This is a model of the 6 inch howitzer, nicknamed "The Wolf", that was built in the railway workshops of Mafeking while it was under siege (13 October 1899-17 May 1900) during the Second Boer War. The siege is often pointed at as one of the few symbolic victories for the British early in the war. The metal parts of the howitzer are Sterling silver plated brass with four hallmarks and "THE WOLF" on the barrel, the makers mark "F.W" in a shield, and the carriage is hardwood. The howitzer rests on a hardwood base with a silver presentation plaque (five hallmarks, "G&Sco/Ltd" makers mark) stating that it was presented to The Royal Empire Society by Major Samuel Weil along with information about the howitzer. Weil was part of a family of business owners present in South Africa at the time that were critical in supplying British troops in the region during the siege and throughout the war. The base measures approximately 12 x 24 1/4 inches. Provenance: The Richard P. Mellon Collection

Very fine, 95% plus of the silver plating remains showing an attractive antique patina with some light edge wear showing bright brass. The wood carriage and plinth shows minimal wear.