Sazikov mechanical model of an open cattle or livestock railway wagon, St. Petersburg, 1873

Silver

4 5/8 x 3 3/4 x 5 15/16 in. (11.8 x 9.5 x 15 cm)

Inv. no. ab_2536

Item Description: This miniature mechanical model of an open cattle or livestock wagon is finely detailed to show the textures of the various materials. The wheels turn and it could be made to roll along the owner’s desk or shelf. It recalls Sazikov’s 1871 writing compendium modeled as a steam locomotive now in the collection of the Hermitage Museum. Like some of Fabergé’s models, this miniature cattle car has no hidden function; it does not store materials or implements meant to aid in smoking or writing. The item is a great rarity as well as a mystery. Much nineteenth-century wealth was built through the railways, so it is possible that this “toy” belonged to some nineteenth-century railway magnate.