Continental Europe - Collectibles and Curiosities

The '50s and '60s archives reveal a selection of intricately designed pieces from the world of sports and leisure. Inspired by these items' playful spirit and curated details, this N...

Rare round cardboard scope with four extensions and brass ferrules, german manufacture from the early 19th century. Excellent state of conservation. Maximum length cm 95 - 37.4 in,...

Celestial table globe Charles-François Delamarche Paris, 1791 It measures: 17.13 in in height, Ø max 27.7 in; the sphere Ø 7.09 in (h 43.5 cm x Ø max 27.7 cm; the sphere Ø 18 cm). W...

This miniature rattan Peacock, also known as the Emanuelle chair, offers a refined take on an iconic silhouette. Crafted in woven rattan with an airy lattice back and sculptural pedestal base, it translates the dramatic peacock form into an elegant small-scale accent. The piece presents very good condition, with stable structure and an attractive, even tone to the cane. Ideal as a decorative object on a console, bookshelf, or desk, it also suits styling for boutiques, photo shoots, or display with small figures and art objects. The neutral palette complements both contemporary and vintage interiors, from minimalist spaces to layered bohemian rooms. A charming collectible for design enthusiasts, this miniature Peacock chair...

100 of the most legendary and coveted motorcycles of all time Dream Rides: The most spectacular bikes on the planet. From the 1894 Hildebrand & Wolfmüller to the 2020 Aston Martin AMB 001, this book lavishly explores 100 of the most desirable motorcycles to have ever sped thrillingly around a circuit or along an open road. From pioneering record-breakers, luxury tourers, and legendary roadracers to GP-winning machines, iconic superbikes, and exotic customs, this book celebrates motorcycle design and engineering at its highest level. Many examples are from acclaimed private collections and very rarely seen. Others are the all-out stars of renowned motorcycle museums—such as the 1938 Brough Superior “Golden Dream” or the 1957 MV Agusta 500 4C, which took John Surtees...

Austro-Hungarian period safe F. WERTHEIM & C. with key, 1800s Style Vintage Periodo del design Before 1890s Production Period Before 1890s Year Manufactured 1800 Maker Wertheim & C. ...

Color print from the 1950s depicting the SAML S 2 single-engine biplane, produced in 1916 by the Italian company Società Anonima Meccanica Lombarda (SAML). It was a training and reco...

Bowl Fontana Arte Italy, 1950 Chiseled Crystal Excellent Conditions Vintage Original

Cabinet of curiosities of plaster figures and pieces in a wooden drawer. Made in traditional Catalan atelier in Olot, Spain, circa 1950. Olot has a long tradition in the produc...

This rare vintage models of botanical scientific specimen depicts mushrooms native to Central Europe. This kind of items are used as teaching material in German schools or as showpie...

18K gold and tortoiseshell snuffbox with an oval miniature on ivory. Round in shape with a flat surface, this snuffbox features a concave profile and a gold hinge recess on the back. The interior is entirely in smooth gold, both at the base and the lid. The top is adorned with a polished and finely chased gold border. At the center is a square gold frame...

A well-made mounted desk model of an aero plane/private jet. Professionally mounted on an oak stand. Unknown Scandinavian maker, circa 1970-1975. It’s made...

Solid wood ebonized stick with 835 silver mount, circa 1900. Very noble and high quality silver mount. Age-appropriate condition. (V - 177).

Eagle shape made from 800 silver bentwood extremely finely processed (V-214).

A beautiful golden pig candy container or container with secret chamber. Made from white metal, hand painted with cold paint like the bronze Vienna minia...

Charming wooden rocking horse beautifully painted in nice colours in very good condition. There are few cracks but they do not affect the stability of the piece. Belgium, circa 1920.

This beautiful snuff box is made from sterling silver. Its inside is gold plated. Lid and bottom are covered in the same floral design reminiscent of a bouquet or floral ornament. Th...

Weights sport set includes pairs of 1kg, 3kg, and 5 kg weights. Base in solid bronze in matt finish. Featuring walnut wood grips and fine leather inserts, with high quality grain...

Map of India and Southeast Asia from Ptolemaic Geography – 16th Century Woodcut This remarkable hand-colored woodcut map, originally designed according to the geographical knowledge...

"Simultané" is a deck of playing cards designed by the French-Ukrainian artist Sonia Delaunay in 1964, in collaboration with Bielefelder Spielkarten GmbH, to celebrate the 10th anniv...

Royal Dutch Airforce Model 1964 Officer's Dagger 'KLu Officiers Ponjaard, 1964' Royal Dutch Airforce model 1964 officer's dagger. (KLu officiers ponjaard 1964). In original box and it's original black leather scabbard with gild fittings and the Royal Dutch Airforce buying ticket The dagger is marked with the sitting squirrel logo of the Company name " Carl Eickhorn" Solingen. The dagger has black diagonally angled ribbed grip with double twisted brass wire winding. The gilt pommel has the form of the Dutch Royal Crown...

Imaginary Plan of Jerusalem by Blome after Villalpando, 1689 This impressive antique engraving presents an imaginary plan of Jerusalem by Richard Blome, published in 1689. The engra...

Fantastic looking vintage anatomical model of a full human body on a black granite base. The height of the model with base (4 cm) is 82 cm. Unfortunately, removable parts are missing.

Large Antique Photo Album with Wooden Carved Cover, Brienz ca. 1900 A lovely antique photo album featuring a lindenwood carved cover depicting a hunte...

Walking Stick with Seat Measurements: H. 89 cm / seat dimensions: 15 x 44 cm - H. 74 cm Era: early 1900s Origin: Germany Wood: Metal and leath...

SUMO-sized Collector’s Edition limited to 918 copies (No. 81–998), each signed by His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, with a bookstand designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect and ...

1950s Faventia organ Spanish organ made in Barcelona by: Faventia it is in good general condition, complete and functional. Good condition.

1773 Bellin map of Persia, Gujarat and Malabar coasts with Arabia and Maldives Description: This finely engraved and delicately hand-colored 18th-century map titled Kaart van de Kusten van Persië, Guzaratte en Malabar was produced by the eminent French cartographer Jacques-Nicolas Bellin and engraved by Jakob van der Schley. It was published in 1773 in Amsterdam by E. van Harrevelt and D. Changuion, as part of a Dutch edition of Bellin’s maritime atlas focused on the East Indies and the Indian Ocean. The map presents the coastline bordering the Arabian Sea, extending from the Persian Gulf and parts of the Arabian Peninsula to the shores of Gujarat and the Malabar Coast in southwestern India. It provides a detailed representation of the coastlines of Persia (modern-day Iran), the western coast of India, and a portion of southern Arabia including the Oman Peninsula. Coastal towns, rivers, ports, and geographical landmarks are clearly labeled, including prominent trading centers like Surat, Goa, Calicut, Cochin, and Cape Comorin (now Kanyakumari). Additionally, the map shows the Laccadive Islands (Laka Dives) and the Maldives (Maldivische Eilanden), with attention to navigational details such as shoals, sandbanks, and anchor points. A large compass rose and clear latitude and longitude markings enhance its utility as a navigational aid. A highly decorative title cartouche at lower left features maritime iconography such as sea creatures, a fountain, and shells. An inset legend beneath the map provides explanations in Dutch for the symbols used to indicate bays, capes, ports, forts, islands, and towns. This is a copperplate engraving printed on laid paper with full original hand coloring. It retains its original fold lines as issued. The condition is generally good, with minor age toning and a few light spots in the margins. No repairs or restoration are visible. The paper is strong, and the impression remains crisp and clear. This historical map is a significant and attractive example of 18th-century European cartography, especially valued for its depiction of maritime trade regions and coastal geography during the age of exploration and colonial expansion. To frame this 1773 Bellin map attractively and safely: - Use acid-free matting in a neutral tone like cream or antique white - Consider double matting with a subtle inner color that complements the map - Choose a simple wooden frame in walnut, cherry, or aged oak for a classic look - Use UV-protective glass or acrylic to prevent fading - For a full display, consider float mounting to show the edges and fold lines - Allow 2 to 3 inch mat margins to balance the composition and enhance presentation Keywords: Bellin map 1773, van der Schley, Persia coast map, Gujarat map, Malabar map...

Title: 18th-Century Map of the Eastern Roman Empire by Henri Chatelain, c. 1719 Description: This intricately detailed map, titled *Nouvelle Carte pour Servir à l'Histoire de l'Empi...

1857 Map of Southern South America – Argentina, Chile, Rio de Janeiro Original antique map titled “Der Südliche Theil von Süd-America” (The Southern Part of South America), publishe...

Plan of Baltimore City Map, USA c.1870 – Hand-Colored Street Plan This is a finely engraved and hand-colored street plan titled Plan of Baltimore, published in the United States cir...

A petite antique German half doll with original lace dress on wire base. She is holding the hand away. It is marked with mold number 7125/5....

Ancient Map of Palestine or the Holy Land by D'Anville (1767) This detailed map, created by the renowned French cartographer Jean Baptiste Bourguignon d'Anville in 1767, depicts the...

This exquisite reverse glass painting from the early 19th century features Saint Anne, a revered figure in Christian tradition, known as the mother of the Virgin Mary and patron sain...

For the collectors of rare and ready to use Gothic antiques. These beautiful and all handcrafted Gothic Revival picture frames with Biblical texts in Latin are an absolute joy to ow...

Wooden sled with metal runners under the rockers. The legs and rockers have the original red paint and the seat has its original dark stained wood with ve...

Rare Limited Edition GUCCI x adidas golf ball case handbag or shoulder bag in green and white color ways, with removable and adjustable shoulder strap and push closure / made in Ital...

Vintage tobacco pipe with a classic billiard shape, crafted in England. The bowl is cylindrical with a slightly rounded rim and shows some darkening from use. The wood has a warm, re...

Take flight into aviation history with the iconic 1960's Finnair Aero Caravelle airplane model, meticulously crafted by Schaarschmidt Modelbau in Berlin. This exquisite model pays homage to an era of innovation and elegance in air travel, capturing the essence of the pioneering spirit that defined the jet age. Crafted with precision and attention to detail, this model features a solid aluminum body and plate metal wings, reflecting the unparalleled craftsmanship of Schaarschmidt Modelbau. Every curve and contour is faithfully reproduced, allowing you to admire the sleek design and aerodynamic grace of the Sud Aviation SE210 Caravelle, the world's first short/medium range jet airliner. Finnair, known for its daring spirit and commitment to innovation, was the first small airline to embrace the jet age in 1960 with its fleet of Caravelle passenger jets. This model celebrates that historic moment...

Deeply carved, extra large size, Gothic Revival corbel, bracket with a stunning patina. Finding unique antiques that have just that little bit more than your average is what we alwa...

Promised Land of Canaan – Antique Map of Israel with Biblical Scenes, van Jagen This remarkable antique map titled Het beloofde landt Canaan doorwandelt...

A beautiful hand carved coquille nut egg box. Beautiful carving, great patina, unscrews at center to open. The original use was a flea trap, things were d...

Brass round-section telescope with leather-covered handle, two-extension focus. English manufacture from the mid-19th century. Complete with base for support made of custom wood and ...

Antique Map of Illinois – Railroads, Cities & Counties, 1888 This finely detailed antique map shows the state of Illinois in the late 19th century, engraved and published in 1888 by...

Meaningful and exceptional quality leaded glass wall fixture, with painted Madonna & Child. This work of religious art from the early 1950s combines masterful craftsmanship with tim...

Very elegant Radiator Emblem, Aero-Club de Cannes, France from the 1930-40s. Made in chrome with gilt details. Number 111 in the Aero-Club de Cannes. Wear consistent with age and use

Title: Map of Gard France with Pont du Gard and Wine Regions by Vuillemin, 19th c Description: This finely engraved 19th-century map of the department of Gard in southern France was...

Mid Century solid metal Brutalist crucifix. Appears to be either brass or brass effect. Name on rear: Frick Angela (assumed to be creator or owner o...

Prototype of a bracelet in the shape of a tetrahedron, made of burnished brass. One side of the solid is a brass plate shaped like an equilateral triangle; the other three sides are ...

Breitling - The Book, hardcover, English edition, 2009. 336 pages with ca 450 images. By Genoud, Herve. Printed in Switzerland. A specialist in chronographs and technical watches...

Cross of caravaca xvii century Very beautiful cross of Caravaca made in bronze. 17th century. Measurements: 12 x 6cm Good condition.

PAIR OF MONUMENTAL CARVED PANELS FROM THE 18TH CENTURY IMPORTANT SPANISH BAROQUE 18TH CENTURY WOODEN PANELS ATTRIBUTED TO: Luis Bonifás y...

The map of Batavia (modern-day Jakarta) from 1681, attributed to Frederick de Wit holds significant historical importance for several reasons: Historical Context 1. Colonial Era: This map dates back to the Dutch colonial era when Batavia served as the administrative and commercial hub of the Dutch East India Company (VOC). The VOC was a powerful trading entity that played a crucial role in the global spice trade and colonization in Southeast Asia. 2. Strategic Importance: Batavia was strategically located on the northwestern coast of Java, providing the Dutch with a critical base for their maritime operations. The city became the center of Dutch political and military control in the region. Cartographic Significance 1. Detailed Urban Layout: The map meticulously details the layout of Batavia, including its fortifications, canals, streets, and significant buildings. This level of detail provides insights into the urban planning and architectural styles of the period. 2. Military Engineering: The fortifications shown on the map illustrate the advanced military engineering techniques used by the Dutch to protect their valuable colony. The walls, bastions, and moats indicate the strategic considerations taken to defend against potential invasions. 3. Maritime Activity: The depiction of ships in the harbor highlights Batavia's role as a major maritime center. The VOC's fleets were essential for trade routes connecting Europe, Africa, and Asia, making Batavia a crucial node in global commerce. Artistic and Cultural Value 1. Artistic Elements: The decorative elements, such as the lion holding a shield and the intricate cartouches, reflect the artistic trends of Dutch Golden Age cartography. These embellishments were not only informative but also served to display the cartographer's skill and the map's prestige. 2. Cultural Exchange: Maps like this one provide evidence of cultural exchange between the Dutch and the indigenous populations of Java. The blending of Dutch and local influences can be seen in various aspects of the map and the architecture of the city. Rarity and Preservation 1. Rarity: Maps from the 17th century, especially those in good condition, are relatively rare and highly valued by collectors and historians. Each map provides a unique snapshot of historical geography and urban development. 2. Preservation of History: This map serves as a historical document, preserving knowledge about Batavia's cityscape, infrastructure, and colonial governance. It helps historians and scholars understand the socio-economic and political dynamics of the period. Conclusion The map of Batavia from 1681 is special due to its detailed depiction of one of the most important colonial cities in Southeast Asia during the Dutch Golden Age. It reflects the strategic, economic, and cultural significance of Batavia, serving as a valuable resource for understanding the history of Dutch colonialism and its global impact. The map's artistry and precision make it an important artifact in the history of cartography. --------------- The map is an original and historical map of Batavia (present-day Jakarta) on the island of Java, dated 1681. There are several details to consider when evaluating its origins and possible authorship: 1. **Style and Detail**: The intricate details and style are reminiscent of maps created by Frederick de Wit, a prominent Dutch cartographer and engraver of the 17th century. He was known for his detailed city maps and sea charts. 2. **Lack of Signature**: The absence of "F. de Wit, Excudit" could indicate either an omission or a different engraver. However, it is essential to note that some maps from that period were reproduced or copied by other engravers and cartographers. This was not uncommon, as map-making was a collaborative effort, and copies of popular maps were frequently made. 3. **Map Characteristics**: - The depiction of ships and the detailed fortifications are typical of Dutch cartography in the late 17th century. - The decorative elements, such as the lion holding a shield, are also characteristic of Dutch map engravers. 4. **Other Possible Engravers**: While Frederick de Wit is a strong candidate, other notable Dutch engravers from that period include Joan Blaeu and Willem Janszoon Blaeu. They also produced highly detailed maps and could potentially be the creators or inspirers of this map. To determine the precise authorship, you might consider: - **Comparing** this map with other confirmed works of Frederick de Wit and his contemporaries to identify stylistic similarities and differences. - **Historical Records**: Consulting historical records or publications related to Dutch cartography in the 17th century might provide more context or even direct references to this particular map. If you have access to additional details or higher-resolution images of specific sections, it might help further pinpoint the map's origin and authorship. ------------- Frederick de Wit (1629–1706) was a prominent Dutch cartographer, engraver, and publisher known for his detailed and decorative maps, atlases, and globes. He played a significant role in the Dutch Golden Age of cartography, contributing to the wealth of geographic knowledge and artistic achievement during this period. Here are key aspects of his life and work: ### Biography - **Early Life**: Frederick de Wit was born in Gouda, Netherlands, in 1629. Little is known about his early years, but he moved to Amsterdam, the epicenter of Dutch cartography, in the mid-17th century. - **Career Beginnings**: De Wit began his career as an engraver and publisher, initially producing maps that were reissues of earlier works by other cartographers, such as Joan Blaeu and Willem Janszoon Blaeu. ### Contributions to Cartography - **Mapmaking**: De Wit was known for his meticulous attention to detail and artistic flair. He produced a wide range of maps, including world maps, regional maps, city plans, and maritime charts...

Floral Buildings. Art Nouveau marvels across Europe. At the turn of the 20th century, architecture took an imaginative leap. As new construction materials and technologies met such...

Antique print titled 'Castiglione'. Original antique print of the Battle of Castiglione. The Battle of Castiglione saw the French Army of Italy under General Napoleon Bonaparte a...

A decorative Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Coeur and Arc de Triomphe souvenir building sculpture. Some wear with a nice patina, but this is old-age. Made of metal and a marble base. This item ...

Refined collection of original Art Nouveau brooches, crafted between the late 19th and early 20th century. Each piece is unique, finely hand-worked in gilt metal, and adorned with g...

Chrome-plated brass round section telescope with leather-covered handle. Focus at a stretch. English manufacture of the early 1900s. Complete with base for support made of custom w...

Large Liturgical Chalice in sterling silver. The base is finely embossed with the face of Christ, grapes, vine leaves and ears. The workmanship is h...

This old hand carved wooden Soldier and horse on wooden wheels Toy, was made in the Ore Mountains (Erzgebirge) in Germany. It remains fully functional. Crafted in Germany during the ...