Catalog (2407)

Pair of elegant cut crystal bud vases with sterling silver footrims. The vases are cut with a simple starburt pattern near the upper rims. Marked "Wallace Sterling R-62".

Origin: America, circa 1960. Condition: excellent, no dents or chips. Size: 8" tall.

Pair of kettle-form sterling silver salt dishes raised on ball feet. The top edges are decorated with a simple beaded border, ensuring that the salts will coordinate well with any silver pattern. The bottoms are hallmarked by Watrous.

Origin: America, ca. 1900. Condition: excellent, no dings or monograms.

An extraordinary pair of painted tin toleware planters in the form of canoes. One is painted white with blue and red accent stripes and the other is red with blue and white accents. Each of the canoes has its original leather-wrapped wire hanger, and the undersides have trays to catch water drips. The drip trays also allow the canoes to placed on a surface instead of hanging. The paint is completely original and has a great crusty surface. The shape has the distinctive exaggerated upturned bow and stern associated with birchwood canoes.

Origin: America, ca. 1900. Condition: excellent, all original, white canoe has some paint loss on the drip tray legs, red canoe has some paint loss long the top edges of the plant holder. Dimensions: 15-1/2 x 4-1/4 x 7-3/4 inches.

A wonderful sterling silver trout set in Towle's 1884 "Arlington" pattern. The handles are decorated in the repousse style with a profusion of roses and foliage. The decoration lends itself to being mixed with many of the repousse patterns from the Baltimore area. It is the blade of the trout knife, wonderfully decorated with an engraved trout leaping into the air after biting a lure (the entire casting rod in the background), that really sets these servers apart. Complete Victorian services included fish sets, but trout servers are extremely uncommon. They are a bit smaller than regular fish servers and have a slightly different shape. Towle, in particular, seems to have been fond of the form. The backs are stamped with Towle's hallmark and the retailer's mark "H. G. Shupp".

Origin: America, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent, light surface wear, a small bend at the tip of the knife's upper lip. Size: fork, 8-1/8" long; knife, 10-1/4". Weight: 140.5 grams.

A very fine matched pair of Victorian 14K yellow gold hinged bangle bracelets presented in their original fitted box. Each bracelet is fashioned with a buckle design and accented with ornate engraved and basse taille enamel decoration in a foral pattern. The edges of the bangles have bright cut engraving that lends a little glitter. The bracelets are generously sized with 3/4" width.

Origin: America, ca. 1870. Condition: the exterior of both bangles are in mint condition with absolutely no enamel damage or dings; the interiors of both have a very few, shallow pinpoints; one bracelet retains the original patented safety mechanism (dated 1870), while the other has been replaced with a safety chain; the original fitted case shows considerable wear. Size: 3/4” wide; interior opening, 2-1/8” x 1-11/16”. Weight: 68.4 grams.

A lovely pair of hyacinth vases in teal blue glass. The classic shape is slightly conical with a widely flaring rim for resting the bulb over the water. These vases are especially attractive because of their rich color. Forcing hyacinths and other bulbs to bloom indoors was something of a Victorian passion that continued well into the 20th century.

Origin: America, ca. 1900. Condition: excellent, no chips or cracks. Size: 7" tall.

A handsome pair of sterling silver sugar tongs from the reign of King William IV. The sides are decorated in a classical late Georgian shell and thread motif. The quality is very fine. The interior have pristine hallmarks for London, 1834-35, and the maker’s mark for William Eaton.

Origin: England, 1834-35. Condition: nearly mint, no monogram, sharp detail. Size: 6-1/8” long. Weight: 69.5 grams.

An exceptionally fine Pampillonia 18K gold brooch in the form of a running thoroughbred horse mounted by a jockey. The workmanship is simply outstanding. Every detail of the horse's flying tail and the musculature underlying the coat are beautifully worked. The folds and wrinkles of the jockey's silks are equally detailed. The horse's eye is set with a small round ruby and the hoof of a hind leg touches on a .18-carat round brilliant cut diamond, graded as J color, SI2 clarity. The use of a yellow-green gold is an inspired choice that somehow keeps the rather heavy brooch from appearing overwhelming. The pin is unsigned, but is definitely by Pampillonia. Marked 18K.

• Origin: America, ca. 2010
• Condition: excellent, all original
• Dimensions: 1-1/2" x 2-3/8"
• Weight: 30.8 grams

A superb Rococo-style first standard (950/1000 pure silver) tastevin by the master silversmith Marc Parrod. This large example retains the round shape of a traditional tastevin but replaces the usual bowl decoration with ornate bunches of grapes tied with ribbon bows and a remarkable handle treatment illustrating a young couple stomping grapes while holding hands. Parrod created excellent classic Burgundian tastevins, but his fantasy pieces stand apart from all the other Dijon masters. The tastevin is stamped with Parrod's master's mark as well as 1st standard silver marks from the Beaune assay office. That office closed in 1914, so we know that this example is from the earlier part of Parrod's career.

• Origin: Dijon, France, ca 1903-14.
• Condition: excellent; all original; one tiny ding on the top edge of the bowl.
• Dimensions: 3-3/4" x 4-15/16" x 1-5/8".
• Weight: 122.8 grams.

A very good first standard (950/1000 pure) silver small-size tastevin by the highly regarded Dijon silversmith Marc Parrod. This example retains the classic round shape with a convex bottom, but the usual "godrons" and "cupules" gare replaced by repoussé grape clusters alternating with raised "perles". Each grape cluster is accented with stylized vines. Parrod was particularly noted for this unique variation. The handle is in a rather unusual shape slightly suggestive of the double snake handles sometimes found on tastevins from the Bourgogne region. These smaller tastevins are less common than the larger ones. Smaller tastevins from the Bordeaux region were often used for tasting Cognac, so perhaps the smaller Burgundian versions were used for some other spirit, as well as wine. The bottom and handle are stamped with first-standard silver marks and with Parrod's mark.

• Origin: Dijon, France, ca. 1903-1944
• Condition: excellent, no dings or monograms, sharp detail
• Dimensions: 2-1/4” diameter (excluding handle)
• Weight: 25.8 grams

A very good first standard (950/1000 pure) silver small-size tastevin by the highly regarded Dijon silversmith Marc Parrod. This example retains the classic round shape with a convex bottom, but the usual "godrons" and "cupules" are replaced by repoussé grape clusters alternating with "cupules". Each grape cluster is accented with stylized vines. Parrod was particularly noted for this unique variation. The handle is in the traditional form of two snakes grasping an apple, alluding to the the Garden of Eden snake and reminding the drinker of temptation. These smaller tastevins are less common than the larger ones. Smaller tastevins from the Bordeaux region were often used for tasting Cognac, so perhaps the smaller Burgundian versions were used for some other spirit, as well as wine. The bottom and handle are stamped with first-standard silver marks and with Parrod's mark.

• Origin: Dijon, France, ca. 1903-1944
• Condition: excellent, no dings or monograms, sharp detail
• Dimensions: 2-1/4” diameter (excluding handle)
• Weight: 24.6 grams

Outstanding brass match holder the pocket formed in the shape of a shield and punch-decorated in a stars and stripes pattern. The pocket is surmounted by a punch-decorated American eagle underneath the motto “In God We Trust”. This motto was adopted in 1863 as a subtle government reminder during the Civil War that God was on the side of the Union troops fighting to end the evil of slavery. The backplate has a punchwork border and also a hole for hanging.

Origin: America, ca. 1860s. Condition: excellent, all original, nice patina. Size: 3-15/16” x 2-1/2” x 5/8” deep.

A very nice pair of Victorian double-faced 14K yellow gold cufflinks, the oval faces set with trios of diamonds, rubies and sapphires. The diamonds are old mine cut, while the sapphires and rubies are cabochons. The colored stones are of very good color and show now indications of heat treatment. The gold surfaces are worked with the slightly matte Russian finish popular for higher quality jewelry of the period. Jewelry set with red, white and blue gemstones tended to gain popularity around key anniversaries or important events in American history. It is likely that these cufflinks date to the centennial year of 1876. The back of each face is marked 14K and has an unidentified maker's mark.

Origin: America, ca. 1876. Condition: excellent, all original. Dimensions: 21/32" x 13/32". Weight: 7.9 grams. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: diamond, .16 ct; sapphire, .23 ct; ruby, .23 ct.

A handsome pair of18K white gold cufflinks featuring flat discs of richly colored synthetic blue spinel. The “Spinel Disc” design is from Longmire’s “Contemporary 18K” line. The simple design and vibrant color has a very 1960s feel about it. The cufflinks are finished with toggle backs. Each is stamped with 18K hallmarks and with Longmire’s maker’s mark. The cufflinks are currently available from Longmire’s London boutique for $2200.

Origin: England, ca. 2015. Condition: excellent. Dimensions: 5/8” diameter. Weight: 9.7 gr.

A boxed set of sterling silver demitasse spoons by Paye & Baker. The set comprises two each of three different floral themes, all worked in the same intaglio style with glossy flowers and foliage against a stippled background. Two of the spoons are decorated with a pattern of wild roses, two with morning glories and two with pansies. The edges of the stems and handles are shaped to match the patterns. The bowls are finished with matte gilding. The backs are hallmarked by Paye & Baker and are marked "Sterling". The company made only a small range of products, but their Art Nouveau motifs were expertly designed.

• Origin: America, ca. 1900.
• Dimensions: 4" long.
• Weight: 38.8 grams.
• Condition: spoons, excellent condition, typical light fading of gilding on bowls; box has typical discoloration and wear.

A rare and elegant boxed set of six sterling silver citrus spoons in Paye & Baker's "Orange" pattern. The handles are decorated front and back with oranges, orange blossoms and foliage. Paye & Baker primarily made souvenir spoons, and this particular pattern was usually associated with Los Angeles, considered a very exotic location at the beginning of the 20th century. These spoons are the only set we've seen made as citrus spoons. The sharply-pointed deep bowls retain their original matte gilding. Each spoon is fully hallmarked.

• Origin: America, ca. 1900.
• Dimensions: spoons, 5 1/2" long.
• Weight: 158.4 grams.
• Condition: excellent; gilding intact; box has considerable age-appropriate wear and discoloration.

A very nice peacock or electric blue glass inkwell, the body cut in large facets. The hinged lid is topped with a figural cherub cast in glass of a matching color. The figure is completed with a matte acid finish that contrasts beautifully with the main part of the inkwell’s body. We’ve only seen this particular lid once and the figure was molded in colorless glass.

Origin: America, ca. 1900. Condition: excellent, a very small flake to the cherub's toes. Dimensions: 4-1/4” tall; 3” wide.

A classic target-style ring featuring a luminous pearl surrounded by a ring of calibre-cut synthetic rubies set in an 18K yellow gold setting. Originally a stick pin, this ring was created with the addition of an 18K shank. The rubies are synthetic—as they often were in the Art Deco period—are a beautiful deep red color that nicely accents the creamy white pearl.

• Origin: French stick pin, ca. 1920.
• Condition: excellent; converted from an Art Deco stick pin.
• Dimensions: crown, 11/32" diameter.
• Finger Size: 6-1/4".
• Weight: 1.5 grams.

A striking 14K gold peridot ring converted from a Victorian stickpin. The oval brilliant cut peridot has superb intense green coloring and is bezel-set in a elegantly-engraved gold collar. The ring has a 14K gold shank.

• Origin: America, ca. 1890.
• Condition: converted from a Victorian stickpin; excellent condition.
• Dimensions: crown, 1/2" x 7/16".
• Finger Size: 6 1/2.
• Weight: 2.2 grams.
• Approximate Gemstone Weight: 2.16 carat.

A fabulous Art Nouveau 14K gold ring set with a round brilliant cut peridot flanked by seed pearls. The gem is set in a distinctly Gothic revival quatrefoil design. The gold surfaces are hand-finished and have a matte surface typical of Art Nouveau jewels. The peridot has excellent color and clarity that contrasts beautifully with the bright white pearls. Converted from a stickpin, the piece is now a gorgeous ring. The crown retains the original maker's mark for Shanley Jewelry Company, of the leading Art Nouveau jewelers in the U.S.

• America, ca. 1920.
• Condition: excellent; converted from a stickpin.
• Dimensions: crown, 5/8" x 5/8".
• Finger Size: 6-1/4.
• Weight: 2.6 grams.
• Approximate Total Peridot Weight: 1.61 carats.

A lovely Christmas bouquet paperweight by Perthshire. The weight features a colorful bouquet of holly leaves, a red poinsettia and mistletoe surrounded by ring of red, white and green complex canes, all against an opaque snow white ground. The base is embedded with a signature/date cane. The paperweight is finished with 5/1 faceting.

Origin: Scotland, 1996. Condition: excellent, no roughnesses. Dimensions: 3" diameter; 2" high.

An elegant and exceptionally high quality pair of earclips in 18K yellow gold set with diamonds and sapphires by A Péry et Cie. The earrings feature fields of pave-set round brilliant diamonds bisected by bands of rectangular cut blue sapphires. The diamonds are E color and VS2 clarity; the sapphires are medium-dark strong blue (B6/5) color and eye-clean clarity. Each earring is fully stamped with French 18K gold marks and is signed by A. Péry et Cie. The clips have holes, so posts could be added without disrupting the integrity of the earrings.

Péry worked as manufacturer for Van Cleef & Arpels, but also worked for Boivin, Mellerio and other important French jewelers. Péry was responsible for some of VCA most iconic 20th century designs including the Ludo bracelet and the zipper necklace. The Péry ateliers are now owned by VCA.

Origin: France, ca. 1980. Condition: excellent, all original. Dimensions: 14 x 24 mm (9/16 x 15/16 in). Weight: 17.4 gr. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: diamond, 1.5 ct; sapphire, 3.25 ct.

Very handsome 18K yellow gold and steel cable cufflinks by one of the most important high-end contemporary jewelry designers, Philippe Charriol. Charriol rose to prominence working for Cartier before starting his own boutique in 1983. The “Celtic” line was Charriol’s first design, and the he updates it every few years. These cufflinks are a newer variation of the original “Celtic” design (the front faces of the original design had two steel cables separated by a gold bar, while this pair has one cable flanked on either side by a gold bar). The toggle backs allow the cufflinks to be inserted and worn comfortably. The connectors are stamped with Charriol’s hallmark and are marked “750” for 18K.

Origin: Switzerland, ca 2000. Condition: excellent. Size: front faces, 3/4" x 5/16”. Weight: 10.6 grams.

An exceptionally fine, heavy 18K yellow gold bracelet by Pierre Baltensperger. Each of the plaques represents a different flower, depicted in semi-abstract ways. Among the flowers are daisies, cyclamens, fuschias, morning glories and honeysuckle. Baltensperger was founded in 1878 by Walter Baltensperger, who quickly established the firm’s luxury reputation. His grandson Pierre Baltensperger assumed the lead in 1950. Pierre, born in 1927, became one of Switzerland’s most important sculptors and visual artists, in addition to his work with jewelry. This design, though similar in some respects to Georg Jensen’s work from the 1920s, likely dates to the late 1940s. The clasp is signed “Baltensperger” and has 18K marks and inventory numbers.

Origin: Zurich, Switzerland, ca. 1947. Dimensions: 5/8” x 7-5/8”. Weight: 40.0 gr.

A rare pair of mid-century haute couture cufflinks by Pierre Cardin. Each face comprises a carved jadeite bead simply mounted on a gold post. The backs are slightly arched gold bars. The jadeite beads are carved in a floral pattern and are done so in a way that they are carved completely through from one side to another. It’s likely that the cufflinks were constructed from an antique strand of jadeite beads. The jade has noticeable mottling in natural, strongly saturated shades of dark, medium and light green. The translucency is fair. Magnification and absorption spectra show no signs of dye. The connectors are signed “Pierre Cardin†and are fully hallmarked with French 18K marks. Pierre Cardin designed a very limited line of fine jewels in the 1950s and 60s. They were sold only at the couturier’s main store and are quite difficult to find now. Origin: Paris, ca. 1960. Condition: excellent, all original, no cracks or chips. Size: 1/2†diameter. Weight: 10.4 grams.

A very good bronze figure of a hound by Piere-Jules Mene (1810-1877). The hound stands alert look over his shoulder at the viewer. The rectangular base is well-textured with rocks and branches, typical of Mene's style. The shape of the base suggests that the casting is from Mene's own foundry and dates to the 1840s. The dogs is nicely detailed. The figure is finished in a dark black/brown patina. The front left corner of the base is signed P. J. Mene. There is no foundry mark.

The tail is cast separately, then attached to the rest of the figure with a threaded bronze pin. It is possibly an early repair, but the perfect match of patina and the precision of the fit suggests that the tail was intentionally cast separately.

Origin: France, ca. 1848. Condition: excellent; a small rub to patina on the back side of the hound's hind flank; see note about the tail above. Size: 5-1/4" x 2-1/8" x 3-1/2" high.

Staffordshire pottery cup and saucer decorated in a rare combination of rococo brown transfer reserves with pink luster roses. The earthenware body is molded in a swirled pattern.

Origin: England, c. 1850. Condition: mint. Size: saucer, 5" diam.; cup 2-1/4" tall, 3" diam. (not including handle).

A magnificent vintage platinum brooch formed as a floral bouquet featuring three primary blossoms tied at the bottom with a ribbon, and set with a mix of old single cut, old Swiss cut, old European cut, old mine cut, early modern brilliant round cut and French cut diamonds and round brilliant cut sapphires. The center flower features a .83-carat, old mine cut diamond of fancy cognac color and SI2 clarity; surrounded by sapphires. A flower bud is represented just above by a prong-set .34-carat old European cut diamond of fancy light cognac color and VS2 clarity. Leaves are bead-set with mixed cut white diamonds, all in the E-G color range with VS1 to SI2 clarity. Berries are represented by collet-set blue sapphires. The sapphires display P2B zone 30 color (moderate purplish blue) on the Gem Dialogue scale and have VS clarity. The hinged double pinstem is worked in 14K white gold, but the body of the brooch is tested and guaranteed platinum.

The range of different diamond cuts in this brooch clearly indicates it was specially made to order for a customer using the diamonds already in her possession. Such commissioned pieces are often not fully hallmarked, hence the lack of a mark for platinum or a maker's mark. The quality of workmanship is superb.

The brooch is accompanied by a June 2008 written appraisal (GIA & NAJA) conforming to the above description and assigning a replacement value of $16,500.

Origin: America, ca. 1950. Condition: excellent, all original. Size: 2" x 1-1/4". Weight: 16.3 gr. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: diamond, 1.84 carats (1.17 carats of fancy colored diamonds); sapphire, 2.1 carats.

A very fine pair of platinum, diamond and aquamarine earrings in a classic Art Deco style. The brilliant round-cut diamonds graduate from .20 ct at the top to .30 ct at the bottom. The diamonds are finely matched at H color, VS1 to VS2 clarity, with good to very good cut. The brilliant oval-cut aquamarines have fine color color, very good brilliance and SI clarity. The aquamarines are unheated. Each gemstone is set in a fully articulated mounting with a pierced gallery. The earrings have screw posts. Tested and guaranteed platinum.

Size: 1-3/4" long. Total Gemstone Weight: diamond, 2.52 carats; aquamarine, 3.52 cts. Weight: 9.0 grams.

A nice pair of sterling silver cufflinks with an subtle Art Deco engraved floral motif. The solid connectors are joined to hinged backs. Each connector is stamped with Polish sterling marks and an unidentified maker's mark.

Origin: Poland, ca. 1986 (the pattern is likely from the 1920s). Condition: excellent; sharp detail; unpolished. Dimensions: 13/16" x 1/2". Weight: 10.6 gr.

High quality porcelain tea saucer in a most unusual design incorporating polychrome fantasy flowers with pink luster, probably made for the American market. The body is a typical Regency style with tall, sharply angled sides.

Origin: England, c. 1800-1820. Condition: mint. Size: 5-5/8" diam.; 1-1/4" high.

High quality porcelain tea saucer in a most unusual design incorporating polychrome fantasy flowers with pink luster, probably made for the American market. The body is a typical Regency style with tall, sharply angled sides. Origin: England, c. 1800-1820. Condition: mint. Size: 5-5/8" diam.; 1-1/4" high.

An elegant pair of 19K yellow gold "Contas de Viana" earclips. The domes are covered with concentric circles of ropetwist appliques in the ancient Etruscan style. The clips are stamped with older Portuguese hallmarks for 19K.

Viana beads were modeled on ancient Etruscan jewels found in archaeological sites in Portugal. The circular patterns of filigree and granulation were thought to resemble the eyes of a partridge, bringing luck and protection. A Portuguese girl received her first bead from her godmother at birth. Whenever the family could afford it, another bead was added to the collection with the goal being to create a complete necklace—a circle of protection and good luck—in time for her marriage.

Origin: Portugal, ca. 1950. Condition: excellent, no dings. Dimensions: 7/8" diameter. Weight: 9.9 grams.

Silver mounted agate sculpture in the form of a Kiwi or a similar bird. The silver is well worked and complements the rich brown shadings of the agate. The silver mountings are marked "P. Rata 833".

• Origin: Portugal, 1950
• Condition: excellent, some natural pitting in the stone
• Dimensions: 2-1/4" tall

Very rare pair of sterling silver salad servers in the 1888 "Rococo" pattern by Dominick & Haff. This is one of the company's most desirable patterns. The pieces are quite simply, enormous! The handles are beautifully decorated with an ornate floral pattern that is repeated at the top of the bowl and tines. The backs of the handles are simply decorated with a vine motif along the edges. The bowl and tines retain their original gilding. The backs are marked with Dominick & Haff's hallmark and the patent date.

Origin: America, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent, all original, no monogram, gilding intact. Size: 11-1/2" long. Weight: 276.0 grams.

A pair of vintage sterling silver cufflinks by Hermes. The double baton faces are engraved in a tree bark motif and are connected by chains. Each cufflink is signed “Hermes†and bears appropriate French silver marks. They are also stamped with the silversmith’s hallmark. This is an early design that hasn't been in production in 80 years or more.

Origin: France, ca. 1930. Condition: cufflinks, excellent; box, excellent. Dimensions: faces, 13/16†long. Weight: 14.9 gr.

A very large and heavy sterling silver double jigger with a turned ebony handle by Quaker Silver Co. The cups are decorated with an ornate acanthus leaf and bead design reminiscent of Jensen and other Nordic designers of the early 20th century. The jigger is stamped with Quaker's hallmark.

Origin: America, ca. 1925. Condition: excellent, a couple of very tiny pinpoints along the rim of the smaller cup. Dimensions: 4-15/16" tall; 10-3/4"long. Weight: the silver portion is approximately 150.00 gr.

A very good pair of 18K yellow gold cufflinks by Alfred Dunhill. The faces resemble branches of coral. Dunhill produces the vast majority of its cufflinks in sterling silver and the 18K gold versions are very rare. The coral design, in general, is hard to find because it was made for only a short time around 2005. The cufflinks are constructed with the connector set off-center, so the link lies flat against the cuff. The toggle back is Dunhill’s classic small toggle with the company’s insignia. The connectors are fully stamped with English convention hallmarks for 18K and with the maker’s mark for Dunhill.

Origin: England, ca. 2005. Condition: excellent. Size: 1-1/4” x 3/4". Weight: 17.6 grams.

An extraordinary blue and white Chinese export porcelain beaker-form jardinière raised on feet. The quality of the painted decoration makes this one of the finest examples of 19th century Canton we’ve seen. The entire pot is heavily decorated in a naturalistic array of peonies, cherry blossoms and chrysanthemums. The upper border has a beautiful scalloped pattern while the lip is decorated in a traditional Greek key-type design. Perhaps the finest decorative element, however, are the feet—wonderfully shaped as fat sparrows with their wings outstretched. The detailing of the plumage is really lovely. The sparrows’ heads extend past the bottom of the jardinière to lift it off the surface. The inside bottom has the original hole which could be plugged with a cork to regulate drainage. Potting an item of this size was difficult, and there is a line around the inside bottom edge where the bottom pulled away from the sides a bit in kiln. The bottom also has a hairline that extends around 1/3 of the bottom edge. The hairline is stable and the jardiniere is perfectly usable. Considering the rarity of the form and the superior quality of the decoration, these are really rather minor distractions.

Origin: Southern China, ca. 1820. Condition: good. Size: 10-3/8” tall; 9-1/2” diameter at top.

A rare composition Halloween candy container in the form of a three-dimensional owl, complete with glass eyes. The container is large enough to hold quite a generous amount of candy!

• Origin: probably Germany, ca. 1920
• Dimension: 4-1/4" tall
• Condition: very good, but some cracking along side seams and a flake at the back edge of the container opening

A classic mid-20th century French silver tastevin of traditional form. The bowl is decorated with angled godrons for evaluating white wines and small convex perles and larger concave cupules for use with red wines. The handle, also, is in the traditional snake form. Up until the mid-20th century, a few silversmiths in France were able to raise an entire tastevin from a single Napoleon III 5-franc coin. The work was accomplished solely with the aid of variously-sized hammers which were used to thin and spread out the original coin and a series of other tools used to form the decorations. They can often be identified by the the exact weight (always 32.5 grams before the addition of the handle). Only a handful of master silversmiths were able to create a tastevin in which the phrase “DIEU PROTEGE LA FRANCE” (“God protect France”), which originally appeared on the rim of the 5-franc coin, was still legible at the rim of the tastevin. The last silversmith with this documented ability stopped working in 1968. The tastevin is stamped with the “Minerve” mark for 800 silver and with an illegible maker’s mark.

Origin: France, ca. 1930. Condition: excellent. Size: 25/32” high; 2-3/4” diameter (excluding handle). Weight: 32.9 grams.

Very rare Imperial Russian silver child's fork with vermeil and engraved floral decoration. In fact, I've never before seen a piece of Russian children's flatware. The maker's hallmark on the back is slightly obscured by the design, but the assayer's mark (AA/1895), the standard mark (84), and the city mark (Moscow) are very clear.

Origin: Moscow, 1895. Condition: mint. Size: 4-3/4" long.

Very rare Staffordshire figural inkwell in the form of two birds nesting amongst flowers. A beautifully modeled and painted tulip stands upright between the birds. It is possible that the tulip was intended as a candlestick, because the quill holders are in the base near the birds' tails. Origin: England, ca. 1870. Size: 2-3/4" diameter; 3" tall. Condition: excellent, no damage or repairs.

A handsome pair of Victorian 14K yellow gold double-sided cufflinks, the faces set with cabochon agates. The variety of agate is called “landscape agate” because the colors and markings resemble painted landscapes. These particular stones suggest colorful sunsets behind wooded landscapes. The bezel settings are finished with fine millegraining. The connectors are marked 14K and have an unknown American maker’s mark.

Origin: America, ca. 1890. Condition: excellent. Size: 5/8” x 9/16”. Weight: 10.4 grams.

A rare vintage pressed paper Halloween noisemaker in the form of a carrot. The colors are bright and the mouthpiece retains the reed, so it makes a nice squawky sound. The side has a handwritten price of 10 cents and is faintly marked "Germany."

• Origin: Germany, ca. 1920
• Dimensions: 8" tall
• Condition: excellent, bright color, working

A delightful German Christmas candy container in the shape of an apple. The container is made from composition then painted and finished with a coat of wax to add a realistic soft sheen. A wick is used for the apple's stem. The interior of the pull-out base is marked "Germany."

Origin: Germany, ca. 1910. Condition: very good; a small amount of crackling to the wax only near the blossom end of the apple. Dimensions: 2.25" x 2.25" x 2.25.".

A delightful German Christmas candy container in the shape of a lemon. The container is made from composition then painted and finished with a coat of wax to add a realistic soft sheen. The interior of the pull-out base is marked "Germany."

Origin: Germany, ca. 1910. Condition: excellent. Dimensions: 3.25" x 2.25" x 2.25.".

A delightful German Christmas candy container in the shape of a peach. The container is made from composition then painted and finished with a coat of wax to add a realistic soft sheen. The interior of the pull-out base is marked "Germany." Origin: Germany, ca. 1910. Condition: excellent. Dimensions: 2.25" x 2.25" x 2.25.".

A delightful German Christmas candy container in the shape of a pear. The container was made from composition, then painted and finished with a coat of wax to add a realistic soft sheen. The interior of the pull-out base is marked "Germany."

• Origin: Germany ca. 1910
• Good condition; there is a small nick on the top and a crack extending across the bottom from the opening (it is only in the outer layer and does not go through to the interior
• Dimensions: 3-1/2" x 2-1/2" x 2-1/2"

Elegant sterling silver basket of sterling silver, pierced to reveal a cobalt blue glass liner. The neo-Gothic style piercing is accented with a tiny band of beading just below. The basket is raised on a foot. The swing handle is unadorned. The bottom is hallmarked by Redlich.

Origin: America, ca. 1930. Condition: excellent, no dings or cracks, no monogram. Size: 5-1/2” tall to top of handle; 4-1/4” diameter. Silver Weight: 122.5 grams.

A classic Art Deco figural cocktail shaker in the form of traditional milk can by Reed & Barton. The “Milk Can” was introduced in 1959 and came in two sizes, with the 32-ounce size retailing for $35. This shaker was a luxury product and was made with Reed & Barton’s highest quality plating. The bottom is stamped “Reed & Barton/27/32 oz.” It also retains the original paper lable.

Origin: America, ca. 1959. Condition: near mint, no dings or scratches. Size: 9-1/2” tall.

A classic sterling silver double jigger by Reed & Barton. Unlike most double jiggers, this style has the two bell-shaped measures joined directly at the middle rather than having a spacer, creating a more compact shape. The inside of one cup is hallmarked by Reed & Barton.

• Origin: America, ca. 1955
• Condition: excellent, no monograms or dings
• Dimensions: 3-1/4” tall
• Weight: 45.5 grams

A wonderful sterling silver soup ladle in Reed & Barton’s famous 1907 “Francis I” pattern. This is one of the most desirable late Victorian American flatware designs. This ladle is from the original series and is hallmarked with Reed & Barton’s old hallmark and the design patent date.

Origin: America, ca. 1910. Condition: excellent, very sharp details, light surface scratches in bowl from normal use, no monogram, no dings. Size: 12-1/4” long. Weight: 243.0 grams.

A lovely boxed set of sterling silver coffee or demitasse spoons in the “Harlequin” pattern. Each spoon features and stem and finial in a different floral form (L-R “Wild Rose”, “Goldenrod”, “Calla Lily”, “Hollyhock”, “Apple Blossom”, “Tea Rose”, “Water Lily” and “Forget-me-not”). The designs are beautifully worked. The bowls are parcel gilt. Each spoon is hallmarked. They are presented in their original box with an illustrated guide (dated 1948) to the patterns inside the lid.

• Origin: America, 1948
• Condition: excellent; box has normal age-appropriate wear
• Dimensions: 4” long
• Weight: 81.7 grams

A very nice sterling silver double jigger with bell-form cups joined by a twisted stem by Reed & Barton. The jigger has substantial weight and a generous size. Fully hallmarked by Reed & Barton.

• Origin: America, ca. 1950.
• Condition: excellent, no dings or mongorams.
• Dimensions: 4-1/2" tall.
• Weight: 89.6 grams.

An extraordinarily fine Renaissance Revival 14K gold ball fob, suspended from its original chain. The orb is beautifully decorated with foliate engraving in the English style crisscrossed with bands of small natural pearls. The upper half of the orb is set with three blue sapphires in pinched floret mountings. The chain, fashioned as a series of florets, is alternately set with antique cushion cut sapphires and rubies flanked at compass points by natural seed pearls. The chain terminates with its original swivel hook. The rubies and sapphires have good color and show no evidence of heat treatment. The pearls have very luster. Tested and guaranteed 14K.

Origin: America, ca. 1870. Condition: excellent, all original. Size: sphere, 15mm diameter; chain & fob overall length, 117mm. Weight: 11.9 gr. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: ruby, .10 ct; sapphire, .18 ct.

A lovely Retro necklace worked in 14K rose and yellow gold and set with moonstones and amethysts. The necklace descends from a rose gold paperclip link chain toward a pair of openwork yellow gold plaques, each set with a round amethyst accented with a rose gold stylized flower, and flanking a central triangular plaque designed in the same manner. A pair of oval cabochon moonstones is set at either side. The central plaque suspends a larger oval moonstone with a nearly invisible setting. The moonstones have very nice bluish adularescence and the amethysts have rich purple color. The interplay of gemstone and gold colors and the unusual design mixing Victorian, Art Nouveau and Retro elements creates a very striking effect. Tested and guaranteed 14K.

Origin: America, ca. 1935. Condition: ecellent, all original. Size: 17-5/8” long; central plaque and pendant, 1-3/8” long. Weight: 14.7 grams. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: moonstone, 7.43 cts; amethyst, .32 ct.

A very nice Retro 14K yellow gold statement ring set with an imposing lemon yellow emerald cut citrine flanked by natural ruby cabochons. The split shank with a cage setting holds the citrine only at the very corners, so from the top, the entire ring appears to be one large expanse of gemstone. The rubies provided a nice pop of color. Tested and guaranteed 14K.

Origin: America, ca. 1935. Condition: excellent, all original. Finger Size: 8-1/2. Dimensions: citrine, 19x11mm. Weight: 13.0 gr. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: ruby, 1.16 cts; citrine 23.20 cts.

A very fine Retro Moderne brooch in the form of a three-leaf clover, each leaf fashioned from an heart-shaped aquamarine, and centered with a pearl. The aquamarines are simply framed in gold collet settings with halo wirework accented with beading. The stones, 1.33 carats on either side and 1.87 carats at the top, have stunning pure blue coloring without a hint of gray. The 5.5mm pearl has an ivory body color with rosé overtones, and a very nice, lustrous surface. The back of the brooch retains the original pinstem and safety clasp, and is marked “14K”.

Origin: America, ca. 1940. Condition: Excellent, all original. Size: 15/16” x 1-7/32”. Weight: 4.0 grams. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: 4.53 carats.

A lovely pair of colorful Retro earrings worked in 14K yellow gold. Each earring is fashioned in a stylized fan pattern set at the center with a round brilliant cut blue zircon and a spray of oval cabochon moonstones. The intense electric blue of the zircons heightens the softer, billowy blue adularescence of the moonstones. The zircons are set in rose gold, while the moonstones are in yellow. Tested and guaranteed 14K gold.

Origin: America, ca. 1935. Condition: excellent. Dimensions: 5/8 x 3/4 in. Weight: 5.3 grams. Approximate Total Gemstone Weight: zircon, 1.76 cts; moonstone, 7.38 cts.