Miniature palanquin with bearers, J. Verhoogt, Hoorn, 1910

Heavy silver miniature of a sedan chair with bearers, made by the silversmith J. Verhoogt from Hoorn. Active from 1896 to 1936.

Jan (Johannes) Verhoogt  started as a knife sharpener, later specializing entirely in luxurious silver miniatures. In the antique world, he became world-renowned as the specialist in windmills and sailing ships.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, sedan chairs were a popular and luxurious mode of transport for the wealthy elite in European cities. This type of miniature was popular for furnishing exclusive dollhouses and display cabinets.

The chair (or cabin) itself features a characteristic curved roof with an elegant finial on top, and an opening door with a small window through which the imaginary passenger could enter.

At the front and back of the long carrying poles (shafts) are detailed silver figures of people in historical, 18th-century clothing (including traditional tricorn hats and coats) who are lifting the chair.

The miniature is hallmarked with the second fineness mark, Minerva head, year letter A for 1910, and the maker's mark JV with a hammer.

The miniature is in perfect condition.

Weight: 58.8 grams. Dimensions: 3.8 x 4 x 6.2 cm.

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