Blaise Bontems, an Extremely Fine Rare Automaton Double Singing Bird Music Box

A rare and important French "Japonsime" Emile Galle Ormolu-Mounted Double Carp Fish Pink-Glass vase, circa 1879, retailed by L'Escalier De Cristal, Paris ...

Placido Zuloaga, An extremely rare Spanish gold and silver damascened window frame, in the Alhambra / Islamic taste, circa 1880. The interior is lined and fitted with an orientalist artwork throughout. Signed PZ on the reverse. Placido Zuloaga was a renowned Spanish metalworker and damascene artist known for his exceptional skills in working with gold and silver and for creating intricate and ornate designs on metal surfaces using a technique called damascening. One of Zuloaga's works is this rare gold and silver damascened frame that he created in the late 19th century. The frame is decorated with intricate designs in silver and gold, creating a stunning contrast that is characteristic of Zuloaga's work. The frame is a remarkable example of Zuloaga's artistry and skill, as well as his mastery of the damascening technique. The technique involves inlaying silver or gold wire into the surface of the metal, creating intricate and detailed designs that are both beautiful and durable. Zuloaga's work was highly sought after during his lifetime and is still highly valued today. His pieces are considered to be some of the finest examples of damascene artistry in the world, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence metalworkers and artists today. His works are in private collections and in museums worldwide. Comparative Literature: James D. Lavin, The Art and Tradition of the Zuloagas, Spanish Damascene...

An 18K Gold and Gem Set Bust of a King, by George Weil London, circa 1970 This magnificent 18K gold and gem-set bust of a king, crafted by George Weil in London, stands as an embodi...

A Rare and Historic 1859 Elkington Silvered Bronze Victorian Centerpiece with Cut-Glass Bowl. Presenting a magnificent Victorian silvered bronze centerpiece of unmatched rarity and importance, crafted by the renowned Elkington Mason Co., Birmingham, in 1859. This exceptional work, complete with its original cut-glass bowl, epitomizes 19th-century British craftsmanship and artistry. Hallmarked to the base, this centerpiece showcases intricate sculptural details, embodying a high level of technical prowess and aesthetic refinement characteristic of Elkington's celebrated works. The centerpiece's striking design features three meticulously rendered figures—a young hunter, a friar, and a fishmonger—each embodying elements of Victorian life and industry. At their feet, a loyal spaniel and various game highlight the naturalistic approach to the composition, enhanced by the masterful chasing and dynamic form. This sculptural ensemble rests on an elaborately decorated base, exuding both grandeur and narrative depth. Adding profound historical value are two engraved plaques. The first, dated “January 28, 1859,” reads: “Presented to William Johnson Esq. as a token of respect esteem by the workpeople in the employ of Messrs Richard Johnson Brother, Manchester.” The second, an inscription from 1941, states: “Worshipful Company of Tin Plate Workers, Alias Wire Workers of the City of London, Presented by Arthur Laurence Johnson M.A., Grandson of William Johnson, both Wire Workers, with his Daughter Eleanor Morton Johnson, a Freeman of the Company, to commemorate his Mastership 1941-42.” These inscriptions chart a rich lineage, connecting the Johnson family to pivotal moments in industrial history. William Johnson, alongside his brother Richard, assumed leadership of a wire-drawing firm in 1838, which would later become Richard Johnson Nephew Ltd. Their contributions included providing galvanized armored wire for the historic 1857 transatlantic telegraph cable...