Pair of substantial historic architectural elements of a classic dolphin design, crafted in bronze, circa 19th century. Each antique dolphin is currently mounted on a solid wood base and capped with wood. These architectural elements had most recently been incorporated into a local home as part of the majestic fireplace.The HMS Dolphin (1882) was a screw sloop launched in 1882. In 1884-85 she took part in military operations in eastern Sudan. In 1893, while under the command of Lieutenant Christopher Cradock, she rescued the crew of the Brazilian Navy corvette, Almirante Barroso, which had wrecked on the coast of the Red Sea near Ras Zeith in January 1893 during an around-the-world cadet cruise.By 1900, Dolphin had become a seagoing training brig under the command of Lieutenant John Luce. She took part in the fleet review held at Spithead in August 1902 for the coronation of King Edward VII. She served as a submarine depot ship in World War I. She foundered in 1925 but was beached and used as a school ship. She was broken up in 1977. Overall size each: 48 x 7 3/4 x 17 in.Dolphin size each: 34 x 5 x 17 in.