Art Deco Sterling Silver Dog Collar

Human beings have taken care of dogs since the Stone Age. They were the first animals purposely fed by humans, predating the tending of cows, chickens and sheep. The link is inextricable and indefinable.

Over time dog collars have taken on a multitude of forms. They have evolved from necessary protection for the animal to that of the human desire to decorate and ornament pets. This is a lovely and rare example of a collar crafted in solid sterling silver. Its flexible elongated flat oval silver links are joined by wide silver bands. The collar is adjustable using its accompanying sterling and metal key.

The collar will fit around the neck of a dog from 11-3/4 inches (29.8 cm) to 10-3/4 inches (27.3 cm) in circumference. A plaque is engraved with the owner’s name of “H.J. Dedman” A later but also older silver plaque has been placed over what may have been the owner’s former address. Nonetheless, the collar was clearly cherished and retained. The reverse of the plaque reads “A. Barrett & Sons Manufacturers 63 & 64 Piccadilly London”.

Measures 5/8 of an inch (1.5 cm) in width and has a weight of 58.5 grams. Hallmarked “AB&S”, with the lion passant symbolizing London and the date letter “i” for 1924. On the ends each overall link is marked on the front with the lion passant. Condition is very good with expected general wear. Reverse of clasp has more noticeable wear. Front tag has a later date sterling silver covering. Overall warm fine patina; some hallmarks now faint; otherwise fine. English in origin and dates to 1924.