Silver miniature stagecoach J.S. Zwanenburg & Son, Sneek, 19th century

Silver miniature spittoon, made by Fa. Jan Sjerps Zwanenburg & Zn from Sneek. Active from 1864 to 1900.

A miniature version of an antique silver stagecoach, pulled by a horse on a base. This specific miniature was made by the renowned silversmith family Zwanenburg from Sneek (active in the 19th and early 20th century) and shows highly detailed elements such as a coachman on the box and passengers looking out of the windows. The engraved year 1715 on the side refers to a historically fictitious or symbolic dating, as the silver toy itself was produced later (late 19th century).

A stagecoach was a horse-drawn, spring-suspended carriage used for regular public transport from the 17th to the early 20th century. At the time, it fulfilled the combined role of today's train, bus, and mail delivery.

To maintain speed, the stagecoach stopped every 15 to 20 kilometers at a regular inn or post station (a 'relais'). Here, the tired horses were exchanged for fresh, rested horses within minutes, allowing the coach to continue immediately. This system revolutionized the speed of communication. With the arrival of the steam train and the railway network in the 19th century, the stagecoach quickly lost its function, as the train was much faster and more comfortable.

The miniature is hallmarked with the sword for at least 2nd grade silver. Also hallmarked with maker's mark JZ222.

In good condition.

Weight: 41.7 grams. Dimensions: 2 x 4 x 9 cm.