An Austrian parcel-gilt model of a peacock, maker's mark ZbK, Brody, 1787-1806

realistically chased, the feathers alternately gilt, detachable head and  chain, oval base with 1806-1809/10 Austro-Hungarian control marks

Associated literature: For information on the hallmark see: Michael Gradowski, Znaki Na Srebrze, Warsaw, 1994, pp213-216

Loss to end of tail feathers and split on one side of tail. Lead repair to small section at front of wing. One link of the chain broken. Clear marks, overall very nice colour and pretty good condition. Well modelled.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The town of Brody, now in  western Ukraine,  is from an area of Eastern Europe known as Galicia. In the 17th and 18th century it was the property of two great Polish families the Koniecpolski and the Potocki. In 1772 Galicia became the most northern province of the Austrian empire, with a widerly diverse population,  including an important Jewish community centred in Brody.  In 1787 Galicia was split into 18 hallmarking districts which followed the Vienna  system and adopted a similar hallmark where each of the 18 centres were distingued by a different letter. The 1787 hallmark covered the period from 1787 to 1806.