A portrait model of a shorthorn Dexter bull in obsidian set with cabochon ruby eyes.

Among the breeds of cattle kept by King Edward VII at Sandringham were pedigree shorthorns, red polls, Jerseys and Irish Dexters. The herd was reputed to be one of the finest in England and won many prizes. These animals were mainly kept at Church Farm, Wolferton, and continued to be bred by King George V. This magnificent carving is made of obsidian, a natural volcanic glass which when highy polished has a velvety sheen, particularly suited to replicating the shiny quality of the coat of a well-groomed bull. This model was purchased by Queen Alexandra from the London branch in November 1908 for £44.

Text adapted from Fabergé's Animals: A Royal Farm in Miniature