Ferocious Cat

This cat means business. Sure, he has a cute bow around his neck (forms a pen rest), but he’s angry – just look at his glaring eyes, mouth wide open with fangs bared.  If you dare, grab the nose, lift the hinged head, and you’ll find the inkwell.

Two examples are shown. One is painted cast iron. The second is made of bronze. The bronze cat has the Bergman mark and properly marked “GESCHUTZT”.

A word of caution:

Watch out for modern-day reproductions of this cat. Buying in person and handling the piece is the best way to evaluate. If buying online, ask for pictures, especially pictures of the underside base and the area around the insert. Things to watch for:

• This original is made of cast iron. The reproductions are made of bronze. The bronze in places is rough and slightly pitted.
• Some reproductions are marked “GESCHUTZ” at the back of the neck. The lettering is indistinct and slightly crooked. The correct spelling is “Geschutzt” – a German word for “patented”.
• Look at the insert. If the insert is metal, you’re probably looking at a reproduction. Is the area around the insert smooth and unworn? That’s a red flag.
• Turn the piece over and look at the bottom. Do you see small old screws? Or is the bottom rough bronze, part of the entire mold? If the later, be cautious.
• The reproductions do show paint ware – the paint will not be pristine. On an original piece, however, the paint would have subtly flaked off.
• Look at the hinge. If it looks new, it is new.
• It seems many of these modern-made versions are sold from England.

If in doubt, don’t!