A lovely and rare vintage silver-plated Napier Art Deco "Cat / Mouse" jigger. This "Cat / Mouse" jigger actually has a bell inside of it and when you shake it, the bell rattles. When you want to fill the jigger, you flip it upside down and it balances perfectly on it's tail and two ears. Then pour the contents into your drink. When not in use, it sits upright as a regal feline/cat. Truly a gorgeous figural piece.
A quick bit of history on Napier: The Napier Company was named after its president, James H. Napier, who led the company from 1920 to 1960. But the company's history can be tracked back to 1875 when it was founded as Whitney and Rice in Attleboro, Mass., manufacturing silver products. The firm changed hands and name in 1882 and became Carpenter and Bliss and shortly thereafter, E.A. Bliss and Co., Inc. After rapid expansion in the late 1880s the company moved to Meriden, CT in 1890. After WWI, the firm shifted emphasis from silver products to production of modern jewelry. James Napier became president in 1920 and the company adopted the name Napier - Bliss Co. In 1922, the name was changed to Napier Company. Like many jewelry companies Napier got into lines of art objects and other utilitarian objects like cocktail shakers. In the early to mid 1930s they started producing several cocktail shakers (most notably the "Dial a Drink shaker" and the Rooster motif shaker) other pieces of barware including their well-known graduated/stepped jigger, the mechanical/valve jigger, and their Art Deco-style cat jigger.
Measurements: Approx 3" tall Maker/year: Napier, 1930s Hallmarks: "Napier" can be found on the tail Condition: Excellent condition. A rarity for this particular Napier jigger, which often gets hairline cracks. No dents or dings. There is some noticeable patina (which adds to the magical factor) on the body as well as the head and also a small bit of patina/tarnish to the interior. Please note: this jigger has not been polished as some buyers are very particular about as is condition. In short, this jigger is in excellent condition with noticeable patina. Truly a magical and rare bar measure.
**On shipping: We take our packaging very seriously and carefully wrap all pieces to ensure safe delivery.
****Important to note pre-purchase: Buyers, please examine all photos carefully as we cannot accept returns due to the fragile nature (the possibility of breakage or damage when being shipped back) of our vintage/antique pieces. Our items are true vintage pieces that might have manufacturers flaws, flaws from age, or imperfections in general from being vintage. We try to explain the condition/description in an accurate and thorough manner but we ask that you please examine all photos carefully and ask all questions before purchasing an item as we are unable to accept returns due to the risk of breakage/damage.