Scottish Highland ram’s head snuff mull with finely engraved silver mounts hallmarked Edinburgh, bearing the maker’s mark of Wilson & Sharp. Founded in Edinburgh in 1898 by Robert Wilson and Andrew Sharp, the firm became one of Scotland’s foremost silversmiths, renowned for finely crafted Highland Revival silver, including quaichs, tea services, caddy spoons, and other traditional Scottish presentation pieces. Their maker’s mark was registered with the Edinburgh Assay Office in 1901.

Snuff mulls served as both practical containers and ceremonial objects, storing powdered tobacco for communal sharing. They occupied a central role in Highland hospitality, where the offering of snuff was a customary gesture during social gatherings, hunting parties, and estate life. This example retains its original suite of suspended implements—including a mallet, rake, spoon, pick, and rabbit’s foot brush—used to prepare, loosen, portion, and clean the snuff.

The unusually large taxidermied ram’s head reflects the Highlands’ close association with sheep farming, deer stalking, sporting estates, and pastoral life, while the richly engraved Celtic knotwork, thistle ornament, and faceted hardstone finials embody the Highland Revival style that celebrated Scotland’s cultural heritage during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Mounted on concealed casters, the mull could be easily passed among guests during formal gatherings. XRF analysis indicates the silver mounts test approximately 94% silver, consistent with sterling-grade silver.

Dimensions: 21 x 22 x 15.5 in. high.

Shipping: Free Sacramento pickup. Shipping via FedEx within the continental U.S. for $165 plus 1.5% insurance (unless waived in writing).

Overall very good antique condition with expected wear consistent with age and ceremonial use. Retaining its gilt-lined interior, concealed casters, carved horn mounts, and original suspended accessories, including the mallet, rake, spoon, pick, and rabbit’s foot brush. Silver exhibiting light wear and surface patina. Hallmarked for Edinburgh and testing approximately 94% silver by XRF analysis.