18th century (can be as early as 17th) iron Japanese sword tsuba of square shape with cutouts in the corners, making it appear as a cross - probably a “hidden Christian” reference. The body is decorated on both sides with stylized undulating water dragon with gilded horns and whiskers, and three raised ideograms (different on each side). The plate is very thick (5/16 inches or 9 mm at the edge) so the tsuba is pleasantly heavy. Elegantly designed powerful piece in great condition. Height 2 9...
Set of 6 Belle Epoque cast 950 silver candlesticks in Louis XVI style, ca 1910. Made by J. Gruhier in France, ca 1910. Each: Spool socket with stepped and detachable bobeche. Tapering paneled shaft with stippled and elongated egg-and-dart; domed foot on octagonal base. Gadrooning and reeding. Substantial and elegant. Fully marked including Minerva head and maker’s stamp. Five have retailer’s stamp for Boin-Taburet, a Paris firm associated with adapting and reproducing historic French wares. ...
German Cold War-era parcel gilt sterling silver globe. In c-scroll frame mounted to cast dolphin support in turn mounted to round foot. The world as it used to be with Us and Them (The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics) as well as a selection of secondary players. South America is made up of Brazil and Argentina and the Middle East of Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Anybody missing? Sure, but a great icebreaker nonetheless for office peace talks, and source of reflections on the transience of power. L...
Edwardian Classical sterling silver urn. Made by Tiffany & Co. in New York. Curved and tapering bowl with leaf flange on domed foot; leaf-capped, wrapped, and mounted high-looping side handles. Chased leafing-scroll border with pendant flowers. Mouth rim wavy with applied leaves. Foot rim has applied swags and leaves. Gilded inside and out. Turn-of-the-century sumptuousness. Fully marked including maker’s stamp, pattern no. 14368B and director’s letter C (1902-7) and volume (7 1/2 pts). Very...