20 Greek Geometric 18K+ Gold Hair Rings & Pins, 412. 4 g: Ancient Eastern Greece, Geometric period, ca. 8th century BCE. A stunning gathering of twenty wire-form hair accessories made from 81% to 88% gold (equivalent to 18K+ to 21K+) that exhibit serpentine forms and fine layers of lustrous patina. Three coiled hair rings have double-layered strands that terminate in twisted, crimped ends, and two of the larger hair coils bear one end that terminates in either three of four petite loops. One ring bears a thicker, two-layered body with dozens of incised exterior striations, and three slender pins have flat, discoid finials. Six shorter coils bear spiraled terminals with wrapped loops on either end with one bearing straight terminals. A pair of coils have flattened terminals, and the smallest pair features gold granules on pyramidal terminals. A fantastic gathering of ancient hair accessories! Size of largest (spiral w/ three end loops): 2. 5" W x 3. 125" H (6. 4 cm x 7. 9 cm); quality of gold: 81% to 88% (equivalent to 18K+ to 21K+); total weight: 412. 4 grams. . . Provenance: ex-Madame Frances Artuner collection, Brussels, Belgium, acquired in the 1960s. . All items legal to buy/sell under U. S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. . . A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. . We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience. . #151777 Condition Loss to one pyramidal finial on corresponding hair coins as shown. Fissure and separation to one area of band of thickest ring. All items have slight bending to overall forms, light encrustations, and minor nicks and abrasions. Light earthen deposits and smooth patina throughout. Overall Dimensions Unit: Height: 0. 00 Width: 0. 00 Depth: 0. 00 Weight: 0. 00
JEWELRY. Assorted Southwest Jewelry. : Includes an inlaid sterling band ring, size - 13; a signed D. Clark sterling necklace with inlaid purple spiny oyster pendants and a bear form inlaid drop pendant; an apparently unmarked sterling inlaid opal necklace; a signed Rick Tolina inlaid sterling necklace; a signed Robert Kelly inlaid sterling Kachina pendant suspended from a sterling beaded necklace; a signed GF sterling inlaid bracelet; an inlaid sterling deer brooch, apparently unmarked; a sterling squash blossom necklace with (5) bear claw pendants inlaid with blue cabochons; a signed Sara Platero feather necklace; a sterling bear claw ring, size - 8; a sterling charm bracelet with (7) Yei charms - stamped, "sterling" with an unidentified pictorial hallmark, toggle clasp, measures approx. 8. 5" in overall length; a signed Simplicio sterling ring with Lapis Lazulis, size - 7; a turquoise and sterling necklace; a signed TJ sterling inlaid necklace; a signed Cathy AB sterling inlaid necklace; a signed MTT sterling inlaid necklace - stamped, "MTT © Sterling"; a sterling turquoise inlaid necklace with urn form drop pendant; a signed sterling inlaid necklace - stamped, "Sterling SS" with an unidentified pictorial hallmark; a signed Kachina figure pendant on a silver chain - pendant is stamped verso, "E. Martinez Zuni Rain Dancer"; and a Tom & Sylvia Key "Storyteller" necklace. Total approx. weight of all items is 18. 14 troy oz (gross). From a Manhattan, NY estate. Condition Good, with light surface scratches and minor dings/dents.
Two black satin ground ladies' coats with embroidered decoration
Late Qing/Republic Period
The first embroidered in Peking knots with a flower-and-butterfly motif, lined with ivory and turquoise blue bands bearing further embroidery detail; the second embroidered in bright color floss silks and couched gilt threads bearing a similar design, with a cloud head-shaped collar and embroidered yellow silk sleeve bands; both lined.
45 1/2in (115.5cm) length of the second
FOUR ENGLISH SILVER-TOPPED AND ACCENTED CANES INCLUDING ONE INSCRIBED F HOPTON MUCH WENLOCK 1890FOUR ENGLISH SILVER-TOPPED AND ACCENTED CANES INCLUDING ONE INSCRIBED F HOPTON MUCH WENLOCK 1890, the first, Birmingham with a crowned hunting horn and labeled Yorkshire 1923, marks rubbed, h: 33.5 in.; a simple cane with silver top, the top decorated with partial marks and maker's mark of JH, all on a scrolling foliate ground, h: 35 in.; a simple delicate wood cane with silver top bearing dedicatory inscription "F Hopton Much Wenlock 1890, London maker's mark of J.A.S, h: 35.5 in.; and the final, with a curved horn handle and two silver bands on wood stick, pointed end, the wider band monogrammed in script and dated Jan. 1930, the narrow band, London 1907 and maker's marks for NF over CE, the narrow silver band also with same marks and delicately chased, h: 36 in. (4) Provenance: Merrywood, Virginia Estate
Maurice Sendak I SAW ESAU 1992 Iona Peter Opie Walker Books Schoolchild's Pocket Book Children's Literature Commercial LIthograph Details: This lot consists of the artwork shown in the corresponding image(s).The dimensions of this poster (Hanrahan C23a1) are approximately 10" x 20". On a dark blue background appear information in pink, green, and yellow ink relating to the book "I Saw Esau" edited by Iona and Peter Opie. Interspersed with the text are a large drawing of some jovial people in old-fashioned dress and six smaller panels depicting a mother protecting a child. At the bottom of the text in small type appear location and copyright information.To inspect and acquire more detailed information about this lot, please attend our live preview before the auction.Condition / Notes: The top of this poster displays within thin pink and yellow bands the blue text "Walker Books," with a blue candle-bearing bear between the words. Identical bands separate the main body of the poster from the copyright information below. Between the two sets of three panels each with the mother and child appears the text "Rain, rain, go away / Come another summer's day." This piece is in pristine condition.For lots which include only books, our shipping charge applies to any address within the fifty United States. For lots which are not books, the stated shipping cost in this listing will apply only to addresses within the continental 48 states. Within those parameters, the shipping cost for this lot will be: $6.50
A 19th century Russian silver-gilt and cloisonné enamelled salt
bearing the mark of Pavel Ovichinnikov, Moscow 1875, also stamped with '91' standard markCircular, interior embellished with an upper band of entwined ropes, below a blue and black ovolu band, followed by a beaded white band, centre embellished with a turquoise roundel enclosed by a similar beaded band as body and polychrome foliate scrolls, exterior similar embellished as interior, raised on spreading circular foot, rim embellished with a rope-twist band, diameter 7cm, together with a late 19th century Russian salt makers mark distorted, Moscow 1895, compressed-spherical form, embellished with an upper and lower turquoise band, body embellished with stylised cloud scrolls embellished with stylised tulips and foliate scrolls, on a dark blue ground, interior gilded, raised on a spreading collet foot, diameter 7cm. (2)
CANE WITH CARVED WALRUS IVORY POLAR BEAR HANDLE 19TH CENTURY LENGTH 36.25".CANE WITH CARVED WALRUS IVORY POLAR BEAR HANDLE, 19th Century, Polar bear with elongated neck, bent over at the waist, forming an L-shaped handle, and detailed with inset wooden eyes, and carved snout, mouth, ears, paws and textured fur. Ebony and walrus ivory banded throat. Fruitwood shaft with whalebone ferrule. Dimensions: Length 36.25".
Two small bronze decorations with silver wire inlay
18th/19th Century
The first a hu-form vase with raised animal mask handles placed over a taotie mask band executed in linear relief, the base bearing a Shisou mark in wire inlay (surface soiling, wear); the second a small saucer dish with a leiwen band to the rim flange, dragon roundel centering the shallow well and bearing a Shisou mark to the recessed base, all executed in silver wire inlay (both with extensive surface soiling and wear to patina).
4in (10cm) height of vase
Vanderslice & Co. Aesthetic Silver Mug: Gilt wash Aesthetic style mug bearing band of engraved decoration and monogram, "B. B. B" by Wm Vanderslice & Co. Marked on base, "V & Co hallmark / Wm Vanderslice & Co / 136 / Sutter St. / S. F. Cal. " Gross weight: 6. 38 ozt. Dimensions: 3. 62"h. Provenance: Edwin Iloff Silver Collection, Sacramento, Ca. Original receipt: Berry & Company, 11/16/2000 for $750. 00. Processing and shipping within the continental U. S. $19. 99 plus 1. 5% replacement cost insurance. Please note we do not accept credit cards. Condition Very good. Witherells strives to provide as much information and photographs as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Condition statements are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Witherells. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions.
A pair of silver-mounted French flintlock pistols bearing the arms of the Dukes of Noaillesby Antoine Berthaut, Paris, first quarter 18th century
Each with 9 inch .56 caliber tapered round barrel decorated with gold overlaid banding at muzzle, leafy scrolls framing the silver fore-sights, strapwork and banding at the breeches and on the sighting ribs signed Berthaut A Paris. Tangs engraved with lion masks. Locks engraved with dentate borders, the stepped tails with cupids and hounds. Lockplates signed Bertaut/A Paris and marked under the cocks F. Tivet/Lecadet. Hallmarked silver furniture: triggerguards with acanthus finials; pierced, scrolling sideplates incorporating monster heads; spurred buttcaps molded with masks and scrollwork with central panel of a female warrior a la antique; wrist escutcheons surmounted by ducal crowns and bearing the coat-of-arms of Noailles, gules, a ben or. Full walnut stocks relief-carved with floral scrolls and inlaid with silver wire scrollwork. Ramrods with steel caps.
Condition: Very good to fine. Barrels with grey metal showing light pitting and some wear to gilt decoration. Locks have been cleaned but show generally sharp engraving, one with replaced cock, the action in need of adjustment. Silver furniture showing wear from cleaning. Stocks sound and showing scattered light marks. One pistol showing more wear to furniture and stock than the other.
See Illustration
FABERGE STYLE RUSSIAN WOOD AND GILT BELL PUSH, BEARING CYRILLIC MARK OF FABERGE AND ANOTHER MARK bearing Cyrillic mark of Faberge and another mark, of drum form with a high central moonstone cabochon within a scrolling leaf-tip band and encircled by a beaded band and a row of multi-colored leafy sprigs, the sides with eight leafy sprigs, all atop four fluted ball feet - dia: 2 3/8 in.
Two Antique Tortoise Shell & Silver Vanity Boxes, the first a heart shaped tortoise shell box with scalloped silver bands and bottom bearing Birmingham (1897) hallmarks and a rubbed sponsor's mark, gold wash to bottom of interior, (2.25" x 3.75" x 3.25").The second a circular silver box raised on three trifid feet, the hinged cover with inset tortoise shell with applied silver cartouche, bearing London (1913) hallmarks and rubbed sponsor's mark, (1.25" x 2 1/8" dia.).Some misshaping to feet of circular box, some very minimal scratching to both.
A group Southwestern stone fetish animals, Late 20th/21st Century Four variously marked Comprised of a serpentine bear (Kyle Mahooty, Zuni), a Petoskey coral fox (Donovan Lawaikete, Zuni), a jet ram (Julia Norton, Navajo), a banded serpentine bear (Eugene Mahooty, Zuni), a speckled serpentine bear (Emery Eriacho, Zuni), a green serpentine heartline bear and lime serpentine heartline bear (possibly Lawaikete family, Zuni), as well as an agate buffalo, a nephrite lizard, and a grey marble bear, 10 pieces Lime heartline bear: 2" H x 2.5" W Notes: Artists and materials identified from collector's notes. Dimensions: Lime heartline bear: 2" H x 2.5" W
Ten eggshell porcelain bowls
Each of identical shape, painted in famille rose enamels combined with black enamel decorative bands and roundels in various patterns and bearing Qianlong Marks to the recessed bases: the first pair painted with a spring landscape; the second pair painted with beauties and bearing an additional oval Qianlong seal on the exterior walls, the bases stamped 'China'; the third pair painted with scholars and servant and bearing an additional oval Qianlong seal on the exterior walls, the bases stamped 'China'; the fourth pair painted with peony sprays and the fifth pair displaying a mille fleurs pattern (most with rough mouth rims).
Diameters 5in (12.5cm)
Carved Montana Agate Perfume Bottle—"Essence of Wind"
By Thomas Harth Ames
Agate is one of the most varied and desired forms of chalcedony, which is one of the many varieties of quartz. Scientifically classified as a cryptocystalline or microcrystalline quartz, it has a hardness of 7—making it extremely desirable for carving and polishing. Montana agate is an alluvial agate found in gravel deposits on the banks of the Yellowstone River. Volcanic activity produced the original conditions necessary for the formation of agate, spanning an area of hundreds of miles and a period of millions of years. The volcanoes entombed parts of the swampy sequoia forests there in lava and ash. Finally, when the rains came, mineral-rich silica-water flowed into the cavities and pockets left by the dying trees and bubbling lava—filling the gaps with liquefied silica which, under great pressure, formed agate.
Probably the hardest agate known, Montana agate is recognized for its wonderful translucency and ability to accept a very high polish and produce a reflective shine. It was employed as far back as the 18th century by Swiss clock and watchmakers for creating bearings—giving them a reputation for making the most accurate, durable and long-lasting timepieces in the world.
The lapidary artistry of Ames is brought to life in this a functional sculpture made entirely of Montana Agate. Selecting an unusual piece of rough for the stopper with bands of dendritic inclusions and a splash of crimson-caramel carnelian coloring—while still a rough slice, its basic shape suggested wind-blown hair to Ames—and formed the theme for the actual carving. Developing a special sand blasting tool allowed him to carve the agate with flowing shapes and contours—an effect which could not be achieved using any other method. Once the stopper was carved to its "windswept" appearance, a raw piece of agate had to be chosen that would add balance and symmetry when worked up into an essence bottle. The present piece was selected because the bands of dendritics matched the banding in the stopper and its simple shape complemented its contours. The result is a unique object of beauty which cannot be duplicated.
Height 5 1/2in
* An American Silver Punchbowl, Tiffany & Co., New York, NY, First Half 20th Century, the banded body bearing the engraved mo * An American Silver Punchbowl Tiffany & Co., New York, NY, First Half 20th Century the banded body bearing the engraved monogram EB, raised on a stepped circular foot. marked '19135' and '6202' on underside 77 ozt 17 dwts Diameter 12 1/2 inches. Estimate $ 1,000-2,000 Property from the Collection of Lawrie Bird, Winnetka, Illinois
JEWELRY. Contemporary Southwest Jewelry Grouping. : Includes a large oval form inlaid sterling ring, size - 4 1/2; a signed R. Hoskie Dino sterling multi-tier ring with oval inlaid panel - stamped verso, "R. Hoskie Dino Sterling", size - 6 3/4; a men's sterling ring central rectangular inlaid panel, size - 13 1/4; a signed H. Jim sterling ring with central round inlaid panel and beautiful textural and pierced finish to band - stamped, "H. Jim Sterling" representing Harrison Jim (Navajo), ring size - 9; a signed sterling ring comprised of a thin raised panel with textural design and central inlaid panel - stamped to interior of band, "Sterling RB", size - 6 1/2; a large signed sterling ring with inlay - stamped verso, "Sterling" with etched inscription of, "Ventana en la sanuario silver snake" (translating to window in the sanctuary), size - 9; a Calvin Begay sterling inlaid and articulated necklace - stamped verso, "Calvin Begay Sterling" (Navajo); a signed Ken Romero sterling inlaid navette form pendant - stamped verso, "Ken Romero Taos Sterling", suspended from a sterling beaded necklace; a pair of sterling feather form earrings with applied oval inlaid earrings - apparently unmarked; a signed sterling and Lapis Lazulis necklace - stamped, "CN Navajo Sterling" representing Clem Nalwood (Navajo); a pair of signed J. Howe? sterling feather form earrings with an applied oval inlaid panel - stamped verso, "J. Howe Sterling"; a pair of sterling earrings with inlaid panels - stamped verso, "Sterling BAL"; a signed sterling inlaid necklace - stamped, "TL Sterling"; a signed Chester Benally sterling and Lapis Lazulis necklace - stamped verso, "C Benally Sterling ©" representing Chester Benally (Navajo); a signed sterling inlaid bear pendant - stamped verso, "BF Sterling"; and a signed Rick Tolino sterling necklace with inlaid panel - stamped verso, "Sterling Rick Tolino". Total approx. weight of all items is 14. 24 troy oz (gross). From a Manhattan, NY estate. Dimensions: bear pendant measures approx. 2. 20" w x 1. 65" h. Condition Good, with light surface scratches and minor dings/dents.
A magnificent Imperial pale green jade archaistic vase, hu
Qianlong four-character fang gu mark and of the period The single piece of rich celadon-toned jade deeply hollowed and elaborately carved on the exterior with two bands each containing finely delineated fish, tortoises and birds, some of birds proudly bearing a worm in its beak, and all marching in procession to encircle the rounded body, the front of the vase embellished with a single mythical-beast head suspending a loose-ring handle and matching the two handles flanking the neck also encircled with decorative bands with pairs of archaistic stylised confronted chilong in the major band and delicately incised whorls and carved S-shapes in the minor bands, the high foot with a single band of plaited rope. 41.8cm (16 1/2in) high
MINIATURE TELL BRAK STONE VOTIVE - SEATED BEARAncient Near East, Tell Brak, modern day Syria, ca. 3500 to 3300 BCE. An incredible polished miniature votive stone bear, a very ancient depiction of the brown bears who now live in isolated areas of the Middle East and Turkey but once had a wider distribution throughout the area. Carved from a warm brown banded stone, the bear sits in a human-like pose, as if seated with his knees drawn up, his heavy paws resting on each of his lower legs. The head of the bear is similarly powerful, with a large snout and two small ears poking up from the top of the head. Size: 1.15" W x 1.5" H (2.9 cm x 3.8 cm)
Sir Max Mallowan, the principle excavator at Tell Brak, found large numbers of seated bear figures near the famous Eye Temple, and theorized that they were carved based on knowledge of real bears, who may have been common in the area around the temple.
Provenance: private East Coast collection, New York, USA; ex-East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.
Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.
#152930
Condition:
One ear is partially lost, otherwise in nice condition with rich deposits over much of the surface and form clear.
Lot: Six Contemporary Steiff Plush Toys Includes "Uncle Sam" felt character doll with velvet face, five teddy bears including "Jeffrey" bear with medallion, "Teddy Rose", "Teddybar", and musical band leader bear, and "Polar the Titanic Bear" with hardcover book, all are fully jointed mohair bears with glass eyes, original buttons and tags in ears.Largest: 19.5" H.Mint
ALEXANDER RITCHIE, IONA
CELTIC REVIVAL TWIN-HANDLED CUP, DATED 1924-5
silver, repousse decorated to the bowl with a brad band of entwined Celtic beasts and further decorated to the handles, stem and spreading foot with characteristic motifs, bears inscription CHAIDH AN CORN SO A BHUILEACHADH AIR SINE NIC NEACAIL BEAN AN RUNAIR, LE COMMUN GAIDHLIG IONBHAIR - HIS MAT THEIST AIR A SAOTHAIR AS LETH A'CHOMUINN./ 26-3-1926, bears hallmarks for London 1924 and makers marks AR/ IONA
11.5cm high
Note; The inscription on this cup translates as ''This cup was presented to Jane Nicolson, wife of the Secretary of the Gaelic Society of Inverness, in recognition of her work on behalf of the society. 26-3-1926''. The Gaelic Society of Inverness records refer to the cup thus: ''c.1926: to Mrs Nicolson, wife of the Secretary of the Gaelic Society of Inverness, ''a replica in silver of an old Celtic chalice found in Iona, made by Mr Ritchie...'', presumably referring to this twin-handled cup. The use of London hallmarks on work is unusual for Ritchie.
We are grateful to Mairi MacArthur for supplying the above information.
Unusual Chinese Porcelain Vase w/ Red Prunus Fruit Chinese, Qing Dynasty Kangxi Period mark (1662-1722), likely 20th century. An unusual porcelain vase of tapering cylindrical form with narrow incurvate neck, the whole with white glaze ground bearing iron red underglaze hand painted decoration with band of leaf tips at foot and band of lappets at neck surrounding clusters of prunus fruit branches to the body, the neck with a band of ruyi head scrolls. Underside with six character underglaze blue running script mark for the Kangzi imperial reign. Approximate height 14.5", diameter 7.5".
A GROUP SOUTHWESTERN STONE FETISH ANIMALSA group Southwestern stone fetish animals, Late 20th/21st Century Four variously marked Comprised of a serpentine bear (Kyle Mahooty, Zuni), a Petoskey coral fox (Donovan Lawaikete, Zuni), a jet ram (Julia Norton, Navajo), a banded serpentine bear (Eugene Mahooty, Zuni), a speckled serpentine bear (Emery Eriacho, Zuni), a green serpentine heartline bear and lime serpentine heartline bear (possibly Lawaikete family, Zuni), as well as an agate buffalo, a nephrite lizard, and a grey marble bear, 10 pieces Lime heartline bear: 2" H x 2.5" W Notes: Artists and materials identified from collector's notes. Dimensions: Lime heartline bear: 2" H x 2.5" W
Navajo Silver, Sleeping Beauty & Bear Claw Ring: For your bidding pleasure is a Navajo silver, sleeping beauty turquoise and bear claw ring. This ring shows excellent detailed line work in the silver band. A bear claw is set into a silver casing and secured with a small band. Two gorgeous sleeping beauty turquoise gemstones are set along side the bear claw. This ring is a size 13 US. Condition For a complete representation of condition and for additional images please call 800-686-4216. It is the buyer’s responsibility to view each image and preview the item to determine condition.
A Pair of Antique Paris Porcelain Black Ground Grecian-Style Vases, 19th c., each polychromed and gilded, one inscribed "Cèrès" depicting the goddess of cultivation in a dove-drawn chariot guided by Psyche and preceded by a garland-bearing nymph, the other inscribed "Flore" depicting the goddess of fructification in a dove-drawn car guided by Cupid and preceded by a flower-bearing nymph, the reserves with gilt vignettes of musical instruments, the white-glazed interiors ringed at the rims with gilt bands, the necks bearing gilt meander motifs, and the collars with projecting gilded moldings, the undersides with indistinct impressed marks, height 16 1/4 in., diameter 8 in. $800/1200
NEZ NATIVE AMERICAN STERLING, TURQUOISE, CORAL, AND BEAR CLAW WATCH BAND CUFF BRACELET: 2 1/2" INNER W, 1 1/2" GAPNez Native American sterling, turquoise, coral, and bear claw watch band cuff bracelet:, with snake applique, bent wire, and stamp work. Dimensions: 2 1/2" inner W, 1 1/2" gap
NAVAJO TURQUOISE, BEAR CLAW, STERLING NECKLACEThis 22" chain necklace consists primarily of strung small edge-polished white shell discs and ends on both sides with 3 pieces of polished turquoise nuggets. Hanging at the bottom is a real bear claw capped with a wide band of sterling sporting a cast bear's head. There are some sterling beads and two short sections of heavy sterling chain at the end which allow varying the length of the necklace. Fine condition, slight signs of wear and some tarnish on the silver. See the photos for details.
Chinese blue and white 'lotus' form footed dish wanli mark, late 19th century Of petal form, potted with barbed rim and fluted walls, raised on molded lotus petals and tall circular foot, decorated to show central medallion enclosed by ruyi band and scrolling petals, underside decorated to show alternating Tibetan characters and blossoms. D: 7 1/2 in. PROVENANCE: This unusual dish is copying a well known 16th century example, examples bearing Wanli marks are in several public collections. Examples bearing kangxi marks are known to have existed. Descriptions provided in both printed and on-line catalogue formats do not include condition reports. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Interested bidders are strongly encouraged to request a condition report on any lots upon which they intend to bid, prior to placing a bid. All transactions are governed by Freeman''s Conditions of Sale.
TIMEX INDIGLO WATCH WITH 10K GOLD BEAR DETAIL: Bear detail pieces that connect band to watch are solid 10k gold. Timex watch features 20th century styling with adjustable day and date function, and blue backlight. Pentagonal pieces with bear detail are stamped 10k and are hallmarked. Watch band is Speidel and expands. Total approximate weight is 83 grams. . . Issued: 20th c. Dimensions: 7"C, unstretched. Country of Origin: United States Condition Age and use related wear. Available payment options on Bidsquare
* A Yellow Gold Thimble, Possibly American, the knurled top and body above an engraved floral and foliate band bearing an eng * A Yellow Gold Thimble Possibly American the knurled top and body above an engraved floral and foliate band bearing an engraved monogram over a gadroon rim, size 7. apparently unmarked Height 3/4 inch. Estimate $ 200-300 Property from the Collection of Mrs. Bette Bittel Morgan, Phoenix, New York
Japanese Small Gilt Bronze & Champleve Vase First quarter 20th century, the body bearing a wide band of chrysanthemums in blue, red, green, white and black enamel on bright blue ground surmounting a stylized egg and dart band, the shoulder and lip displaying similar geometric patterns, all atop gilt bronze with chased bands of traditional patterns, with two gargoyle handles; stamped "Made in Japan" on underside. 9.75" H. Pitting to enamel consistent with age, bottom likely a replacement with new soldering..
A pair of famille rose enameled porcelain vases
Qianlong Marks, Republican Period
Each delicately enameled as the mirror image of the other and encircled with leafy branches bearing large multi-colored roses and rose-hips, with a poetic inscription and three seals, the canted shoulder decorated with a band of paired bajixiang alternating with a stylized lotus, each side of the neck decorated with a leafy sprig bearing a large blossom and set between ear shaped handles, all between a ruyi band at the mouth and pendent lappets encircling the tall foot, the base bearing a blue enameled four character Qianlong yuzhi mark within a double square.
Heights 8 1/2in (21.5cm)
Japanese Earthenware Pictorial Royal Processional Bowl
Sealed in gold, Meiji Period (1868-1912)
The interior polychrome and gilt enamel painted of a procession with a royal couple riding in a pagoda-form cart; the exterior painted with a procession two flag bearing marchers with various clan flags and leading a band and lantern bearing marchers before a Namban ship-form cart. Minor wear to gilded rim.
Diameter: 4-1/4 in (10.8 cm)
Seal illegible; OK, except as noted in catalogue.
Maurice Sendak I SAW ESAU 1992 Iona Peter Opie Walker Books Schoolchild's Pocket Book Children's Literature Commercial LIthograph Details: This lot consists of the artwork shown in the corresponding image(s).The dimensions of this poster are approximately 10" x 20". On a dark blue background appear information in pink, green, and yellow ink relating to the book "I Saw Esau" edited by Iona and Peter Opie. Interspersed with the text are a large drawing of some jovial people in old-fashioned dress and six smaller panels depicting a mother protecting a child. At the bottom of the text in small type appear location and copyright information.To inspect and acquire more detailed information about this lot, please attend our live preview before the auction.Condition / Notes: The top of this poster displays within thin pink and yellow bands the blue text "Walker Books," with a blue candle-bearing bear between the words. Identical bands separate the main body of the poster from the copyright information below. Between the two sets of three panels each with the mother and child appears the text "Rain, rain, go away / Come another summer's day." This piece is in pristine condition.For lots which include only books, our shipping charge applies to any address within the fifty United States. For lots which are not books, the stated shipping cost in this listing will apply only to addresses within the continental 48 states. Within those parameters, the shipping cost for this lot will be: $6.50
FOUR PIECES OF CHINESE BLUE AND WHITE PORCELAIN AND A JAPANESE IMARI DISH, 18TH CENTURY AND LATERFOUR PIECES OF CHINESE BLUE AND WHITE PORCELAIN AND A JAPANESE IMARI DISH, 18TH CENTURY AND LATER, including a Chinese Export small platter with an extensive landscape to center enclosed within a trellis border and further band to rim of butterflies, flowers on a cell-patterned ground, w: 10 in.; a circular dish with central roundel filled with flowering tree peony, rockery and a fence enclosed within a border of spaced flowers, reverse with two stylized branches, dia: 8.5 in.; a small bowl bearing spurious Kangxi marks, the interior with a bird on flowering prunus branch, lotus and rockery below a patterned band, the exterior decorated with alternating panels of a woman and child at leisure and landscapes, dia: 4.75 in.; and a small circular dish decorated to the center with a woman and child at play beneath a weeping willow tree, the rim with a thin stylized band, dia: 6.25 in.; together with a circular Japanese Imari dish, Edo period, painted in underglaze blue and iron-red, with a central roundel enclosing a central tree and small pagoda within a border of flowering chrysanthemum, the reverse painted with flowering prunus branches and five stilt marks to center, dia: 8.25 in. (5)
Three dressed boot button mohair bears, all with five point joint articulated, and stuffed with excelsior. A large golden bear in night gown with black thread stitching on muzzle and paw delineation, 20"H. A golden to caramel colored bear in gingham night gown with black thread stitching on muzzle and no paw delineation, 16.5"H. Third bear is golden in color in a night gown with red floral banding, black thread stitching on muzzle and paw delineation, and non-functioning growler, 20"H. Condition: gingham dressed bear has repairs to fore paws and are enclosed in stocking attached to dress, rear paw pads have been repaired and replaced, bear with non-functioning growler has wear to paw pads and overall wear to mohair CT Transfer Fee $20
A Sèvres Partially Beau Bleu Jewelled Porcelain Coffee Can and Saucer (Gobelet 'Litron' et sa Soucoupe, 1ère Grandeur)
The Porcelain Circa 1782
both bearing gilt interlaced Ls mark flanked by date letters ee above decorator’s mark L. for L’Ecot, the cup further incised 73, the saucer incised 38A; jewelled between bands of white enamel ‘pearls’ with a wide band of gilt foil interlaced S-scrolls enriched with turquoise and red cabochons, the cup with gilt ribbon-tied white beaded swags suspended from the band running around the mouth of the cup, the saucer with a central medallion.
Height of cup 2 7/8 inches; diameter of saucer 6 1/8 inches.
An important Philadelphia silver coffee pot, ca. 1780, bearing the touch of Joseph and Nathaniel Richardson with an elaborately engraved monogram for Mordecai and Hannah Lewis, the double bellied form with foliate ornament on spout and double scroll handle, the base with gadrooned band, the reverse bears an early 20th c. monogram of Doris E. Sheaffer, a direct descendent of Hannah and Mordecai, 38 ozt., 12 1/2" h.
Various Chinese Artists, 20th Century
Flowers and Insects: Four Hanging Scrolls
The first two bearing the signature and seal of Banding, the third bearing signature and seal of Qi Baishi and the fourth bearing signature and seal of Wang Rong. Each ink and color on paper, mounted on silk.
Sizes from: 54 x 13 1/2 in (137.2 x 34.3 cm) to
50 x 18 1/4 in (127 x 46.4 cm)
Vase of flowers with horizontal creases; 2nd and 3rd with scattered water spotting and staining; 4th has repair in upper left corner.
MODERN COLLECTOR'S GRIZZLY BEAR AXE BY ANATOLY SKca. contemporary, 21st century; modern crafted Hudson Bag/Quebec type felling axe hand forged by Anatoly Skobiak maker with deep engraved bear paws, fine bear head and banding accents on butt of axe, the fine handle has shaped hand grip and fully relief carving (machined) of bear head on either side of handle, stained and varnished, 24"l; Condition: good
JEWELRY. Sterling and Gold-Filled Jewelry Grouping: Includes a signed sterling squash blossom style necklace comprised of oval pendants with applied Kachina figures with matched earrings - stamped verso, "ER Sterling"; a signed Thomas sterling, gold-filled and malachite cuff bracelet - stamped verso, "Thomas 1/20 12K G. F. Sterling", malachite measures approx. 7. 5mm x 11. 5mm; (2) signed gold-filled bracelets of openwork design set with oval cut cabochons - one with malachite and one with onyx, each bracelet is stamped, "1/20 12kt G. E. SH"; a signed Danny Dale sterling pendant with applied Kachina figure and bezel set onyx cabochon - stamped verso, "Danny Dale Sterling"; Danny Dale sterling necklace with applied feathers and Kachina figures, and central turquoise cabochon - stamped verso, "Danny Dale Sterling"; a Ricky Reeder circular sterling brooch or pendant with applied Native American on horseback and (3) feather drops - stamped verso, "Ricky Reeder Sterling"; Danny Dale sterling pendant with applied feather and bezel set onyx cabochon suspended from a mariner's link sterling chain - pendant is stamped verso, "Danny Dale Sterling"; a watch strap with signed sterling and 14kt gold terminals - central depiction of Kachina figures and inscribed, "Sterling 14k" with a partial maker's mark; a signed sterling and 14kt yellow gold bear pendant on a sterling and 14kt necklace - stamped, "14K Sterling JT"; a watch band with sterling and gold-filled terminals; a signed Virgina sterling and gold-filled cuff bracelet with floral decoration - stamped verso, "Sterling 1/20 12K G. F. Virginia"; a signed sterling and gold-filled pendant with applied bear suspended from a sterling chain - pendant is stamped verso, "Sterling 1/20 12K G. F. RJ"; a signed sterling and gold-filled pendant with applied horse - stamped verso, "Sterling 1/20 12k G. F. RJ"; a signed sterling and gold-filled pendant with applied Kachina figure suspended from a sterling mariner's link chain - pendant is stamped verso, "1/2012k G. F. Sterling RJ"; a ladies watch with sterling shoulders inlaid with faux diamonds - stamped to underside of shoulders, "Sterling RB"; a ladies watch with watch band comprised of signed 14kt gold and inlaid stone shoulders - stamped, "J. Nelson 14K"; a watch with gold-filled shoulders inlaid with turquoirse and coral - stamped verso, "1/20 12kt G. F. ; a men's watch with sterling and gold-filled shoulder to band - stamped verso, "1/20 12K G. F. Sterling"; a men's watch with sterling and gold-filled shoulders decorated with bears; and a watch strap with sterling and gold-filled shoulders decorated wtih suns. Total approx. weight of all items is 10. 32 troy oz (gross), excluding the weight of all watches and watch straps. From a Manhattan, NY estate. Dimensions: malachite cuff bracelet measures approx. 1" in width. Condition Good, with light surface scratches and minor dings/dents. All watches sold as is.
ROMANO-EGYPTIAN CARTONNAGE MUMMY MASK, EX-CHRISTIE'SIt's not often we start a listing by stating the provenance, but in this case the pedigree is almost as impressive as the piece. Sold - Christies, December 1996; Ex Alan Dershowitz (legal and TV fame) / Carolyn Cohen collection, MA; published (Illustrated on the cover) in 2013 - Art of the Ancients, Aphrodite Ancient Art; featured - Pawn Stars, History Channel, August 14, 2017.
Egypt, Romano Egyptian Period, ca. 2nd century CE. A stunning mummy mask made from gesso-lined linen called cartonnage depicting the elegant visage of a youthful female. Presented in vibrant polychrome, the serene woman peers forward with almond eyes, elongated outer canthi, and sweeping brows lined with thick lashes, her head extending outwards and slightly downwards in a manner consistent with "Egyptian Group" masks. Full lips outlined with red pigment, a slender nose, and a rounded chin further emphasize her feminine grace, all beneath a headdress that rests low along the forehead. Dense decorations in traditional Egyptian stylization further embellish her timeless beauty. Size: 5.25" L x 13.625" W x 18.75" H (13.3 cm x 34.6 cm x 47.6 cm); 20.125" H (51.1 cm) on included custom stand.
The top of her head just in front of her diadem bears a red band containing a blue scarab flanked by a pair of segmented columns, 2 seated deities of unknown identity, an additional pair of columns, and 2 wadjet eyes. Beneath a curving brown band is a white-ground panel featuring a central sun disc with dangling triangular ornamentation - perhaps representing lotus blooms - flanked by the goddess sisters Isis and Nephthys as well as 2 papyrus columns and a pair of unidentified zoomorphic funerary deities holding their arms towards the sun. Outlining her head is a grand diadem bearing a plaited pattern above horizontal stripes in red and green, the midsections dotted with lotus buds, the terminals with recessed pink rosettes, and a pair of uraeus cobras emanating out from either side of a sun disc on the front. The upper corners show columns of polychrome panels, 2 panels containing a mummiform Osiris wearing an Atef crown and Horus or Ra in mummiform donning the Pschent crown. Stretching across the brow are 2 sphinxes atop column capitals as well as images of the ibis-headed god Thoth wearing an Atef crown, a left-facing human deity with a sun disc resting between a pair of horns; beneath this decorative register is a right-facing procession of royal uraei. Below the cobras are 2 windows each showing the sisters Isis and Nephthys anointing the body of the mummiform god Osiris beside sections of blue, pink, and white segmentation. Further below are 2 columns showing a rosette, a wadjet eye, and a recumbent Anubis jackal holding a pesesh-kef - a tool used during a ceremony known as the "opening of the mouth" - along with the body of the deceased resting atop a leonine-form embalming table and 2 sets of the 4 Sons of Horus wearing blue headdresses. An additional pair of sphinxes and a pair of Horus falcons with outstretched wings lie below the funerary fraternities, and an inverted T-shaped panel of triangles, petite floral beads, blue stripes, diagonal striations on a pink ground, checkerboarding, and additional painted beadwork completes the elaborate and visually dazzling composition. The verso of the mask shows the beige, khaki, and brown-hued linen framework that has been impregnated with bituminous material to solidify the linen as well as create a general likeness of the deceased that would hold for eons to come. One lower section even shows a plaster patch job that was included to perhaps fix a hole or abrasion made by the embalmer.
Given the size of both the sarcophagus mask itself as well as the interior head cavity, this was likely made for a young woman from a prominent, middle-to-upper-class family. While gilding was a popular decorative element for later Egyptian sarcophagi, embellishing with gold was reserved solely for those who could afford such luxuries. The lack of gilding on this example would perhaps indicate the somewhat lower status of this individual's family, however the artistry, polychrome pigments, and overall elevated craftsmanship suggests that perhaps the deceased was someone who favored substance rather than superficiality with their religious or spiritual ideals.
The use of cartonnage in the Ptolemaic and later Romano-Egyptian periods signified a transitional time in Egyptian funerary techniques from using a full, multi-part sarcophagus for the deceased to using fewer materials but with all the same decorative panache. These cartonnage masks, according to Egyptologists Dr. Salima Ikram and Dr. Aidan Dodson, "…are a reflection of a trend for the mummy to become free-standing, perhaps housed in a rectangular wooden sarcophagus, but without an intervening anthropoid coffin. This development came to fruition during the succeeding Roman Period which saw a range of outer treatments, some broadly maintaining earlier principles, while others diverged widely, although remaining true to basic concepts. The fundamental division is between mummies that conformed to a traditionally-derived 'Egyptian Group', and a 'Roman Group', which incorporated elements grounded in Classical art." They continue on to explain how, "The [Egyptian Group] continued with the use of separate cartonnage helmet-masks, together with other foot and body adornments in the same material. Distinctive points, however, are the head which was somewhat raised and angled forward…As time passed, masks took on a less 'Egyptian' look. A Hellenistic style prevailed in the area of the head and shoulders, while traditional Egyptian vignettes and ornamentation remained around the sides and crown of the head." (Ikram, Salima and Aidan Dodson. "The Mummy in Ancient Egypt: Equipping the Dead for Eternity." Thames & Hudson, London, 1998, pp. 187-188)
Published in "Art of the Ancients: A Selection of Ancient Art." Aphrodite Ancient Art, New York, Vol. 1, 2013, pp. 8-9 and front cover
Cf. Ikram, Salima and Aidan Dodson. "The Mummy in Ancient Egypt: Equipping the Dead for Eternity." Thames & Hudson, London, 1998, p. 187, fig. 218 and p. 188, figs. 220 & 221; The Walters Art Museum, accession number 78.3
A similar mask with gilding and fewer decorations from the 1st century CE hammered for $55,000 at Christie's, New York "Antiquities" auction (Live auction 1915, December 6, 2007, lot 35).
Provenance: ex-private Las Vegas, Nevada, USA collection; ex-Gold and Silver Pawn Store, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA, acquired 2016. As see on Pawn Stars, "If the Pawn Don't Fit" (History Channel, August 14, 2017, season 14, episode 28); ex-Aphrodite Ancient Art, New York, New York, USA, published in "Art of the Ancients: A Selection of Ancient Art," Vol. 1, 2013, pp. 8-9 and front cover; ex-collection of Alan Dershowitz and Carolyn Cohen, Chilmark, Massachusetts, USA; ex-Christie's, New York "Antiquities" auction (auction 8568, December 18, 1996, lot 82, hammered for $9,775, published in corresponding catalog)
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.
Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.
#170552
Condition:
Obverse gesso layer repaired from dozens of small pieces with restoration and new material to missing areas, and resurfacing with extensive overpainting across new material and break lines; the linen layer on the verso is intact albeit with some plaster patches placed in antiquity given the desiccated nature. Losses around most peripheral areas, with fading and heavy overpainting to pigment, with light abrasions, and softening to some finer raised details. Verso also shows some dark bituminous resin used to stabilize the form of the linens. Beautiful remains of original pigment, iconography, and facial details.
A fine Louis XVI style gilt bronze porcelain plaque mounted mahogany cabinet à bijoux
first half 19th century
The square top with canted corners and coved edge mounted with gilt bronze entrelac banding centering an inset porcelain plaque with bleu celeste outer border, gilt inner border and painted with a loose arrangement of garden flowers including rose, convolvulus, lily and ranunculus, over a case inset on each side with smaller porcelain plaques within chased diagonal banded gilt bezel within a raised panel with beaded edge, the corners mounted with patera. Each plaque centering a trophy, the first, emblematic of strength and prudence, with a hissing snake entwined around a wooden club, a golden dressing mirror, spear and sword draped with a tasseled rope, embellished with berried laurel and floral sprays; the second trophy emblematic of love with a quiver of arrows with ribbon bandolier, winged flambeau, two arrows, floral wreath and berried laurel; the third musical trophy with a golden lyre, trumpet, palm frond, a score of open music, floral sprays and berried laurel; the fourth also a musical trophy of a cornemuse, recorder, walking stick and floral sprays. Each coved corner with guilloche mounts; the cabinet door opening to three brass line inlaid drawers each centering a laurel wreath pull. The reverse of the cabinet door also with brass inlay. The paneled coffer base mounted with gilt bronze ribbon bound fluted banding, the corners mounted with paterae, raised on rectangular tapering legs mounted with delicate ribband and bead banding headed by leaf tip collars, ending in tapering sabots on compressed spherules; bearing stamp underneath the front rail: M. Carlin JME.
height 29in (73.5cm); width 9½in (24cm); depth 9¼in (23.5cm); height of leg 17½in (45cm); diameter of top plaque 5½in (14cm); diameter of side plaques 3½in (9cm)
18TH C. SPANISH COLONIAL SILVERED SPURS W/ BOARS TUSKSNorth America, Mexico, Spanish Colonial period, ca. late 18th to early 19th century CE. A wonderful set of matching spurs forged from carbon-steel with curved bands and intricate rowels. The openwork bands are adorned with floral motifs on the bodies, terminals bearing both circular and floral attachment buttons, and an incised strap tube beneath each button. The protruding arms on each depict a tusked boar holding a pin in its mouth, and a sixteen-pronged rowel spins within its housing. Each spur, save for inside the curved band, is overlaid with fine silver (83-94%) that accentuates the incised detailing on each intricate detail. Size of each (both are relatively similar): 6.875" L x 3.2" W (17.5 cm x 8.1 cm); quality of silver: between 83% and 94%.
For two sets of stylistically similar spurs, please see The Metropolitan Museum of Art, accession numbers 15.116.1-.2 and 15.116.3-.4
Provenance: private Glorieta, New Mexico, USA collection, acquired in 2020; ex-private Guanajuato, Mexico, collection
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.
Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.
#154068
Condition:
Both spurs have slight bending to overall forms of curved bands and rowels, with minor softening to some finer details, and fading to small areas of original silver overlay, otherwise intact and excellent. Great patina throughout.
A MAGNIFICENT, PRESENTATION GRADE SWORD OF FRENCH MANUFACTURE, C. 1810-1830 An enigma, this ornate presentation-grade, statue-hilt. : A MAGNIFICENT, PRESENTATION GRADE SWORD OF FRENCH MANUFACTURE, C. 1810-1830 An enigma, this ornate presentation-grade, statue-hilt sword of French manufacture (although previously ascribed by others to England), bears no inscription or any national or even service-related emblems. However, the motifs found on both hilt and blade are strictly martial in nature, so it is doubtful that this sword could be a diplomatic piece; if not presented as some high token of esteem or for an act of valor, it might be a sword that a high-ranking officer might acquire for court appearances and other ceremonies. 38 1/2 in. L overall, with 32 1/2 in. straight, single-edged blade of spadroon form, with wide fullers on each face, extending from the 1 1/4 in. wide ricasso to within an inch of the spearpoint tip. A truly exceptional sword, with a very dramatic gilt-mounted hilt with a pommel consisting of a full lion passant surmounting a tree stump and its sideguard formed of another lion passant in full relief, while the quillon represents a lion charging. The knuckle guard also incorporates a full lion spewing flame from its mouth. The four-panel, mother-of-pearl grip is decorated with ormalu mounts and large, gilded brass cartouches in relief of floral form, on both the outer and inner panels, the top and bottom panels with three grooves running parallel with the blade. The blade, which has a brilliantly blued ground extending 5/8s of its length from the ricasso, is profusely decorated with etched and gilded martial motifs, floral sprays, and on the obverse face the center device consists of a martial panoply of arms, with a shield at center bearing a lion passant. Below that is a figure of a helmeted warrior with shield, that appears to be a Goth or Gaul. On the recto is a central device of a figure that appears to be an armed and helmeted Athena, above which is a panoply of arms flanking a pike with banner, upon which is a Phrygian cap. The scabbard is made of leather covered in royal blue velvet, the pile of which is worn off to a large degree, with elaborate, figured mounts all bearing lions in various poses in gilded brass, consisting of throat, middle band and drag; there are suspension rings on the throat and middle band. The sword is reminiscent of some of the presentation swords of the 1st Empire, but more likely fabricated during the early Restoration period. The questions remain: for whom and for what purpose? Regardless, it was undoubtedly made for a major event, important purpose or personage, as the quality of craftsmanship throughout is exceptional. Provenance: donated to the Society of the Cincinnati in 1966 by Alexander F. Anderson. Property of the Society of the Cincinnati, Washington, DC Condition All lots are sold "AS IS" The condition of lots can vary widely and are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. *No credit card payments will be accepted for silver, gold, or jewelry from buyers that have not purchased from our gallery in the past.
The Pelham Water Buffalo
An Exceptional Chinese Imperial Spinach-Green Jade Water Buffalo with a Fine Gilt Bronze Stand.
Qing Dynasty, Qianlong Period 1736-95, 20.8cm long.
Description
The recumbent beast with a serene mildly inquisitive expression, carved from a massive spinach-green boulder; is depicted with his head turned and raised to the right, his facial features with flaring nostrils and alert eyes, framed by horns curling back to his spine, the trumpet-shaped ears and horns finely incised with lines depicting the fur, his dewlap beneath the neck naturalistically carved flowing down to the base, the form of the body accentuated by the superbly defined spine extending to the tail that curls above his hind leg, all four hooves boldly carved on the underside. The gilt bronze base incised with flowers and foliage to the surface above a key fret band bearing a four character Qianlong mark. A narrow band of scrolling flowers and foliage dividing elaborated stylized lappets and with a second key fret band at the foot.
Paper label for John Sparks Ltd. 128 Mount Street London. And another inscribed 'The property of Sackville, 5th. Earl of Yarborough'.
Provenance
Purchased from John Sparks Ltd. 24th June 1938 for £300. Listed in the Sparks archive as "No. 2988 - 1 v.fine green jade Buffalo, gilt stand, Ming".
The property of the late Sackville George Pelham, the 5th Earl of Yarborough, d.1948, and thence by descent.
Sackville George Pelham, 5th Earl of Yarborough, MC (17 December 1888 -7 February 1948) was a British peer and soldier, known as Lord Worsley from 1914-1926 and Lord Conyers from 1926 until his accession to the earldom in 1936. Pelham was the second son of Charles Pelham, 4th Earl of Yarborough and his wife, Marcia. In 1910, he became a Second Lieutenant in the 11th Hussars and initially fought as a lieutenant in France during World War I before being promoted to the rank of captain in 1916. During the war his elder brother, Charles, was killed in action and Sackville assumed the former's courtesy title of Lord Worsley. After the war, he was awarded the Military Cross and retired from the Army in 1919 when he married Nancy Brocklehurst (a niece of Lord Ranksborough).
On the death of his father in 1936, Sackville inherited the earldom; in the same year he commanded the Nottinghamshire Yeomanry as a Lieutenant Colonel, being posted to Palestine at the outbreak of World War II. On returning to Britain in October 1940, the ship carrying the Earl and Countess of Yarborough came under enemy fire and was sunk. Although most of the passengers and crew survived, the Earl contracted respiratory problems from the smoke, which contributed to his early death in 1948 at the age of 59. His jade buffalo then became the property of his eldest daughter, Lady Diana Miller, who in the same year emigrated to Southern Africa. Whilst the existence of this piece of jade was not in doubt, its whereabouts were subject to some speculation. Many of the Earl’s possessions would appear to have been packed and placed in storage at the outbreak of the Second World War and over the subsequent years some inventory records were mislaid. In 2005 Lady Diana Miller returned to the United Kingdom. A large wooden chest, thought to contain porcelain, was opened in July of that year. Inside, amongst the various items, was found an old wooden box, sealed with rusty nails, string and sealing wax. The box was opened for the first time in 65 years, and inside, carefully wrapped in newspapers dated 1940, were the magnificent jade buffalo and its gilt bronze pedestal.
Catalogue Note
A small number of large jade carvings, mainly of water buffaloes and horses, were included in the Oriental Ceramic Society exhibition Chinese Jade Throughout the Ages, Victoria and Albert Museum, London 1975, cat. Nos.391-7. They are discussed in the accompanying Transactions of the Oriental Ceramics Society, vol.40, 1973-75, p.118, as being:
‘among the most ambitious and monumental examples of jade ever worked in China and perhaps all of them once had their place in the pavilions of the various palaces of Peking.’
Another animal from this series, looted from the Summer Palace Beijing in 1860, and reputedly rescued on the troop ship from a soldier who was trying to destroy it, now in the collection of Sir Joseph Hotung, was included in the exhibition Chinese Jade from the Neolithic to the Qing, The British Museum, London 1995, cat.no..26:19. The Jacob Goldschmidt buffalo was exhibited at the influential Ausstellung Chinesischer Kunst, Gesellschaft für Ostasiatische Kunst and Preußische Akademie der Künste, Berlin, 1929, cat.no.1085. The Oscar Raphael buffalo, now in the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, formed part of the Oriental Ceramic Society exhibition Chinese Jade Throughout the Ages, Victoria and Albert Museum, London, 1975, together with two other jade buffaloes, cat.nos.395-7.
Compare the superb gilt bronze stand with those of a pair of spinach-green jade lion dog censers from the Palace Museum, Beijing, GU103379 and GU103380, illustrated: China The Three Emperors, 1662-1795, no.21.
The Water Buffalo
The water buffalo is the traditional symbol of spring, strength and tranquillity. Its bucolic aspect evokes the simple and true life in the countryside, and as the reputed mount of the philosopher Laozi, the buffalo has strong Daoist connotations. An important animal in all rice cultivation societies, we find buffaloes depicted in art dating back thousands of years. The Chinese practice of lining the shores of lakes and rivers with bronze buffaloes dates from the Tang dynasty. It is based on the belief that Da Yu, the legendary emperor who is credited with founding the Xia dynasty, (circa 2100 – 1600 BC) and controlled China’s floodwaters, used to place iron buffaloes beside each of his projects. The most famous is the bronze example overlooking Lake Kunming in Beijing’s Summer Palace, which was cast and then personally dedicated by The Emperor Qianlong in 1755.
With thanks to Miss Ching-Yi Huang of SOAS for her help in researching the Sparks’ archive.
Three Pieces of Staffordshire Pottery, consisting of an ochre-banded copper lustre pottery footed pitcher, second quarter 19th century, the two ochre bands with stylized foliate decoration in copper luster, h. 5", a diminutive polychromed and pink lustre-banded pottery hound-handled "Stag and Hounds" cream pitcher, first quarter 19th century, the base with a paper sticker bearing a 1926 museum accession number, h. 4", and a Joseph Heath and Company, pale blue transfer-printed ironstone dinner plate, second quarter 19th century, in "Lombardy" decor, the reverse fully marked and bearing a 1929 museum accession number, dia. 10-1/4".
Decorative ArtsFrom the Estate of Phyllis Butterfield
18th century
Each vegetable dish decorated in grisaille and gilt with an interior shield incorporating the monogram 'GFC', surrounded by an egg-and-dart and diaper band below a further diaper border, the cover embellished with two shields, the monogram repeated, enclosed by a further egg-and dart band and an acorn finial, (covers associated), length 11in; the massive platter simply decorated with a central shield bearing the monogram 'DWC', framed by two acanthus branches all under a stippled gilt rim at the cavetto below a sawtooth double-banded pattern at the rim, diameter 20 1/2in
MODEL 1856 LANCER'S CZAPSKA FOR THE 8TH LINE REGIMENT, circa 1856 -1871. Black wool and leather construction piped in red with plume and bearing the cockade; band of red lace and brass plate bearing regimental numeral.
Piping partially detached, missing chin strap, wool top portion with minor losses.
Korean Koryo Pottery Spouted Vessel w/ Turtle Head & TL: **Holiday Shipping Deadlines**. USA Domestic: 12/14 for Standard; 12/23 for Express . International: 12/7 for Standard; 12/19 for Express . . East Asia, Korea, Late Koryo/Goryeo, ca. 14th century CE. A wonderful grey stoneware vessel in the form of a turtle - an animal traditionally associated with longevity and rebirth in Korea. While much Koryo pottery was utilitarian in intent - some pieces possessed more artistic/symbolic intentions, with spouts depicting zoomorphic and anthropomorphic entities. This piece presents a squat ovoid body with an attenuated neck and flared rim atop and a turtle head spout emerging from the side wall, all atop a concave circular foot. The body is finely incised with decorative motifs: a band of nested scallops encircling the upper spout; a register of stylized cloud motifs; a band of concentric circles joined by 'beaded' arches; a register of repeating floral motifs; a register of repeating fin-like motifs; and finally a band of repeating vertical dotted motifs. What's more, the endearing turtle head spout is nicely modeled and detailed with incised eyes and markings to delineate the animal's wrinkly skin. Size: 9" W (from turtle spout) x 5" H (22. 9 cm x 12. 7 cm). . Aside from Chinese stoneware, Korean stoneware from this time period is the oldest known high-fired ware in the world. To make it, Korean artisans had to generate kiln temperatures greater than 1000 Celsius! The characteristic grey color of this vessel and others like it is caused by the reduction of oxygen in the kiln's inner chamber. According to art historian Chewon Kim, "Silla pottery may well be the most genuinely indigenous of all Korean art forms, in spite of the formal influences from outside which were brought to bear upon it. It varies from the near-primitive to the sophisticated, but it invariably has about it a natural quality which bespeaks its specifically Korean origin. " (C. Kim "The Arts of Korea" Thames & Hudson, 1966). . This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full report will accompany purchase. . . Provenance: Estate of William Stockton, Colorado, USA; acquired between July 20, 1966 and January 7, 1974 while Mr. Stockton was stationed in Okinawa, Japan. During this period he traveled primarily to Korea, but also to Japan, Vietnam, and other countries in Southeast Asia. . All items legal to buy/sell under U. S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. . . A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. . We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience. . #150581 Condition Turtle head spout has been reattached. Minute nicks to peripheries of spouts and base. Normal surface wear commensurate with age. Nice earthen/mineral deposits. Tiny TL hole on base.