*Edwardian, Silver Mounted Leather Riding Crop with Stag Horn Handle, by Robert Neale, Birmingham 1909, engraved Elizabeth Waters Gt Plumstead*
An Edwardian silver-mounted riding crop, hallmarked Birmingham 1909, the fittings by Robert Neale. The crop is mounted with a distinctive stag antler handle, decorated with cross-stitched inlay along the grip. The wooden shaft is leather bound, tapering to a stitched leather keeper tip. The upper silver collar is engraved in script Elizabeth Waters, Gt Plumstead, providing a strong personal provenance. Both silver mounts are struck with full Birmingham hallmarks: maker’s mark R.N, anchor (Birmingham), lion passant (sterling), and date letter K for 1909. The crop measures 62 cm overall.
Historical Note: Riding crops with silver mounts became fashionable in the late Victorian and Edwardian period, often serving as personal gifts or presentation pieces for members of the landed gentry and equestrian community. The dedication to Elizabeth Waters of Great Plumstead, Norfolk provides a direct link to the local rural gentry at the turn of the century. Great Plumstead, situated in the Blofield Hundred east of Norwich, was then a prosperous farming parish where horses played a vital role both in agriculture and leisure. The crop reflects both utility and status, combining traditional horn with fine silver fittings.
*Condition* The crop remains in presentable original condition, showing the expected age-related wear. The silver mounts have surface scratches and patina from use, with hallmarks and engraving still legible. The antler handle is sound with attractive colouration and decorative inlay intact. The leather binding to the shaft is worn in areas with minor drying and stitching losses but remains firmly in place. The stitched leather keeper at the tip is intact though worn with age. Overall, a genuine Edwardian period crop with a pleasing patina. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
