circa 1880.