Habsburg Fallow Trophy on Hand Carved Gilt Plaque from Eckartsau Castle

This historical 19th century Habsburg fallow deer trophy is mounted on a hand carved, gold gilt Habsburg double-headed eagle back plaque. Also included is an original hunt Horn, inscribed with "K u K", which is the abbreviated form of the German phrase kaiserlich und königlich, meaning "Kaiser and King" representing the dual monarchy of the Austro-Hungarian Empire (where Emperor Franz Joseph was Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary). In addition, the "Eck" inscription stands for Eckartsau Castle, a favorite hunting Schloss of the Habsburg family in the Southern Austrian Alps. The cypher mounted on the cap of the trophy is that of Frederick Wilhelm of Prussia. Dimensions: H 32" x W 28" x D 23". Patination to the gilt is present, along with wear consistent with the age of this piece. Part of The European Hunt collection, this collection of antique hunting trophies has been examined and appraised by James Supp of Coronado Trading Co., who is best known for his work with the PBS pr