Description

Rare higher grade blued steel slip case – the lower grade more commonly found in a brass slip case, still relatively rare in their own right. (here priced at about half of retail on the more common type) Minor wear and rubbing to case. Statue is either a higher grade silver content pewter, has a wash or is possibly a low grade silver. It has a sheen that is not seen on the most common pewter examples we have handled, yet exhibits none of the “blue” hue often seen with brittania. Some minor smooth rubbing to statue. These little cased pocket statues, associated with Catholic believers primarily, have been well documented in the personal effects of Civil War soldiers, dug at documented CW sites and are pictured in multiple references. The well made steel case is blued to reduce the risk of rust from perspiration whilst carried in the pocket. It is very well made of obvious quality craftsmanship and material – tool/firearm quality. The statue is the most sought after Madonna holding the Christ Child – less commonly found than some of the saints. We have handled dozens of these over the years and this is the only example of this higher grade case and statue we have ever had to offer. Ryker case included.