A set of ten early 19th century Dutch silver buttons
unknown maker's mark, dagger small article mark .833
Octagonal form, all engraved with a traditional horseman on horseback, sword held aloft, an applied button shank to the reverse, diameter 2cm, weight 1oz. (10)
Footnotes:
Small circular and octagonal buttons with an engraved picture of a horseman are characteristic of Drenthe and Friesland in the north of the Netherlands. They are colloquially known as 'ruiters' or 'ruitertjes' (riders). They are now considered typical of the town of Staphorst, where they are still worn with traditional costume (and where modern versions are still being made).