Catalog (2409)

An impressive and well-designed antique Bohemian glass paperweight. The bullet-shaped weight encloses a large central red, white and blue lily surrounded by three smaller lilies, all emanating from a speckled glass pot at the base. The area just above the pot has a thin film of green glass to suggest foliage. The weight is ornately faceted into a bullet-shape. The glass is quite heavy and clear. The coloring tends toward grayish-yellow, as is typical of Bohemian weights of the period.

Origin: Bohemia, ca. 1870. Condition: excellent, no chips, no wear to crown. Size: 7" tall; 2-25/32" diameter.

A wonderful and extremely rare Victorian 15K rose gold brooch set with Scottish agate. The brooch is in the form of the 19th century Prince of Wales’ crown enclosing the traditional feathers in fleur-de-lys arrangement, over a banner with the legend “Ich Dien”. The feathers are set with jasper and bloodstone. The engraved decoration of the gold is first-rate. The back bears a registry mark, dating the brooch to 1891. In 1891, Queen Victoria’s eldest son, the future Edward VII, celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of his investitute as Prince of Wales. Due to his mother’s longevity, however, Edward was the first Prince of Wales to reach that mark. Agate jewelry set in gold is quite uncommon, and this is the only example we’ve found of this particular design. Tested and guaranteed 15K.

Origin: England, 1891. Condition: excellent, all original. Size: 1-5/16” x 1-1/4”. Weight: 6.0 grams.

A very rare sterling silver chamber stick in a repousse floral pattern by Shiebler. The overall floral decoration depicts buds and full-blown rose blossoms against a background of leaves. Areas between the leaves are finished with a stippled texture. The knop of the candle socket and the bobeche are plain and make a nice contrast to the elaborate decoration. The thumbpiece is accented with a fan-shaped element that is suggestive of Shiebler’s more Aesthetic-style pieces. The bottom of the bobeche is stamped with Shiebler’s hallmark, the pattern number 1174, and the retailer’s mark “J. E. Caldwell & Co.”

Origin: America, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent, a small rim ding and a couple of pinpoints on the bobeche. Size: 6” diameter; 3-1/2” tall. Weight: 211.0 grams.

An uncommon set of six nut picks, the mother of pearl handles attached to the silverplate picks with sterling silver ferules. The ferules are decorated with ropetwist borders flanking an ornate acanthus leaf pattern. In the Victorian era, fresh nuts would have been served alongside and cheese and fruit as a dessert course. The ferules are marked "Sterling".

Most sterling silver flatware services before 1900 had mother of pearl cutlery instead of knives that matched the rest of the service. Mother of pearl pieces such as a nut picks are considerable less common than knives.

Origin: America, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent, no plating loss. Size: 5-1/4".

A pretty 18Kyellow gold pin in the shape of a salamander from the reign of Emperor Napoleon III. Animal brooches were very popular in the mid-19th century, and reptiles were especially favored. The salamander has a long history in France, and was the personal symbol of King François whose rule began in the late 15th century. This example is beautifully engraved with delicate scales, claws, and eyes. The back is set with a line of alternating seed pearls and Persian turquoise cabochons. The head is set with a larger turquoise. The original clasp is marked with the “tête de cheval” hallmark used only outside Paris between 1838 and 1919.

Origin: France, ca. 1850. Condition: excellent. Size: 1-7/16” long. Weight: 3.5 grams.

A fine bronze animalier sculpture by Ferdinand Pautrot (1832-74). The figure represents a pair of songbirds, one of which has caught a fly in its mouth. The other bird appears to be contemplating the possibility of wresting the insect from his companion. Both birds are perched on the rocky ground typical of Pautrot's work. An upright flowering plant appears at one end of the composition. Along with Mène and Moigniez, Pautrot was considered the be France's finest sculptor of animal figures. He first successfully participated in the Paris Salon of 1861 (three entries) and continued to exhibit until 1870. The details of the feathers are stunning and absolutely realistic in appearance. The rocky ground is signed "F. Pautrot". The figure retains its original medium brown patina with light gilt touches.

Origin: France, ca. 1865. Condition: excellent, original patina, built-up dust that could be cleaned if desired. Size: 6-1/4" x 3-1/4 x 6-1/2" tall.

Artist References: Benezit, "Dictionnaire des Peintres et Sculpteurs"; Lami, "Dictionnaire de Sculpteurs de l'ecole Francaise"; Kjellberg, "Bronzes of the 19th Century"; Savage, "A Concise History of Bronzes"; Payne, "Animals in Bronze"; Horswell, "Les Animaliers"; and Mackay, "Les Animaliers".

A fine, large bronze animalier sculpture by Ferdinand Pautrot (1832-74). The figure represents a pair of pheasants, one perched on a gnarled barren branch while the other appears to strut along the ground. The body position of the lower bird gives the composition a great deal of movement that is often missing in classical animalier bronzes. The ground is covered in long grass that is somewhat less common than Pautrot's more characteristic rocky ground. Along with Mène and Moigniez, Pautrot was considered the be France's finest sculptor of animal figures. He first successfully participated in the Paris Salon of 1861 (three entries) and continued to exhibit until 1870. The details of the feathers are stunning and absolutely realistic in appearance. The ground is signed "F. Pautrot". The figure retains its original medium brown patina with light gilt touches.

Origin: France, ca. 1865. Condition: excellent, original patina, built-up dust that could be cleaned if desired. Size: 7-1/2" x 3-1/2 x 9-1/4" tall.

Artist References: Benezit, "Dictionnaire des Peintres et Sculpteurs"; Lami, "Dictionnaire de Sculpteurs de l'ecole Francaise"; Kjellberg, "Bronzes of the 19th Century"; Savage, "A Concise History of Bronzes"; Payne, "Animals in Bronze"; Horswell, "Les Animaliers"; and Mackay, "Les Animaliers".

An oustanding sterling silver centerpiece basket by Gorham. The sides and handle are decorated with extremely ornate bright-cut engraving in a swirling foliate pattern. The motif is repeated to great effect in the gilt feet that raise up the basket. The intersection of the handle and feet is finished with an applied classical lion mask. The surfaces are finished in an acid-finished matte texture. The reeded border and the feet are enhanced with matte gilding, while the interior is finished with highly polished gilding. The centerpiece is an excellent example of Gorham's work for an elite market in the years immediately following the Civil War. The bottom is stamped with Gorham's hallmark, the date mark for 1871, and with Gorham's retail location at Union Square in New York.

Origin: America, 1871. Condition: very good, the interior has some small dings and light wear to the gilding visible in raking light only when the centerpiece is empty. Weight: 737.0 grams. Size: 7-1/4" x 10-1/4" x 8-1/4" tall.

A very nice 19th century Mexican tin retablo illustrating “El Nino de Atocha”. According to tradition, Christ appeared in the guise of a small child to feed the hungry Christian prisoners of the town of Atocha during the Moorish invasion of Spain. The retablo illustrates the boy wearing his traditional garb and carrying his usual water gourd on the end of a staff and a food basket. Bouquets of flowers are arranged at his feet. Interestingly, the staff and basket are shown in the opposite hands from their original arrangement and the boy is seen standing rather than sitting. The pouty appearance of the mouth suggest that this retablo might be by the “bee-stung mouth” artist, though the relative simplicity of the design would make it among his earlier works. The heavy-lidded treatment of the eyes is also characteristic of the Red Bole Group, with which the artist is often associated. The retablo retains the original welded hook on the back side, and a collector’s label stating “Santo Nino de Atocha”.

Origin: Mexico, ca. 1840. Condition: excellent, very light scattered paint nicks to front, no rust. Size: 6-3/4” x 10”.

An extraordinarily fine antique 18K yellow gold ring by Tiffany & Co. set with a mixed cushion cut Burmese blue sapphire surrounded by old mine cut diamonds. All the gems are of the finest quality. The sapphire has been certified by the American Gemological Laboratories (see the following paragraph). The diamonds, ranging in size from approximately .22 carat to .29 carat each, are estimated at G/H color and SI to VVS2 clarity. The sapphire is set in a prong setting, while the diamonds are set in a shared-prong setting that creates a filigree appearance around the back of the crown. The shoulders of the shank are lightly decorated with beaded engraving.

Nearly all sapphires marketed in the last 150 years have been heated to improve the color. This is considered a standard practice. Other treatments, such as filling in fractures, altering the color family, etc., though considered bad practice, are nonetheless quite common. Fine Burmese stones from the Mogok region that have not been treated in any way are exceedingly rare and only show up in upscale jewels from makers such as Tiffany and Cartier. This particular stone, with its bright coloring and beautiful cut, is nothing short of stunning.

The AGL Brief (dated April 2008) indicates that the sapphire is natural; displays specific properties and characteristics associated with stones from Burma; measures 7.39 x 6.69 x 5.82 mm; weighs 2.49 carats; is cut in mixed cushion, has blue color, and shows no heat or additional treatments. The brief further indicates that unheated sapphires are scarce. The original brief will accompany the ring.

Origin: America, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent, all original, interior of shank has a period monogram. Finger Size: 4-1/4 (The ring can be sized up and we would recommend that the work be performed by Tiffany). Weight: 6.0 grams. Gemstone Weight: diamond (estimated by measurement), 2.25 carats; sapphire (by actual weight), 2.49 carats.

A delightful Victorian reverse carved crystal pendant set in 12K yellow gold. The pendant depicts a Yorkshire terrier (Yorkie). He’s beautifully and deeply carved and painted in shades of brown and cream. The texture of his fur comes across very nicely in the design. The dog wears a blue ribbon around his neck and displays quite a lot of character with a bit of tongue sticking out to one side and one drooping ear. The crystal is backed in gold rather than the mother of pearl that typically appears in later crystals. The pendant is bordered with a double ropetwist border. Tested and guaranteed 12K gold.

Origin: England, ca. 1870. Condition: excellent, all original, no moisture damage. Size: 1-1/4” x 7/8” excluding bail.

A very fine Victorian silver plated flip-top card case, both sides heavily decorated with nautical themes. The front features a scene of a sloop in roiling waves passing a lighthouse in the background. The scene is surrounded by a border of seashells and seaweed, and a bare-breasted mermaid watches from one of the lower corners. The back of the is decorated in a pattern of waterlilies and foliage. The detail in the design is superb--one can even just make out the stars and stripes of the ship's American flag. The case is fitted with two pairs of loops so is can be worn suspended from a heavy chain.

Origin: America, ca. 1890. Condition: some plating wear along the edge near one of the chain loops and an area of dings on the bottom edge; the design areas are all in excellent condition. Size: 2-2/1" x 3-3/4" x 3/8".

A very fine French Belle Epoque 18K yellow gold brooch set with diamonds, blue sapphires and demantoid garnets around a central sugarloaf cabochon 3.59-carat peridot. The demantoids exhibit the desirable horsetail inclusions characteristic of Russian stones. The combination of blue sapphires and the bright grassy green of the demantoids and peridot is very pleasing. All the smaller stones are old mine cuts. Six small rose-cut diamonds are collet-set in silver. The back retains the original c-clasp and extended pinstem which is fully stamped with French "tete d'aigle" hallmarks for 18K gold and with an illegible goldsmith's mark.

Origin: France, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent, all original. Size: 2" x 19/32". Weight: 6.8 grams. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: diamond, .15 carat; sapphire, .4 carat; demantoid, .46 carat; peridot, 3.59 carats.

A good, small-size 19th century Mexican retablo depicting San Jeronimo. After a spiritual revelation, the saint lived as a hermit, often flagellating himself with a scourge and beating himself with rocks. He is shown here his traditional attributes of penitence--the bloody scourge, a skull, and rocks. He is often shown with fresh self-inflicted wounds, in this case a spray of blood droplets from his chest. San Jeronimo was the first to translate the Hebrew text of the Old Testament into Latin and is considered one of the four most learned founders of the Catholic church. The retablo also shows an open book to symbolize his efforts. A trumpet blasts into the saint's ear as a reminder of his spiritual awakening. And finally, a peaceful lion crouches next to the saint. This example is well-painted in muted colors that contrast nicely with the bright orangey-red color of the saint's cloak. Images of San Jeronimo were popular throughout Mexico, but it is estimated that he appears in less than 4% of all retablos.

Origin: Mexico, ca. 1880. Condition: excellent, no paint loss. Size: 5-3/8" x 7-3/8".

A very colorful 19th century Mexican retablo depicting a scene called "L'Alegoria de la Redencion." The composition depicts the elongated body of the crucified Christ spanning Heaven and Hell. God, making the sign of blessing and the Holy Spirit (in the form of a dove) watch from the upper section, while condemned souls in supplication watch from the flames of Hell at the bottom. Interestingly, the artist depicted one of the condemned souls as a Cardinal, indentifiable by his red cap. Mary watches the scene from one side, while the archangel Michael holds a balance in which he weighs the souls of sinners. Both Mary and Michael represent intercessory figures to whom one can pray for the salvation of loved ones. At either end of the arms of the cross, the sun and moon are shown against a starry sky. This represents the darkening of the sky at the moment of Jesus' death. The figures, especially that of Christ, are well-formed and colorfully painted.

Origin: Mexico, ca. 1860. Condition: very good overall, paint wear along edges and a candle burn on the left edge near Mary, normal bending of tin and a notched corner at upper right. Size: 10" x 14".

A very fine Victorian 14K gold stickpin, the head set with a round hardstone cameo depicting a pheasant. The cameo is worked in banded white and brown agate. The carving shows a pheasant running along the ground amidst underbrush, and has superb detail. Tested and guaranteed 14K.

Origin: America, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent, some waviness to pin shaft, no damage to cameo. Size: overall length, 2-13/16”; head, 13/16” diameter. Weight: 4.0 grams.

An elegant sterling silver trumpet vase with an opaque glass liner by either Jenkins or Armiger for F. Bucher & Sons. This silver is ornately decorated wthroses, forget-me-nots, wild roses, chamomiles and daises against a stippled background. Bucher was a retailer who stamped wares with his own mark, even though they were actually made by Jenkins, Armiger, Schofield or other leading Baltimore silversmiths of the day. The treatment of the chamomile blossoms and the use of cyma scrolls in the narrow borders are distinctly similar to Jenkins’ work, but the use of ferns amongst the foliage is more often seen in Armiger’s. The liner is opaque white glass with a translucent pink border at the undulating, flaring rim, and appears to be original. The base is marked “F. Bucher & Sons. Sterling”.

Origin: America, ca. 1900. Condition: excellent, sharp detail. Size: 10-3/8” tall. Silver Weight: 161.4 grams.

A very good Classic Period glass paperweight with a pinchbeck design. The scene depicts the "Descent from the Cross" and shows two centurions, Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus taking the body from the cross while Mary weeps at Jesus' feet. The pinchbeck insert is finished in a silver tone rather than the more common gold. The crystal dome is of very good quality, with excellent clarity and good optical magnification to highlight the detail of the scene. The bottom of the weight retains its original red and gilt-painted decoration.

Origin: England or Continental Europe, ca. 1850. Condition: excellent, light surface scratching at the top of the crown. Size: 2-5/16" diameter; 1-1/4" high.

A very good sterling silver wine bottle or decanter coaster by Gorham. The flared lip is heavily decorated with a floral scrolled border in the Rococo style. The repousse decoration is finely done. The bottom of the coaster is fully hallmarked with one of the older Gorham hallmarks, the design copyright date 1889, the pattern number 325 and the date symbol for 1891.

Origin: America, 1891. Condition: excellent, one pinpoint ding visible on very close inspection, no monogram. Size: 6-3/4" diameter. Weight: 135.6 grams.

A very attractive pair of Victorian beanback cufflinks, the oval faces set with with pyrope-almandite garnet cabochons. The gemstones have a much brighter red coloring than many garnets. The gold settings are decorated with foliate scrolled borders. The backs of the faces are marked “14K”.

Origin: America, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent. Size: 9/16” x 7/16”. Weight: 5.0 grams. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: 5.0 carats.

A superb pair of mid-19th century 18K yellow gold, silver and platinum cufflinks set with diamonds and sapphires. The square faces feature collet-set old mine cut diamonds centering intricately pierced quatrefoil motifs bead-set with rose cut diamonds in silver. Rows of channel-set square sapphires radiate outward from the center diamonds toward the rounded corners of the faces. The center diamonds are approximately .2 carats each, are estimated at H/I color and SI2 clarity, and are set in silver as was the custom in jewelry of the era. The natural sapphires have vivid slightly greenish-blue to violet-blue color, and show no signs of treatment. The workmanship of the faces is very fine, with high quality beading, hand-sawn piercing and double-gallery construction. The faces are attached by gold chains to gold and platinum torpedo backs. Tested and guaranteed 18K gold, silver and platinum.

Ca. 1850. Condition: excellent. Size: 9/16” x 9/16”. Weight: 7.4 grams. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: diamond, .96 carat; sapphire, .34 carat.

A nice Victorian 14K yellow gold locket, the front cover enhanced with a three-dimensional Scottish halberd (a medieval battle axe) applique set with rose cut diamonds and a Persian turquoise cabochon. The Scottish halberd was a distinctive sort of battle axe developed in Scotland in the late 16th century which eventually came to be associated with ceremonial use by the Scottish nobility. During Queen Victoria’s reign, everything Scottish became very popular, and ancient designs such as this appeared in fashionable jewelry. This is quite an unusual design for a locket and it very rare. The locket retains its original frames and glass covers. The back cover has a period three-letter monogram “LML” (?). Tested and guaranteed 14K.

Origin: America, ca. 1870. Condition: excellent, all original. Size: 1” diameter. Weight: 7.0 grams.

A lovely Art Nouveau 14K yellow gold medallion pin depicting Hamlet’s beloved Ophelia (the brooch uses the French spelling “Ophelie”) surrounded by cattails, willow branches and waterlilies, all symbols of her watery grave after she was spurned by Hamlet. Her hair is studded with small old mine cut diamonds. The back has a hook that would have been used to suspend a watch. The back retains the original c-clasp (marked 14K) and extended pinstem. Unlike most Art Nouveau medallion pins, this example is not hollow and is heavy. This design was created by the French jeweler Emile-Séraphin Vernier (1852-1927) and was introduced at the 1908 Exposition de la Parure de la Femme in Paris.

Origin: America, ca. 1900. Condition: excellent, sharp detail. Size: 1” diameter. Weight: 7.4 grams. Approximate Total Diamond Weight: .1 carat.

An outstanding Art Nouveau 14K yellow gold locket, the front cover decorated in with an ornate pond scene incorporating rippling water, waterlilies and cattails under the watchful eye of the “man in the moon” and seed pearl stars. The scene is very original and is beautifully worked. The back cover has a period three-letter monogram “GEG”. The interior retains both original frames and one of the glass covers. Marked “14K”.

Origin: America, ca. 1900. Condition: excellent, sharp detail, no dings. Size: 1-1/16” diameter (excluding bail). Weight: 7.9 grams.

A very nice Imperial Russian enameled silver spoon by Gustav Klingert. The bowl is beautifully decorated in five shades of opaque cloisonné enamels and in translucent red and amethyst. The design I modified floral pattern with a Persian-style reserve. The handle is finished in a fish-scale enameled pattern. Exposed areas of silver are stippled and gilt. The interior of the bowl is engraved “Moscow”, indicating that the spoon was sold as a souvenir to an American or English visitor. The handle is fully hallmarked with the city mark for Moscow and Klingert’s maker’s mark. The date mark is obscured, but the assay master Lev Oleks was active only between 1890 and 1896.

Origin: Moscow, 1890-96. Condition: excellent, no enamel damage, gilding intact. Size: 4-7/32” long. Weight: 15.9 grams.

A fine pair of French Art Nouveau 18K yellow gold cufflinks, the double faces in the form of snarling mythological griffins. The details are beautifully worked. Mythological beasts such as griffins, dragons and sphinxes were especially popular in Art Nouveau jewels by French makers. Each cufflink has one face that is smaller than the other so that it can more easily be slipped through the cuff hole. Each cufflink is hallmarked with the French “tete d’aigle”stamp for 18K.

Origin: France, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent. Size: full faces, 17/32” diameter; smaller faces, 17/32” x 7/16”. Weight: 8.0 grams.

A lovely pair of imperial Russian spoons, the backs of the bowls decorated with finely engraved scenes depicting portions of the Arsenal and the State Historical Museum on Moscow’s Red Square. The handles are finished in the traditional twist motif. The surfaces are gilt, and the engraving is worked through the gilding in some areas and more lightly in others, allowing a nice contrast of colors within the design. Each is fully hallmarked for Moscow, dated 1889 and with the maker’s mark for Ivan Alexeyev (1876-1912).

Origin: Moscow, 1889. Condition: excellent, gilding intact. Size: 5” long. Weight: 27.2 grams (the pair).

A beautiful French silver-topped 18K yellow gold floral pin from the era of Emperor Napoleon III. The pin is designed as a spray of three flower buds, each just about to open into a different color. The flowers are bead-set with rose cut diamonds, and the colors are represented by rows of cushion and round cut sapphires, rubies and emeralds. Each bud is centered by a larger rectangular cushion cut diamond set in prongs. A pair of diamond-set leaves and a small diamond-set bud appear below. The bottom of the sprig is also bead-set with diamonds. The top surfaces of the gold are covered in silver to heighten the appeal of the diamonds, in keeping with the mid-19th century practice. Realistic floral spray jewelry became very popular because of the extraordinary pieces commissioned by the Empress Eugenie from Bapst. The back retains the original c-clasp and extended pinstem (stamped with the French “tete d’aigle” hallmark for 18K gold).

Origin: France, ca. 1850. Condition: excellent, all original. Size: 1-3/4” x 1-3/16”. Weight: 7.0 grams. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: diamond, .981 carat; sapphire, .126 carat; ruby, .147 carat; emerald, .085 carat.

A very attractive pair of Victorian 14K yellow gold bean-back cufflinks finished in the softly bloomed “Russian” finish popular in pieces from the Art Nouveau era. The oval faces are simply finished with a beaded border and are star-set with small round brilliant cut rhodolite garnets. The stones have a very pleasing strongly purplish-red hue, easily mistaken for ruby. The backs are marked “14K”.

Origin: America, ca. 1900. Condition: excellent. Size: 3/4” x 9/16”. Weight: 6.8 grams.

A very attractive pair of Napoleon III 18K yellow gold cufflinks, the canted square faces studded with round mixed-cut rubies and old mine cut diamonds. The rubies are in the finest color-range, with strongly saturated, very slightly purplish-red hue. The nature of the inclusions in the stones suggests they are Burmese in origin. The diamonds are of similarly fine quality. The gold surface has a very subtle texturizing treatment that suggests moiré silk. The connectors are marked with a variety of French 18K hallmarks, including that of the guarantee office in Nancy and the “tete de Mercure” mark used 1840-1879.

Origin: France, ca. 1870. Condition: excellent. Size: 1/2” x 1/2”. Weight: 10.4 grams. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: ruby, .128 ct; diamond, .112 ct.

A superb pair of late Victorian 14K yellow gold double-faced cufflinks, each face set with a carnelian cabochon. The settings are in a style combining both Aesthetic and Architectural Revival elements. The gold surfaces, worked in the matte Russian finish often seen in Art Nouveau jewels, contrasts beautifully with the rich rust colors of the carnelians. Tested and guaranteed 14K.

Origin: America, ca. 1870. Condition: excellent, all original. Size: 9/16” diameter. Weight: 9.5 grams. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: 8.0 carats.

A stunning pair of Victorian 18K yellow gold double-faced cufflinks, each face comprising a large oval mixed-cut rhodolite garnet set in a foliate-engraved border. The garnets have the lovely reddish-purple hue so prized in rhodolites. The faces are connected by chains and are fully hallmarked with French “tete d’aigle” hallmarks for 18K gold.

Origin: France, ca. 1880. Condition: excellent. Size: 19/32” x 7/16”. Weight: 6.6 grams. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: 9.36 carats.

A beautiful Victorian sterling silver souvenir spoon from Saratoga Springs, New York. The handle depicts a Native American Chief wearing a feathered war bonnet, his bust surrounded by ears of corn and foliage. The bowl has a design picturing a young Native American man drinking from the natural springs and bears the legend “High Rock Spring Saratoga”. The bowl retains its original gilt surface. The back of the spoon is decorated with a tomahawk, bow and quiver of arrows. The stem is marked sterling and has the hallmark for Howard (1878-1902).

Origin: America, ca. 1890. Condition: near mint. Size: 4-3/16” long. Weight: 11.4 grams.

A wonderful Art Nouveau stickpin depicting a native American warrior chief in 14K yellow gold. The man’s beautifully detailed face is surrounded by long hair and a feather war bonnet, the band centered by a small bead-set old European cut diamond. A quiver of arrows is slung across the chest. The pin is marked “14K” and has the maker’s mark for Krementz.

Origin: America, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent, sharp details. Size: head, 11/16” x 3/8”; overall length, 2-1/2”. Weight: 1.8 grams.

A fine 18K yellow gold Victorian bracelet in the Etruscan Revival taste. The bracelet comprises ten 7-mm gold beads ornately decorated in twisted wire- and bead-work. Two 8.5-mm beads flank the clasp. The beads are joined by trace link chains, the larger beads being separated at a greater distance from the others. The placement of the hallmarks on the chain segments indicates this is the original design of the bracelet and that it has not been altered. French 18K hallmarks.

Origin: France, ca. 1860. Condition: excellent. Size: 7-1/2". Weight: 6.5 grams.

A very rare set of six sterling silver demitasse spoons in the "Holly & Mistletoe" pattern by Tiffany & Co. This is a more ornate variant of the company's more common "Holly" pattern. The handles are decorated on both sides with holly and mistletoe foliage and mistletoe berries. The elongated bowls have notched shoulders and are parcel-gilt. The spoons are fully hallmarked and have the date letter used 1873-91. The spoons are presented in an old Tiffany flatware bag.

Origin: America, 1873-91. Condition: excellent, sharp detail, original gilding intact. Size: 4-1/8" long. Weight: 86.6 grams.

A very good pair of Victorian 14K yellow gold cufflinks, each face in the form of an owl's head complete with bright ruby eyes. The gold is finely detailed and the rubies are natural and of high quality. Tested and guaranteed 14K.

Origin: America, ca. 1900. Condition: excellent. Size: 1/2" x 1/2". Weight: 6.7 grams.

An outstanding Restoration period French silver wine taster in the 18th century style typical of Lyon. With the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy, many old styles from the ancien regime once again came into fashion, and this tastevin, building on decorative elements typical of the 1770's, is a perfect example. Tastevins with snake-form handles were particularly popular. Those with a pair of snake heads that somewhat resemble bird's heads flanking a sphere are typical of silver from Lyon. The punchwork decoration of grape clusters surrounded the bowl is also a typical 18th century design. The tastevin is completely handmade and was raised on a lathe in the traditional method, as is evidenced by the pinprick in the middle of the bowl and the remnants of hammer marks. The outer rim is engraved "F. Porcheret-Billard". Stamped with 2nd standard "tete de Minverve" hallmarks.

Origin: France, ca. 1840. Condition: excellent, sharp detail. Size: 3-1/2" diameter, excluding handle. Weight: 113.4 grams.

A stunning French 18K yellow gold and diamond pansy brooch in the Art Nouveau taste. The petals are beautifully decorated in translucent enamels shading from silvery white to cream to rose. The outer ruffled edge of each petal is outlined in small rose cut diamonds. The pansy is centered by a larger rose cut diamond of unusually good color and clarity. As is typical of 19th century French jewels, the diamonds are set in silver. Each petal is cast separately and then attached to the others with a screw mechanism. The back has a replaced pinstem and clasp. Tested and guaranteed 18K gold.

Origin: France, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent, one 1/8" area of flaking enamel visible under magnification. Size: 1-1/4" x 1-1/4". Weight: 18.1 grams. Approximate Total Diamond Weight: 1.385 cts.

A fine pair of French Art Nouveau 18K yellow gold cufflinks in the form of sinuously curved griffins. Mythological creatures such as griffins and dragons were a particularly popular subject matter for French jewelers of the era. The creatures are finely worked with excellent detail to the scales and other features. The chain connectors are fully hallmarked with French 18K hallmarks and with an unidentified maker's mark.

Origin: France, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent. Size: 9/16" x 7/16". Weight: 9.5 grams.

An outstanding pair of antique 18K yellow gold cufflinks set with diamonds and rubies in the "Japanesque" style produced by Tiffany & Co. for a very brief period following the opening of Japan to western trade in the 1850s. Pieces in this style were wildly popular and always drew from traditional Japanese natural motifs, in this case chrysanthemum blossoms. Each slightly-domed face is ornately worked in a series of overlapping petals, centering old European cut diamonds and cushion cut rubies. The prongs holding the gemstones are fashioned as tiny flower petals--an element not visible except under magnification. The diamonds are estimated at H color and VS1 clarity, while the rubies are strongly-saturated medium-dark, slightly purplish-red in color. The rubies show no signs of heat treatment and are likely Burmese in origin. The faces are joined by chain links, and the backs are marked "Tiffany & Co." in the old style. Tested and guaranteed 18K.

The chrysanthemum was a symbol reserved exclusively for the use of the Japanese emperor and his immediate family. As a further nod to the Japanesque style, Tiffany chose to use gemstones in shades of red and white--the official colors of the Meiji Imperial dynasty.

Origin: America, 1877-1883. Condition: excellent, all original. Size: 5/8" diameter. Weight: 11.4 grams. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: diamond, .172 ct; ruby, .367 ct.

A pretty Victorian fob locket, the front cover decorated with a three-dimensional image of bird tending her nest of eggs, all worked in yellow, rose and green gold. The locket is attached to a swinging bail and would originally have been worn on either a fob chain or a chatelaine, rather than as a pendant. The hinged back cover is plain and was never monogrammed. Tested and guaranteed 14K.

Origin: America, ca. 1880. Condition: excellent, back cover has a few small dings commensurate with the locket’s age. Size: overall (excluding jump ring), 1-1/4” x 1”; locket only, 3/4” x 3/4”.

A unusual brass tea caddy from the Imperial Romanov era. These boxes are much more frequently seen as rectangular shapes rather than ovals. The hinged lid is decorated with an ornately detailed appliqué of the imperial Romanov double-headed eagle. The interior is tin-lined in the traditional Russian style. The lid can be locked with a small padlock—a reminder that tea was once an expensive, luxurious commodity that had to be protected from household thieves. The interior is tin-lined as expected in a Russian brass box.

Origin: Russia, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent, no dings, all original. Size: 5-3/16" x 3-7/8" x 2-13/16" high.

A wonderful Victorian 18K gold acrostic gemstone brooch the shape of an artist's palette. The bright dabs of paint are indicated by a ruby, emerald, garnet, amethyst, ruby and diamond, the first letters of which spell out the sentiment "Regard". The gems are The design of the pin also includes paint brushes, a drafting instrument, and a hand rest, all tied together with a rag. The gold surfaces are enhanced with a softly bloomed "Russian finish" that was popular in the last decades of the 19th century. Details such as the bindings on the brushes, the lead in the drafting pencil and the pad of the hand rest are detailed in platinum. The gemstones are of fine quality, with bright color. This piece has great wit and the workmanship and detailing are superb. Tested and guaranteed 18K gold and platinum.

Acrostic jewelry first became popular in early 19th century France and remained popular for decades. Gemstones were used to spell sentiments such as "regard", names, important dates, etc. Rings are, by far, the most common pieces of acrostic jewelry. Brooches are quite uncommon.

Origin: probably America, ca. 1895. Weight: 8.8 grams. Size: 2-5/8" x 3/4".

A superb early Edwardian “style guirlande” platinum, gold, diamond, opal and pearl necklace. The fine platinum chain suspends a platinum and gold pendant centering a beautiful oval opal surrounded by an ornate swagged garland of diamonds punctuated with creamy natural pearls. The opal has strong and even play-of-color with strong flashes of bright green, a bit of blue and pale orange. The single cut and old European diamonds have beautiful color (F-H) and have clarity ranging from SI1 to I1. The center drop is articulated in three places, allowing lots of movement when being worn. The quality of workmanship is very fine, with completely hand-sawed openwork behind the stones, fine millegraining, and precise placement of stones. The back has a heavily worn maker’s mark, but the partial serial number would indicate a quality maker. Tested and guaranteed 14K gold and platinum.

Origin: America, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent, all original except the spring clasp which is 14K white gold instead of platinum. Size: necklace, 18-3/16” long; pendant, 2-7/8”W x 2-1/4”L. Weight: 9.0 gr. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: opal, 1.01 cts; diamond, 1.61 cts.

Fine Bohemian green-to-clear cut glass Biedermeier footed spa beaker ("spaglas") featuring five panels, each beautifully engraved with Classical symbols. Beakers of this sort originated in the great spa towns of Bohemia, where they were used to take the waters. Wealthy visitors often brought back a goblet as a souvenir of their restorative stay at the spa. This example is packed with finely-engraved symbols of all sorts--an anchor symbolizing hope; a cornucopia symbolizing prosperity; a swan symbolizing erotic love; a lyre symbolizing harmony; and the serpent of Epidaurus drinking from the bowl of Hygeia symbolizing health. The stem is panel cut, while the foot is simply decorated with printies and notches that match the cut vesicas on the sides.

Origin: Bohemia, ca. 1830. Condition: excellent, no chips or cracks. Size: 6-1/4" tall.

A rare enameled beaker made as a souvenir of the 1896 coronation of Imperial Russia’s last monarchs, Czar Nicholas II and Czarina Alexandra Feodorovna. One side of the beaker features the Imperial double-headed eagle and the reverse shows the Imperial cipher. The remainder of the body is decorated with traditional Russian strapwork. The beakers were to be given away to the public on the Khodinka field in Moscow. When the gates were opened, there was a great rush to get to the cups, and hundreds of people were trampled to death. Shortly after, the cup became known as the “Blood Cup” or “Cup of Sorrows”. The incident was thought at the time to be a bad omen for the future of the Imperial couple—an estimation that proved unfortunately correct. These beakers are often in very bad condition, but this one is excellent, with just a small enamel nick on the rim, light rust spots in the interior bottom and light wear to the gilding on the rim.

Origin: Russia, 1896. Size: 4-1/8” tall.

A nice 19th century Mexican folk retablo on tin depicting San José. In his role as the husband and protector of the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph became one of the more popular retablo subjects, representing an estimated 7% of 19th century pieces. According to the Apocrypha, Mary’s suitors left their staffs in the courtyard of her home overnight, and by the next morning, Joseph’s has sprouted blossoms, indicating he was God’s choice as her husband. The lily-covered staff became a primary attribute of Saint Joseph, and in this retablo it is shown just behind the infant Jesus. The saint is dressed in his traditional colors of green and yellow, the colors of fertility, new life and marriage. This retablo has a pleasant, particularly “folky” feel to it because of the outlining treatment of the fingers and Jesus’ unique garment that looks almost like a modern footed pajama.

Origin: Mexico, ca. 1880. Condition: very good, normal bending at corners and normal moderately-light paint loss. Size: 9-7/8” x 13-3/8”.

A handsome pair of Victorian 14K yellow gold double-sided cufflinks, the square faces highlighted with a hammered texture and star-set with very good quality antique cushion-cut diamonds, sapphires and rubies. One pair is diamond and ruby and the other is diamond and sapphire. The stones show no indications of heat treatment. The ruby and sapphire are most likely from Burma and Ceylon, respectively. The use of red, white and blue stones was particularly popular around the time of the American Centennial celebration in 1876. Tested and guaranteed 14K.

Origin: America, ca. 1876. Condition: excellent, all original. Size: 1/2” x 1/2”. Weight: 6.7 gr. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: diamond, .15 ct; ruby, .05 ct; sapphire, .05 ct.

A fine mid-19th century French silver tastevin (wine taster), the base inset with an 1810 Italian silver coin from the reign of Emperor Napoleon I as King of Italy. The bottom edge of the bowl is decorated with curved, scalloped "godrons" which were intended to reflect light through white wine to judge clarity. This tastevin does not have the "cupules" ("ovoides") specifically intended to deepen the color of red wines. The sides are decorated with grapevines and clusters of fruit. The handle is formed as a coiled serpent--as style particularly popular in Burgundy. The whole is raised on a circular ropetwist foot. Napoleonic coins are rarely seen in tastevins, and this piece probably dates to the Second Empire when Napoleonic items were viewed with some nostalgia. Fully hallmarked.

Origin: France, ca. 1850. Condition: excellent, sharp detail. Size: 3" diameter excluding handle. Weight: 72.3 grams.

Fine Napoleon III 18K yellow gold pansy brooch, the upper large petals accented with a lacy pierced floral border and the lower petals with a row of alternating rose cut diamonds and antique cushion cut rubies. The gold surfaces have a matte finish that mimics the velvety texture of pansy blossoms. Delicate engraving brings out the veining on the lower petals. The diamonds and rubies are of fine color. In the Romantic language of flowers, the pansy was used to symbolize remembrance (the French word for pansy is the same as the word for thought). The diamond and ruby border is faintly heart-shaped, perhaps adding another layer of secret meaning. The back retains the original extended pinstem and c-clasp fully stamped with French 18K hallmarks.

Origin: France, ca. 1850. Condition: excellent, all original. Size: 1-3/8" x 1-7/32". Weight: 5.7 grams. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: diamond, .37 ct; ruby, .72 ct.

A lovely Art Nouveau 14K yellow gold honeymoon pin in the form of a pearl-studded horseshoe enclosing a beautifully-enameled violet. The petals are worked in realistic shades of purple fading to pinkish-cream at the centers and the flower is accented with a bright green leaf. In the Victorian language of flowers, the violet was used to symbolize faithfulness. Combined with a horseshoe for good luck, a pin of this sort almost certainly would have served as a going-away gift. The original clasp is stamped 14K and has Krementz' hallmark.

Origin: America, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent, all original, no enamel damage. Size: 13/16" x 3/4". Weight: 3.3 gr.

A handsome mid-Victorian Scottish agate pendant featuring pear-shaped cabochons of bloodstone ("heliotrope") and carnelian in a fine gold setting. The gold surfaces are heavily decorated with fiolate engraving. Queen Victoria personally led the fashion for all things Scottish. Most jewels were set in silver; those set in gold were generally made in London using Scottish stones. Tested and guaranteed 15K.

Origin: Scotland/England, ca. 1870. Condition: excellent, the piece was originally a brooch and the pinstem and clasp were removed and a bail added for wear as a pendant. Size: 1" diameter. Weight: 11.1 gr.

A lovely Art Nouveau 18K yellow gold floral pendant. The flowers are represented by small rose cut diamonds and a round brilliant ruby. The gold foliage is finely engraved in a naturalistic pattern. The brooch suspends a drop-shaped natural pearl with fine luster. The ruby, though small, has fine red color and excellent clarity. The pendant is suspended from its bale with a double chain. Fully stamped with French 18K gold hallmarks.

Origin: France, ca. 1900. Condition: excellent, all original. Size: 1-9/32” wide; 1-3/8” long (not including chain); 2-1/4” long (including chain). Weight: 4.1 grams. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: ruby, .16 ct; diamond, .10 ct.

An outstanding pair of Napoleon III 18K yellow gold double-sided cufflinks, the faces fashioned from carved rhodolite garnets centering small collet-set natural pearls. The garnets have a strong purplish color and excellent clarity. The edge of each face is accented with scalloped ropework border. The faces are joined by figure-8 connectors. Stamped with French 18K gold hallmarks.

Origin: France, ca. 1860. Condition: excellent, all original. Size: 9/16" diameter. Weight: 6.49 grams.

An incredible Victorian 14K yellow gold watch fob in the form of an 1880’s style oil derrick. The details are amazing, complete with a pump house, a suspended drilling bit inside the derrick and a collection vat. Even spare parts lie around on the base. The entire piece is completely handworked and was almost certainly a special order and was probably made shortly after the first commercial oil well was drilled in Pennsylvania around 1860. Figural fobs of this quality are extremely rare. Tested and guaranteed 14K.

Origin: America, ca. 1880. Condition: excellent, sharp detail, no monogram on seal. Weight: 12.5 grams.

A lovely late Victorian 14K yellow gold locket, the front decorated with a coiled snake with a diamond-set head. The serpent’s head and tail are twisted together forming a circle that, in Victorian symbology, represented the eternal nature of love. The snake’s body is very nicely detailed and the 5-point old mine cut diamond has bright color and good clarity. The locket’s smooth surfaces have a slightly matte “Russian” finish that contrasts nicely with the details of the snake. The interior of the locket retains both original frames and glass covers. Tested and guaranteed 14K gold.

Origin: America, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent, a few pinpoints on the back side, no monogram. Size: 1” diameter. Weight: 5.9 grams.

A handsome pair of 18K yellow gold double-sided cufflinks from the era of Napoleon III. The navette-shaped faces are simply decorated with interlaced swirls. The faces are joined by chains. The cufflinks are stamped with French "tete de cheval" hallmarks for 18K.

Origin: France, ca. 1860. Condition: excellent, sharp detail. Size: 3/4" x 5/16". Weight: 6.0 gr.

An exceptionally fine, heavy pair of 18K yellow gold cufflinks, the faces hand-pierced with an ornate depiction of a mythological griffin. The workmanship is superbly done with heavy chased detail throughout. The surfaces show a mix of polished and semi-matte finishes. The backs have an ingenious folding mechanism that clasps the cuff without being too obvious. The clasps are marked with 19th century French patents, as well as hallmarks for 18K.

Origin: France, ca. 1870. Weight: 14.9 gr.

An outstanding Victorian lion's claw pendant mounted in 18K yellow god in the Etruscal Revival style. The mounting is covered with twisted rope, stippling and applied bead decoration, and is finished with a slightly matte surface. The quality of workmanship suggests the workshops of Rome as a likely place of origin. Lion's and tiger's claws were often brought back as souvenirs from hunting trips to Africa and India and were transformed into jewels. This claw is quite generously sized and is in very good condition, with a sharp point and no scaling. There is the natural splitting usually found on the inside of the curved edge. Tested and guaranteed 18K. French import hallmarks for 18K.

Origin: probably Italy, ca. 1860. Condition: excellent. Size: 1-5/8" (excluding remnants of chain) x 1-7/8". Weight: 9.1 gr.

NOTE: We will not ship this item outside the United States.