1960s modernist style brooch
Price: £15
This is a lovely brooch with a modern floral design, with faux pearls and paste stones in gold tone metal
Lovely 1950s brooch
Price: £10
This is a very striking round brooch set with clear and blue paste stones
2 1950s floral brooches
Price: £10
This is a lot of two similar floral brooches set with green and blue stones
1950s brooch sun design
Price: £10
This is a lovely brooch set with gold and clear stones in sun design
1950s aurora borealis brooch
Price: £15
This is a lovely brooch set with aurora borealis and faux opal glass stones
Two Avon Perfume Bottles, Lady and a Girl, 1970s
Price: £20
These are two from the series of perfume bottles in the form of ladies or young girls issued by Avon in the 1970s. The first represents a figure in 1920s dress and is sometimes found with a label (missing here) which reads ‘Roaring Twenties’ followed by the name of a perfume. The second is a country girl complete with its label which reads ‘Avon’ ‘Nearness’ but the same model is found with other labels, indicating that both these containers were used for more than one brand of perfume. These bottles were an amusing marketing ploy which doubtless contributed to many successful sales.
Catalin bead necklace with amulet c1950
Price: £55
This is a very unusual necklace comprising large dual-coloured grey beads. These are Catalin which is an early plastic. The beads have been Simichrome tested and are not Bakelite.
The beads are strung onto silk cord and end with a silvered metal amulet. This is most likely Turkish in origin.
2 Sarah Coventry Brooches
Price: £30
This is a lot 2 brooches by jewellery designer Sarah Coventry, both signed
Unique Butler & Wilson Neoclassical Tiara 1980s
Price: £195
This is a very unusual piece of vintage Butler & Wilson from the 1980s. It is at the very least quite unique and it is possibly bespoke. It it extremely ornate and beautifully made with mounted festoons, putti and swans. It is finished with a large crown which is quintessential B & W. It is set with faux pearls. There are faux pearls that encircle the swans necks and hanging faux teardrop pearls along the edge. All this is built on a stiff mesh frame. It bears the Butler & Wilson mark.
As most people who love costume jewellery know, Butler & Wilson have been and are a powerhouse British brand that have been designing costume jewellery since the 1970s. Pieces like this one are quite collectable due to their age and design. There are many collectors around the world that collect both vintage and new pieces. This one is for you!
Arts and Crafts Hand Mirror with Repousse Decoration, circa 1900
Price: £55
A very unusual hand mirror of shaped paddle form, the wood body with applied hammered pewter decoration, the back with an overall design, very finely worked, of flowering lotus and a butterfly on a minutely hammer punched ground, the plain border with studded nail head fixings, the front with a small pewter panel to the handle, similarly decorated and secured, and with a single red cabochon bead to the head, the frame of the mirror in plain wood.
Elements of two contrasting contemporary styles combine here with features from both the Arts and Crafts and the Art Nouveau movement. The hammered pewter with the almost rustic nail head fixings and the red bead reflect the former but the elegant depiction of the lotus and butterfly, with more than a hint of the Orient, reflect the latter. The maker is anonymous but doubtless British and clearly a highly skilled craftsman. Much thought and expertise went into the design of this piece which would be a desirable addition for collectors of either or both of the pieces made under the influence of these two highly popular design movements.
Korean Najeonchilgi lacquerware jewellery Box, C20th
Price: £25
This is an example of Korean lacquerware known as ‘Najeonchilgi’. The technique, derived from both China and Japan, involves the inlay of shellfish derived small pieces onto a lacquerware base. ‘Najeon’ means ‘mother of pearl’ and ‘chilgi’ lacquerware. These wares were produced quite early on in Korea’s history with a ‘golden era’ during the Goryeo dynasty (918–1392) but continued to be made until quite recent times. This box, then, made in the late C20th, comes at the end of a long run of a traditional manufacturing process but retains some of the hallmarks of its predecessors. The shape is rectangular with a bowed front, the hinges and clasp fastening in polished metal and the interior lined in red fabric with a mirror fitted to the underside of the lid. The highly polished black lacquer surface is inlaid with mother of pearl decoration, flowers to the front and a moonlit scene of storks to the lid, symbolising long life. Highly decorative in itself, this box is also extremely practical as storage item for a small jewellery collection and would be an elegant addition to the dressing table.
Red Crocodile Bag with Tassel Detail, 1930s
Price: £75
This is a wonderful bag made of red crocodile in a barrel shape with two main compartments and tassels on each side. Lined in suede.
Black Crocodile Handbag in Oval Shape, 1940s
Price: £150
This is a very unusual large bag made from black crocodile in an oval shape, with an original handle that has been restored. Lined in leather. Most likely made in France although it is unmarked. The handle has been restored to it's original beauty and is ready for daily use. This bag will turn heads, especially among vintage aficionados. This one is rare!
Large patent crocodile handbag, Dofan France, 1950s
Price: £150
This is a stunning bag in glossy crocodile skin, with a simple gold tone closure in an unusual square design, lined in leather
Very Rare Chinese Export Silver Gilt Evening Bag, 1920s
Price: £75
This is an extremely rare evening bag comprised of a Chinese Export silver gilt frame inset with jade, coral and other semi-precious stones. The body of the bag is silk embroidered with metallic thread and appears to be original.
Mexican silver floral brooch 1930s
Price: £40
This is a very large floral spray brooch in silver with a slightly abstract modernist design, marked Sterling. Hammering of silver sheets like this was a popular technique in Mexican silver and this is an excellent example.
Art Deco convertible brooch dress clips c1930
Price: £95
This is a wonderful example of these types of brooches. It is silver and is set with very high quality marchasit stones. It is marked silver on both the piece and the clips.
Arts and Crafts Hand Mirror with Repousse Decoration, circa 1900
Price: £55
A very unusual hand mirror of shaped paddle form, the wood body with applied hammered pewter decoration, the back with an overall design, very finely worked, of flowering lotus and a butterfly on a minutely hammer punched ground, the plain border with studded nail head fixings, the front with a small pewter panel to the handle, similarly decorated and secured, and with a single red cabochon bead to the head, the frame of the mirror in plain wood.
Elements of two contrasting contemporary styles combine here with features from both the Arts and Crafts and the Art Nouveau movement. The hammered pewter with the almost rustic nail head fixings and the red bead reflect the former but the elegant depiction of the lotus and butterfly, with more than a hint of the Orient, reflect the latter. The maker is anonymous but doubtless British and clearly a highly skilled craftsman. Much thought and expertise went into the design of this piece which would be a desirable addition for collectors of either or both of the pieces made under the influence of these two highly popular design movements.
Korean Najeonchilgi lacquerware jewellery Box, C20th
Price: £25
This is an example of Korean lacquerware known as ‘Najeonchilgi’. The technique, derived from both China and Japan, involves the inlay of shellfish derived small pieces onto a lacquerware base. ‘Najeon’ means ‘mother of pearl’ and ‘chilgi’ lacquerware. These wares were produced quite early on in Korea’s history with a ‘golden era’ during the Goryeo dynasty (918–1392) but continued to be made until quite recent times. This box, then, made in the late C20th, comes at the end of a long run of a traditional manufacturing process but retains some of the hallmarks of its predecessors. The shape is rectangular with a bowed front, the hinges and clasp fastening in polished metal and the interior lined in red fabric with a mirror fitted to the underside of the lid. The highly polished black lacquer surface is inlaid with mother of pearl decoration, flowers to the front and a moonlit scene of storks to the lid, symbolising long life. Highly decorative in itself, this box is also extremely practical as storage item for a small jewellery collection and would be an elegant addition to the dressing table.
2 pairs of antique kidskin gloves, opera and every day
Price: £25
This is a lot of two pairs of antique gloves, one is a long opera length pair with mother of pearl buttons and the second is an every day pair
Pair of antique kidskin driving gloves
Price: £25
This is a wonderful pair of kidskin driving gloves
Art Deco beaded dress adornment
Price: £30
This is a very rare and detailed dress adornment comprising beads and glass stones attached to a long fringe
Victorian tortoiseshell hair ornament
Price: £20
This is a very lovely hair comb with engraved decoration set with paste stones
Neiger Brothers necklace with Egyptian Revival glass plaques c1930
Price: £225
This is Neiger piece with beautiful lapis glass molded plaques depicting Egyptian iconsography. It features an Art Deco design with machine age elements combined with more traditional marcasite stones. This one combines different styles that are perfectly balanced.
Green Leather Jewellery Box with Bramah Lock, early C20th
Price: £55
This is a fine quality jewellery box covered in green leather with a graining effect. The rectangular base is fitted with a shallow flush lid and attached by brass lever hinges. The front of the base has a lock marked ‘Bramah’ (lacking its original key) and the lid a leather strap handle with fine stitching. Inside are two removable trays, the top one with compartments for jewellery, and the bottom of the box is divided into two compartments. The linings of the box and trays are in green leather and velvet with moiré silk to the inside of the lid. As with the previous lot, there are many features here of a ‘deluxe’ item, in particular the ‘Bramah’ lock, known for its high security, and the lever hinges. This box perhaps dates to a little later than the previous one, more to the 1930s but is no less of a ‘luxury’ item which equally well retains its functionality today.
Two small metal perfume Flasks and Stoppers, 1920s
Price: £35
Two small metal flasks, the first in brass of rounded rectangular form with a ball shape stopper, the surface plain, and the second in copper of ovoid form again with a ball shape stopper and also a loose ring handle, the surface with beaten decoration of a repeating design of small circles. The shapes of both of these are usually described as perfume bottles which makes sense here where the stoppers are both screw top. The copper example was perhaps intended for attachment to a belt and the size of either would have made them suitable travelling accessories. Dating is probably to the 1920s and the beaten decoration of the second is a feature of pieces made under the influence of the ‘Arts and Crafts’ movement which flourished in Britain from the late nineteenth to the early twentieth century.
Art Deco silver travel minaudiere purse with photo portraits 1920s
Price: £125
This is a beautiful small engraved minaudiere purse with portraits and space for makeup etc. The pictures inside give a glimpse into the owners travels as they are of two young women posing on the deck of a ship. The case is very finely engraved silver with scrolls and foliage and there is a monogram of GMC. Marked Sterling which indicates it is most likely American. The button closure on the side is either a cabochon sapphire or a paste facsimile.
Egyptian Revival filigree cuff bracelet 1930s
Price: £95
This is a very unusual statement bracelet comprising alternating filigree stations. The round stations have a central incised portrait of Nefertiti and the ingot shape stations have the typical papyrus design. The bracelet has Egyptian hallmarks indicating a dating to the 1930s.
Unusual large evening minaudiere by Volupte USA 1950s
Price: £25
This a very unique large minaudiere by American designer Volupte. It contains powder, lipstick and with a part that would have been for cigarettes. It has a female figure with paste stones in an Art Deco design with gold colour waves below. It has some powder and the original lipstick in red. With black taffeta cover so can be carried as a wrist bag.
Art Deco mother of pearl card case
Price: £50
This is a beautiful card case comprising mother of pearl in a diamond pattern. With wood lining
Victorian decorated papier mache glove box with pair of kidskin gloves
Price: £65
This is a stunning Victorian papier mache glove box with very fine painted decoration depicting an Austrian landscape and flowers, the interior finished in red. It is offered with wonderful pair of kidskin gloves, perhaps contemporary. These are a good size suitable to fit a small hand, size 4 or 5. Truly a collector's item for the fashion conscious!
Early Neiger Brothers book chain necklace c1910
Price: £325
This is quite an early necklace by the Neiger brothers that features a large stylized central pendant depicting Sobekneferu or it might be conglomeration of different figures. This then has a hanging pendant with a molded glass plaque that depicts another Egyptian figure. The chain is interesting as it is a book chain style particularly popular in the Edwardian era.
Two Avon Perfume Bottles, Lady and a Girl, 1970s
Price: £20
These are two from the series of perfume bottles in the form of ladies or young girls issued by Avon in the 1970s. The first represents a figure in 1920s dress and is sometimes found with a label (missing here) which reads ‘Roaring Twenties’ followed by the name of a perfume. The second is a country girl complete with its label which reads ‘Avon’ ‘Nearness’ but the same model is found with other labels, indicating that both these containers were used for more than one brand of perfume. These bottles were an amusing marketing ploy which doubtless contributed to many successful sales.
Gilt decorated English porcelain powder box and cover, probably mid C20th
Price: £15
This is a large English porcelain powder box and cover, the circular body with a shallow domed cover, the surface glazed white with elaborate gilt decoration of embossed stylised floral bands with stylised floral gilt borders above and below. The base is unmarked but the paste of the foot suggests English manufacture and the rich gilt decoration reflects that of dinner services produced by some of the well known twentieth century porcelain producers, Minton in particular.
Rare large ruby red Bakelite buckle, American 1930s
Price: £75
This is a very unusual and large buckle made from ruby red Bakelite, shaped in a semi abstract form with a large rectangular central plaque between two similar smaller plaques each with a stylised openwork foliate device at the ends, the plaques with deeply cut wavy line designs, the reverse plain with metal bar attachment fittings and a curved edge clasp all attached with screws. There are no real parallels for this piece which almost seems like a reinterpretation of ancient Chinese lacquer wares but the angular and abstract design is very much from the Art Deco era.
Striking Bakelite buckle in the shape of an airplane, American 1930s
Price: £45
This is an incredible buckle in ivory white Bakelite in the shape of an airplane that spreads open at the wings, with impressed carved circle decoration on the wings and tail and metal fitments to the reverse for securing the belt and fastening the buckle. The airplane is one of the classic decorative objects of the Art Deco period, featuring prominently both in the round, often as a desk ornament, and in graphic design. But buckles in the form are unusual and we are fortunate to be able to include two examples in this auction!
Jean Paul Gaultier Mini Fragrance Set, La Parade Des Extraits, 1993
Price: £75
This is a clear plastic box containing four 3.5 ml miniature atomiser bottles of Jean Paul Gaultier perfumes with a travelling case (the metallic cylinder) in the centre, which is enclosed in a thin plastic slip case detailing the contents and with the date 1993. This was the year in which the famous French fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier launched his range of perfumes of which this is a sample box. The four containers are modelled in the form of ladies’ busts with corsets reflecting the infamous ‘cone bra’ designed by Gaultier for Madonna and worn by her during her 1990 Blond Ambition World Tour. Surviving in near perfect condition with the contents intact this is now a sought after collector’s item which accurately recalls Gaultier’s individual and provocative style.
Victorian guilloche enamel and marcasite ring
Price: £60
This is a lovely and delicate ring comprising a panel of blue guilloche enamel surrounded with marcasite stones
Outstanding strand of Chinese coral beads
Price: £150
This is an amazing necklace comprising large carved Art Deco coral beads strung with more modern 20th century round beads and fitted with a Chinese silver clasp. The large beads are carved with typical Chinese symbols and decoration. These beads are natural coral and there are blemishes that indicate this, the variations only adding to their unique beauty.
Silver and marcasite statement brooch, 1956
Price: £125
This is a real showstopper of a brooch. It is very large in a floral spray and ribbon design. It has numerous silver marks including an English import mark from 1956. The other marks indicate that it is most likely continental possibly Belgian or Swiss.
What stands out with this brooch is the quality of the workmanship. It is encrusted with hundreds of marcasite stones that are all prong set. There is not one missing stone. We get so used the costume versions of a brooch like this; it is such a pleasure to see an original.
Burgundy Leather Jewellery Box with Bramah Lock, early C20th
Price: £95
This is a fine quality jewellery box covered in red burgundy leather. The rectangular base is fitted with a shallow flush lid bevelled at the front and back and attached by brass lever hinges. The front of the base has a lock marked ‘Bramah’ with the original key and the lid an inset brass handle, the surface of which would have been suitable for the engraving of the owner’s initials. Inside are two removable trays, the top one with compartments for jewellery and a circular holder for a watch. The linings of the box and trays are in burgundy leather and velvet. There are many features here of a ‘deluxe’ item, in particular the ‘Bramah’ lock, known for its high security, and the lever hinges. The box most likely dates to the early 1900s and would clearly have been sold by a purveyor of ‘luxury’ items for a wealthy clientele. It retains, of course, its functionality today.
Carved celadon jade pendant Necklace c1920
Price: £95
This is a beautiful and long necklace that features a large carved Buddha pendant figure in celadon jade. It is strung on the original silk cord that also has bead stations.
(Please note that although this is jade, we are not specialists in this field and cannot be sure whether or not the jade has been treated in some way.)
Charming Novelty handbag, Thailand 1950s
Price: £45
This is a very unusual and large bag constructed in the shape of a house with a central courtyard or balcony and windows which actually open. It is made of raffia and is embroidered with floral motifs. This would most likely have been a souvenir made for tourists. It has a double closure and appears to have been hardly used with a handle that seems sturdy.
Patent Crocodile Handbag, Italian 1970s
Price: £75
This is a truly elegant handbag made from deep brown burgundy crocodile skin, the slim rectangular body with a fold over flap secured by a gilt metal clasp, the reverse with an open pouch pocket, the interior lined with a zip pocket and a stamped mark 'Made in Italy', and the loop handle suspended from gilt metal rings of geometric design, all finished with delicate hand stitching.
Please note that the original double strap handle has been recently remodelled to a simple loop as being more practical and consistent with the overall design of the piece.
Large tooled leather bag with Moroccan Designs 1970s
Price: £85
This is a beautiful large bag made from light soft leather that has been tooled all over with Moroccan patterns and vignette roundels depicting camels and palm trees.Lined in leather, it has four stud feet and is in immaculate condition..
Art Deco beaded bag with celluloid frame
Price: £25
This is a wonderful bag in beautiful condition. It comprises all over bead work with geometric designs with the original beaded handle
Victorian small note pad for chatelaine
Price: £45
This is a charming small note pad that would have hung from a ladies chatelaine or a ladies "tool belt" so to speak. It is silver plated with the original paper pages with actual notes on them which is fun. There is also the original mechanical pencil. There is a spring hinge so the notepad opens automatically. The silver plate has a repousse design of angels or putti very typical during this time.
Opera length mille fiore station necklace and earrings c1950 and later
Price: £45
This is a striking and very long necklace comprising stations of mille fiore glass beads and red and black glass beads with paste stones in between. It is very elegant and detailed. It is meant to wrap around the neck and then hang down to the waist although it could be also wrapped around the neck a few times. It is paired with complementary earrings that have black glass and paste stones. The necklace is not silver and most likely would have had gilding in its time. The earrings still have a gold tone. The necklace dates to the 1950s and the earrings are later, most likely 1970s.
Trinket box in the shape of a bound Book, onyx and brass, Austria, first half C20th
Price: £110
This is an unusual trinket box comprising two heavy onyx slabs, fitted with brass which has been cast in the form of a book's spine, pages and clasps. The brass has been patinated to give a more 'olde world' look. There are four small ball form feet to the base and a stamped mark 'AUSTRIA' to one of the sides. Other similar examples are known and many are marked with the country of origin. Great skill was needed to combine bronze fitments which required the drilling fixing holes with the potentially fragile onyx slabs and these boxes must have been luxury items in their day. The style has a hint of ‘Arts and Crafts’ on the one hand and ‘Art Deco’ on the other suggesting a dating to the 1920s when Vienna itself was in the grip of the ‘secessionist’ movement.
Art Deco Catalin Bakelite necklace, American c1930
Price: £125
This is a fabulous necklace comprising very large mustard coloured catalin beads in tubular, ovoid and globular shapes. Catalin is a form of plastic that is comtemporary with Bakelite. They are very similar as they are both composed of phenol and formeldehyde. The main difference is that Catalin was poured a poured liquid and Bakelite was moulded from a granular powder. Catalin is a brand name developed and trademarked in 1927 by the American Catalin Corporation of New York City, when the patent on Bakelite expired that year. It was used in a variety of applications, including costume jewellery, until the end of the second world war when it became too expensive, as every piece had to be individually cast and polished. Catalin jewellery is often incorrectly referred to as bakelite but has a distinction all of its own and this necklace is prime example of the fashion designs produced in the 1930s.
Vintage Petit Point Tapestry Bag, Austria, 1920s
Price: £55
This is a fine example of the minutely stitched embroidered bags made in Austria during the 1950s. Of sack form, the black ground tapestry canvas is decorated on each side with a profusion of multicoloured flowers including peony and lotus worked in the ‘petit point’ style with tiny stitching within a gold rococo border, the sides and base decorated in the same style. The top and snap clasp are in gilt metal and suspended from a gilt metal chain. The inside is finished in cream coloured silk with two green stitching bordered pockets and a label which reads ‘MADE IN AUSTRIA’. The maker is anonymous but their work rivals that of the well known firm ‘Jolles Original’, founded in Vienna in 1923, whose creations won a Grand Prix award in the 1958 World Exhibition held in Belgium and were sold by premier American Department stores such as Bergdorf Goodman and Saks Fifth Avenue making this bag a desirable addition to a collection of embroidered bags or vintage bags in general.
Novelty Perfume Bottle with Grecian Scenes, late C20th
Price: £15
A ceramic perfume bottle the compressed bulbous body fitted with a high domed cover and a separate ‘dipper’ finial, the rich blue glaze brightly decorated with polychrome and gilt figures in a pseudo classical style reclining and conversing, the interior with traces of perfume cream. The Greek manufacturers of perfumes seem sometimes to have turned to the Classical era as inspiration for the decoration on the vessels containing their products. Similar bottles can be found with packaging labelled ‘Anapal by Anastasios’. The designs are pastiche in the extreme but the effect is opulent and no doubt reflects the luxury of the contents inside!
Black and Gold Copper Glitter Art Glass Scent Bottle, probably Murano late C20th
Price: £55
This is a very stylish scent bottle and stopper with a bulbous body, a concave neck with a flat top rim and a fitted stopper with a ball and pointed top and a long interior seal, the black glass with gilt flecks made from copper in globular and swirling patterns. Almost all the pieces with similar form and decoration are attributed to the Murano glassworks in Venice although none seem to exist with labels which would authenticate this. But the high quality of the glass blowing certainly suggests Murano work and the attribution seems reasonable. This example is particularly pleasing and is in excellent condition with the stopper original and intact.
Vintage Cobalt Blue Glass Perfume Bottle and Stopper, 1930s
Price: £25
A blue glass small bottle and stopper in deep cobalt blue of squared and rounded pyramid form with a stepped concave neck. The shape suggests a perfume bottle and similar examples do exist including one with a gilt Chloé mark which would mean a post 1952 date of manufacture. The technique here, though, resembles the ‘pressed glass’ pieces made in England during the 1930s, for example by the firm Davidson, suggesting a more likely dating to that period. The slightly Art Deco feel to the form fits in with this. While it has slight damage, it is, of course, more unusual to find this shape with its original stopper.
Jean Paul Gaultier Mini Fragrance Set, Le Duo Miniatures Saint Valentin 1990s
Price: £45
In 1993 the famous French fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier launched his range of perfumes and, like the previous lot, this box contains small sample bottles from his range. There are two miniature atomiser bottles, one for a lady, modelled in his typical bust form, and one for a gentleman in a more masculine container. These are flanked by two playing cards with a standing red heart in the centre, aptly justifying the title of the product printed on the lid ‘Le Duo Miniatures Saint Valentin’. This is a gentler example of Gaultier’s style and combines light humour with his typical elegance.
Japanese tooled and painted leather Clutch Bag, 1930s
Price: £45
This is a clutch bag with a Japanese twist. The form is typical, a rectangular wallet with a flap cover and two interior compartments between a zipped central bag, the rear compartment with a fabric pocket containing a slim coin case and the inside of the lid with a mirror, all finished in beige fabric with leather concertina sides. The body of the bag is in ivory leather with elaborate tooled and coloured designs, the front with a town scene including pagoda like buildings, trees by a river bank and a group of townsfolk passing through a traditional arched gate, the back with a country scene including a sampan on a river, over which spans a bridge with fields and trees on the river bans. In both scenes, Mount Fuji can be seen in the background. The flap is secured by a large popper with a celluloid elephant at the bottom edge. The workmanship here is obvious and the bag, which probably dates, like others similar, to the 1930s has survived in fair condition, to be enjoyed and perhaps used today.
Very fine German silver scent bottle, c1900
Price: £180
This is an extremely fine silver scent bottle with the decoration comprising delicately formed flowers and scroll work. It has the Crescent and Crown for Germany and the makers mark 'W' for Christoph Windman. Dating to around 1900 it is also marked '835' which was a typical silver purity in Germany at this period.
Outstanding Suede Lanvin Clutch in original box 1950s
Price: £250
This is a stunning large clutch bag comprising brown kid suede with kid skin edging. it is a basic envelope design with no closure and one interior zip compartment. It is constructed to fold over securely to fit under the arm. A feature of this bag is the Art Nouveau enamel decoration on the front of the bag. The bag is lined in fabric that has a monogram logo. It is worth noting that Lanvin did not manufacture their handbags in the 1950s but rather designed them and outsourced the manufacture as most couture houses did during that time. This bag comes in its original box with the plastic dust jacket intact as well. The labelling 'Made in British Colony Hong Kong' was used principally in the 1950s/1960s which matches the dating here, although some clothing manufacturers continued to employ it into the 1980s. Complete, then, with its original packaging, this is a timeless and elegant bag that is worthy of Audrey Hepburn!
Glossy brown crocodile handbag 1960s
Price: £65
This is a stunning hard side bag that is covered in brown patent croc. It is lined with suede. It is most likely made in England although it is unmarked. The handle has been restored to it's original beauty and is ready for daily use.
Small suede handbag, England 1940s
Price: £25
This is a lovely small handbag in soft suede with a polished leather closure.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE IS FREE UK SHIPPING ON THIS ITEM. For international buyers the shipping cost will be reduced by the UK shipping cost, so don't worry if you are outside the UK, you still receive this benefit!
Massive Grotto style belt buckle c1980
Price: £25
This is a very unique belt buckle that comprises many different shells cast in gilt metal with glass inset stones. This is definitely a statement!
An Unusual Pair of Bradawl Form Sewing Tools, probably Persian C20th
Price: £45
The indented twisting to the ‘blades’ of these pieces suggests a device for making a hole, similar to a gimlet used in woodworking. The size and delicacy of these pieces, though, suggests use with a less robust material, perhaps leather. The handles are elaborately decorated with a raised gilt metal design of bamboo with a bird on a silver metal ground with ‘punched’ decoration reminiscent of Chinese Tang Silver work. An Eastern origin is clear but it is hard to determine the exact provenance. China seems less likely but there are similarities here to Japanese, Indian and Persian work, the latter perhaps being the most likely. Probably early to mid C20th and quite possibly part of a set of sewing tools, so perhaps something for collectors in this field.
Small Art Deco wrist bag with Bakelite closure, French 1920s
Price: £35
This is a lovely small bag that is made from taffeta in the form of a gathered sack with a strap handle. The interesting feature is the large carved Bakelite closure in black and white. It is lined in a woollen fabric as the original lining, traces of which remain, has been removed as it must have degraded. Although quite small for today's requirements still quite usable and definitely a collectible piece!
Bakelite Ivorine Mourning Brooch, British c1930
Price: £25
This is a brooch formed from bakelite intended to mimic ivory with its off white colouring. It shows a hand holding a rose and the slightly antique style reflects the fact that this was originally a Victorian design, intended to be a mourning brooch, the material of which would have been ivory (see image 4 for examples in the British Museum). Developed in New York in 1907 and patented two years later bakelite was the first plastic made from synthetic components. By the 1920s it became a popular material for jewellery and pieces were produced for some years thereafter. Dating here is probably to the 1930s or 1940s.
English Silver pin cushion in the form of a boot, London 1991
Price: £75
This is a charming small pin cushion in the form of a worn out boot. It has a typical blue velvet interior and is very lifelike with a hole in the sole. It has full English hallmarks for London 1991 and a makers' mark 'DB'.
Classic black crocodile handbag 1940s
Price: £75
This is a very classic style bag in a square shape typical of the period. It is lined with black leather and is in excellent condition. The handle has been restored to it's original beauty and is ready for daily use. All you need are some white gloves and you are ready for anything!
Dark chestnut crocodile handbag 1940s
Price: £75
Here we have a soft crocodile handbag with soft leather lining. It has brass fittings and is in excellent condition. The handle has been restored to it's original beauty and is ready for daily use. This bag is not marked but is almost definitely made in England. It is a great size that is large enough for the essentials.
Large python handbag with wood closure detail 1930s
Price: £125
This is a very interesting bag that comprises python skin throughout. It is lined with taffeta and has python on the interior accents. It has an unusual wooden closure and a handle that is also covered in python skin and is in great condition. It is large enough for use any time day or evening.
Vintage Wicker and Plastic Woven Basket with Handles, probably mid C20th
Price: £45
A highly attractive woven basket with a lid and handles, the composition combining both wicker and plastic twine in an attractive combination of textures and colours, the base, the edges of the top and lid and the loop handles finished in wicker and the main body mainly in plastic. There is also a simple plastic twine fastening to keep the cover closed. By repute purchased in France, it is extremely hard to assign a country of origin to this piece, but the use of woven plastic suggests a dating to the 1950s, a time when the well known 'Lloyd Loom' items enjoyed great popularity. The condition of this basket is excellent and it is quite sturdy so could be an eye catching accompaniment to a summer excursion!
Moroccan tooled leather bag c1960
Price: £65
This is a wonderful tooled leather bag that has Morrocan designs all over. It has outer pockets on both sides with a large inner compartment. It is lined in leather and has two grab handles.
English silk handbag with embroidered Chinoiserie design c1950
Price: £95
This is a beautiful bag comprising a silk body that has an unusual embroidered design that depicts a Chinese lady in a field of floral designs. It is fitted with a gold tone frame and has a label 'Made In England' 'LKW', a manufacturer known for producing affordable and attractive evening wear handbags.
Fun 1970s button bangle
Price: £25
This is a super bangle comprising buttons encased in lucite. it has a rather homemade quality so it might have been made from a kit. This just adds to the vintage look and makes it even more fun! :)
Hollywood Regency Ormolu and Glass Scent Bottle, second half C20th
Price: £95
This is a classic example of the decorative pieces produced in the ‘Hollywood Regency’ style which evolved from the work of designers furnishing the homes of film stars and actors from the 1920s onwards. Opulence was the key here with recollections of and variations on the design styles of earlier years particularly those of the rococo era. Dressing table pieces were made to be intentionally luxurious with elaborate gilt metal decoration and bevelled glass panels combining to produce ornaments of showpiece quality. The scent bottle here has two oval bevelled glass panels set in a gilt metal case with elaborately cast sides, a spreading foot and a crown knob stopper, all with twisting and interlocking stylised floral decoration. The body of the piece was refillable and the stopper has a glass rod for application. Similar pieces were made by the New York firm ‘Stylebuilt’ which was founded in 1946; many carry an impressed mark but some have just a paper label reading ‘Stylebuilt Accessories’ ‘NEW YORK’ ‘’24 K GOLD PLATED’ ‘GUARANTEED NOT TO TARNISH’. The style here is so close that we may well have a genuine ‘Stylebuilt’ accessory here missing its original paper label, but there is no certain proof of this. Accessories from the firm seem to date from the 1950s to the 1970s and this is most likely the time of production of this particular piece. It survives in perfect condition with the gilt work bright and shining, definitely living up to the claim of remaining untarnished, and is a fine memento of an extravagant style, once so popular.
Large suede pouch bag with concertina opening c1930
Price: £65
This is a wonderfully large handbag comprising a brown suede pouch with a brass opening. It is unlined.
Maud Frizon Handbag c2000
Price: £150
This is a lovely calfskin shoulder bag inspired by the well known shoe designer Maud Frizon. It has multiple interior compartments and a flap over front with stud detail. The zip pulls are tiny shoes with her initials MF and her name also appears on the label inside. Maud Frizon began designing and making shoes in 1969 and her innovative and hand crafted designs were an immediate success. Bridgette Bardot was a regular customer and it was said of her shoes that they 'are to footwear what Dom Perignon is to champagne'. Frizon founded her company with her husband Luigi De Marco and they worked together for thirty years before selling the business to Helene Wajnblum-Liu and her husband in 1999. The new owners broadened the range to include handbags and expanded the chain of Frizon boutiques to include Paris, Lyon, New York, Beijing and Hong Kong where they are still to be found today.
Micro bead silver mounted Flapper Bag, 1920s
Price: £125
This is a striking example of the beaded bags which were made in the 1920s as a classic ‘flapper’ accessory. The long rectangular shape narrows towards the top where it is suspended from a silver mount and at the bottom is the commonly found beaded tasselled fringe. The design, intricately worked in multicoloured microbeads and repeated front and back, has repeating leaf shape stylised floral panels on a terracotta ground. The silver mount displays finely cast decoration of scrolling ribbon work and hanging beads and is secured by a press button fitting. The suspension rings and their links are also finely cast. The tasselled fringe repeats the colours of the main design. The silver is most likely continental and many of these bags were made in Germany which may well be the case here. The quality is clearly above average and its owner would have certainly stood out in a crowd!
Sack form plastic beaded bag, English, 1950s
Price: £65
Very much of its era, this is an unusual bag of sack form comprised of intricately strung small plastic beads in an openwork design with vertical beige repeating diamonds alternating with diagonal bands of beige, pink, purple and brown, the top with horizontal rows of beige beads, each side with a metal rod covered in white plastic cording and fitted with clear dark beige loop handles, the base in wood. The use of plastic components and the general form of the design suggests the 1950s or possibly early 1960s and manufacture in England. While there are other plastic formed bags from the same era (another can be seen elsewhere on this site) there does not seem to be any parallel for this example. But it is distinctively ‘retro’ and has survived in excellent condition making it very much a collector’s accessory.
Vintage black crocodile Handbag, Italian, 1980s
Price: £150
While lacking the branding of some of its contemporaries, notably those produced by Gucci, this elegant handbag is certainly a match for them in quality. Made from fine crocodile skin, soft with detailed patterning and carefully stitched (see image 3) it is of the traditional ‘bellows’ form with three interior compartments, one of them zip fastened (see image 7), and a strap handle. The fastenings of the handle and the flap buckle are in gilt metal of geometric almost art deco like designs and the interior is lined in leather.The work is Italian craftsmanship at its best and dating is probably to the 1980s after which these unbranded bags were no longer produced. An elegant accessory in its time, it would be an elegant accessory now.
Large amber cabochon cuff Bracelet, c1970
Price: £95
This is a lovely cuff bracelet with a delicate floral design. The star of the show is the large Baltic amber cabachon; it is extremely good quality as indicated by its inner glow. Marked '925', this elegant piece is most likely from Denmark or one of the Baltic states.
Monumental Mille Fiore glass bead necklace c1970
Price: £175
This is a very large long necklace comprising different types of Mille Fiore Venetian glass beads. The largest beads measure 31 mm these are the joins for a double strand of round and tubular beads on the higher part with barrel shaped beads on the lower part of the necklace. For vintage jewellery collectors this is one in a million. And for fashionistas this would go with everything. :)
Taxco rose station necklace c1940
Price: £150
This is a beautiful necklace comprising stations of very finely modelled roses alternating with bar links that encircle the whole necklace and are joined with a hook clasp. It is marked 'B-27' (for the maker) and ' 925' and dates to the mid twentieth century.
Perfume Bottle and Stopper, Island Studio, Guernsey, late C20th
Price: £30
A perfume bottle and stopper, the globular almost spherical body with short collar fitted with a rounded stopper, the glass blown with purple and white flecking effects merging into a swirling design at the top which continues to the stopper. Similar pieces can be found with the label 'Island Glass, Guernsey', and one of these also has the moulded mark on the bottom which appears here and may represent trees and waves. Island Glass was a glass studio based in Guernsey which seems to have had a very short existence in the late C20th. It is believed that one of the employees there was Chris Dodds who was later to set up his own studio in Selkirk, Scotland. Little is known of this firm but they were clearly capable of making pieces of high quality and appeal.
Art Deco style Glass Box and Cover decorated with a dancing Ballerina, mid C20th
Price: £35
An opaque cream coloured circular glass box and cover, the bulbous body with high domed lid which is decorated with a dark grisaille dancing ballerina poised on one leg with grass below and hanging willow above within a yellow scalloped border which is repeated on the base. The style of decoration clearly suggests the 1930s and this piece probably dates to that era although there is no certain proof of this. Presumably a powder box it retains great charm and could well find a home in a contemporary setting.
Art Deco style Glass Box and Cover decorated with a dancing Ballerina, mid C20th
Price: £35
An opaque cream coloured circular glass box and cover, the bulbous body with high domed lid which is decorated with a dark grisaille dancing ballerina poised on one leg with grass below and hanging willow above within a yellow scalloped border which is repeated on the base. The style of decoration clearly suggests the 1930s and this piece probably dates to that era although there is no certain proof of this. Presumably a powder box it retains great charm and could well find a home in a contemporary setting.
Art Deco Style Malachite Glass Box and Cover, Hoffmann & Schlevogt, C20th
Price: £55
Malachite glass aims to imitate the mineral malachite, a green copper carbonate mineral which occurs naturally. It was made by many of the glass manufacturers in Britain and Europe in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries but large quantities especially were produced in Bohemia, now part of the Czech republic, and most of these were created from moulds produced by the designer Curt Schlevogt.
Heinrich Hoffmann (1875 – 1939) and Henry Schlevogt (1904 – 1984) were relatives as well as business partners, Schlevogt having married Hoffman’s daughter. They worked together on a variety of designs and from the moulds they produced came pieces exclusively pressed by the family glassworks of Josef Riedel established in Polaun (Polubný), Bohemia. The collection was marketed under the brand name ‘Ingrid’ and had an immediate success in Europe and the United States, being introduced at the Spring Trade Fair in Leipzig in 1934 and later in the same year presented at the Chicago World’s Fair. Hoffmann died around the time of the beginning of the second world war but Schlevogt remained in Bohemia until his capture by the invading Red Army in 1944. Eventually rescued through the intervention of influential friends, he settled in Paris and in the 1950s founded a highly successful wholesale business trading in crystals and glassware which he sold in 1972. The Czechoslovak government meanwhile nationalised the glass industry after World War II and some of Schlevogt’s moulds were reused with pressings known from the 1970s made as before at the glassworks of Josef Riedel.
Dating of the pieces is extremely difficult since the later versions resemble the earlier ones so closely and there are few firm guidelines. But the example here, even if there is the possibility that it does not date to the 1930s, is an extremely accurate reflection of the model types produced. The design is striking with the malachite effect glass formed into a two section box the deep base fitted with a shallow domed lid and both parts decorated with naked ladies swimming amidst waves in a swirling design of life and movement. The joins of the moulds can be clearly seen at the sides (see images 8 & 9). The style is quintessentially Art Deco and this is a ‘must have’ for collectors of pieces from that era.
Pink pressed glass dressing table set, Libochoviche, Czech, 1950s
Price: £35
A five piece dressing table or trinket set made from press moulded pink glass and comprising a tray, a pair of candlesticks, a covered pot and a ring stand, all elaborately modelled with repeating ball borders. The designs for this set can be found in a pattern book for the Libochovice glassworks in Czecholslovakia which apparently dates to some time before 1958. The tray is pattern number 3020 and the other pieces have numbers between 3021 and 3024, there being two numbers for the covered pot which was made in different sizes. The Libochoviche factory was founded in 1912 by H. Feigl and J. Moráve and after an initial period of producing mainly utilitarian pieces turned to the creation of innovative decorative items, mostly in pressed glass for which it had perfected the techniques and in combination with professional artists of the day, maintaining a highly popular output of designs until its closure in 2006. In 1945 it became part of the Sklo Union cooperative along with other manufactures of pressed glass such as Rosice and Hermanova Hut whose work can be seen elsewhere on this site.
Blue Ground Empire Style Powder Box and Cover, Jean Pouyat, Limoges circa 1900
Price: £75
This is a fine quality powder box and cover made by the firm Jean Pouyat who were based in Limoges, France. The piece comprises two flattened bulbous sections which form the base and lid. The rich deep blue glaze, sometimes known as Mazarine blue (the name possibly deriving from Cardinal Mazarin, prime minister of France, 1601-62) is combined with heavily modelled gilt decoration of repeating laurel leaves, the imperial symbolism continued in the gilt eagle with arrows on the lid which was the military standard of France in Napoleonic times. On the underneath can be seen a slightly worn gilt mark with a stylised brick structure (a kiln?) with the letter ‘P’ visible to the right and ‘FRANCE’ below. Other clearer versions of the mark show a ‘J’ to the left and this was a factory mark for Jean Pouyat a celebrated manufacturer of porcelain at Limoges in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. His work was of high quality and exported worldwide, particularly to America. Other pieces, for example a comport, are known in this pattern which must have been a deluxe production in its time and retains its opulence now.
Art Deco Catalin Bakelite necklace, American c1930
Price: £125
This is a fabulous necklace comprising very large mustard coloured catalin beads in tubular, ovoid and globular shapes. Catalin is a form of plastic that is comtemporary with Bakelite. They are very similar as they are both composed of phenol and formeldehyde. The main difference is that Catalin was poured a poured liquid and Bakelite was moulded from a granular powder. Catalin is a brand name developed and trademarked in 1927 by the American Catalin Corporation of New York City, when the patent on Bakelite expired that year. It was used in a variety of applications, including costume jewellery, until the end of the second world war when it became too expensive, as every piece had to be individually cast and polished. Catalin jewellery is often incorrectly referred to as bakelite but has a distinction all of its own and this necklace is prime example of the fashion designs produced in the 1930s.
Five Murano glass fish pendants
Price: £25
This is a rather random lot comprising five small Murano glass pendants. Each one has a hole in the fin so they are all ready to be worn as necklaces or to be put together as one fabulous necklace. It is all up to you! :)
French Regency style Bevelled Amber Glass & Filigree Ormolu Casket, mid twentieth century
Price: £55
A Regency style bevelled amber glass & gilt filigree ormolu Casket, the pentagonal body with five ovoid amber glass panels with bevelled edges, the borders with an arrow form repeating geometric design, all set between gilt filigree work of stylised foliage, the three spreading feet also with floral gilt filigree work, the hinged lid with a similar circular amber glass panel surrounded by a repeating design of stylised gilt leaves, the interior lined in gold velvet studded with tiny gilt nails.
Various pieces in this style where amber glass panels are combined with elaborate gilt metal work can be found. Most were intended as dressing table ornaments, as here. Sometimes termed 'Hollywood', after the American made products in this style of which Lot 1 in this sale is a prime specimen, these items were designed to add a touch of luxury to the bedroom. They are usually regarded as French and thought to have been made between the 1920s and 1940s. This is a particularly nice example with no damage to either the glass or the metalwork.
Czech rhinestone jewelled glass metal filigree Perfume Bottle and Stopper, C20th
Price: £45
This is an elaborately decorated perfume bottle of a type produced by Czech workshops in a variety of similar but differing designs. The blue glass bottle is encased with elaborate gilt filigree work which does not cover the entirety of the reverse as is quite common. The intricate filigree design is enhanced by studded rhinestones, or imitation diamonds, in greens and blues, which adds to the opulence of the piece. There is a removable gilt cap fitted with a glass wand which remains intact. Definitely an addition to the handbag for a very special occasion!
Pink Alabaster Box and Cover, Italy late c20th
Price: £25
An attractive box and cover of circular form made from pink alabaster, each section mounted in gilt metal and attached by a hinge, the lid with a finely detailed design of flowering lotus. Italy is a prime source for alabaster and many similar boxes have a sticker on the base saying ‘Made in Italy’ giving us the country of origin here. Dating is probably to the 1980s/1990s.
Pink Alabaster Box and Cover, Italy late c20th
Price: £25
An attractive box and cover of circular form made from pink alabaster, each section mounted in gilt metal and attached by a hinge, the lid with a finely detailed design of flowering lotus. Italy is a prime source for alabaster and many similar boxes have a sticker on the base saying ‘Made in Italy’ giving us the country of origin here. Dating is probably to the 1980s/1990s.
Oriental porcelain European Style Heart Shape Box and Cover, OC & CO, late C20th
Price: £15
A ceramic box and cover of heart shape, gilt metal mounted with a hinge and clasp, the base plain and the lid with a geometric design in blue and gold, a stylised floral spray within a panel set on a tasselled cushion with geometric patterns and a repeating ‘C’ shape border, the base with a gilt mark of a crown above a twisted robe with the letters ‘O C & CO’. While European in appearance, this box is, in fact Oriental and possibly Japanese of fairly recent manufacture. Although many of the Staffordshire potteries used a three loop knot, often combined with a crown, as a factory mark, this version does not appear any English pieces and is a pastiche, so far removed from the parallels that it can hardly have been intended to deceive. Various European style pieces with the same mark (or a similar one incorporating the name ‘Roselle’) can be found in a variety of shapes and all with elaborate decoration in the style of their models. The boxes are particularly attractive and the shape and decoration here is appealing.