Miniature puppet show, J. Verhoogt, Hoorn, 1906

Heavy silver miniature of a puppet show, made by silversmith J. Verhoogt from Hoorn. Active from 1896 to 1936.

Jan (Johannes) Verhoogt started as a knife grinder, later specializing entirely in luxury silver miniatures. In the antique world, he became globally famous as the specialist in windmills and sailing ships.

Such scenes reflect the historical tradition of Dutch street entertainment, captured by silversmiths in silver down to the smallest detail.

The miniature is constructed from a classic, mobile wooden puppet booth with a sloping roof. The silver panel on the front is decorated with a fine block or diamond pattern (guilloché engraving).

In the window opening of the puppet booth stands the iconic hand puppet Jan Klaassen, recognizable by his pointed hat. He holds his arms triumphantly aloft.

In front of the booth is a group of spectators in historical 18th-century attire with tricorn hats. One of the figures enthusiastically waves a long stick or saber in the air to attract the attention of passers-by.

To the left is a closed travel chest on a foldable stand, in which the puppeteer transported his puppets and travel clothes.

The miniature is hallmarked with the second fineness mark, Minerva head, year letter Y for 1906, and the maker's mark JV with a hammer.

The miniature is in perfect condition.

Weight: 48 grams. Dimensions: 4.2 x 4.2 x 5 cm.

Check out the blog about silversmith J. Verhoogt from Hoorn here