This vintage brass dog nutcracker is a rare and unique item that would make a wonderful addition to any collection. The piece measures 10 inches long by 4 inches high, and weighs 2 lbs 10 oz (including the copper cup that weighs 1 1/2 oz). Made in the United Kingdom, this piece features a brass construction with no identifying marks. The nutcracker is shaped like a dog, possibly a mastiff, and has a very distinctive design that is eye-catching and sure to impress even the most discerning buyers. It is the perfect piece for anyone who loves brass or vintage collectibles, and will be a treasured item for years to come. That’s certainly accurate! But it doesn’t address why I have this nutcracker for sale! Daphne Gie bequeathed it to us! Daphne was a “proper” English private-school teacher who collected “nutcrackers”. Daphne taught art to 9 and 10 year olds – and didn’t love children. She loved Afghan Hounds. >>> and collected nutcrackers! I do not know where or when she collected this particular NUTCRACKER, but I have. Spent hours on the internet looking for one like it, with NO success. Three are plenty of similar ones, made of cast iron, but not one in Brass whose implementing arm rides proud of the dog”s body. This is a very heavy piece. The dog is standing on a platform and his tail and back are the bar that open up his mouth where the nuts are crushed. The copper bowl is separate. I believe it is original to the piece. Neither the dog nor the bowl are marked. I met Daphne, who was a generation older than me, through my interest in Afghan Hounds. She literally wrote the book on Afghans! We exchanged visits and shared dog shows. When Daphne died she left her nutcracker collection – and her house in Australia to me and my husband. As I approach the task of finding homes for the things I collected e. Antique maps, 18th C glass and silver, and pewter ice cream molds, I realize that I need to find homes for her treasures too: Move them on to the next generation to be held, and appreciated. I started with her “naked lady” nutcracker and have moved on to the “dog” – even if it isn’t an afghan! Daphne bought this as an. Adult and it was her favorite, but, being a “proper English lady”, she never discussed its value. That does NOT MEAN I do not know what these things are worth – so please do not insult Daphne’s memory with lowball offers. BD, GD, BR & LT keep their homes. Thank you for reading this.