Solomon Treasure

An extremely fine Russian Empire Ormolu Mounted Mahogany center table, circa 1820-1830. Very finely mounted with crisp ormolu throughout, with bronze female figures, foliate scrolling, lions head...

State of Qatar and Grant Macdonald, A Rare Silver Humidor Box in original fitted box depicting the map and flags of The State of Qatar and the Royal seal of the State. Silverware is a traditional gift in many cultures and Qatar is known for its appreciation of luxury and quality hence the collaboration with Grant Macdonald which has been commissioned to create a silver humidor for a member of the royal family of Qatar. Grant Macdonald is a British silversmith company that has been in business for over 50 years. They are known for their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail in creating luxury silverware and bespoke commissions. Qatar, on the other hand, is a small country located in the Middle East that has been growing rapidly over the past few decades, becoming a hub for business and luxury. Grant Macdonald and Qatar may seem like two unrelated topics, but the two have actually been connected in recent years through commissions and collaborations. Qatar is a country that values luxury and quality, making it a prime market for Grant Macdonald’s exquisite silverware. In fact, the company has worked on several high-profile commissions for clients in Qatar, including a silver replica of the famous Doha Pearl Monument. The Doha Pearl Monument is an iconic landmark in Qatar, representing the country’s history and culture. It is a symbol of Qatar’s pearl diving...

An exceptional and rare Islamic Alhambra bronze and enameled glass six-light mosque chandelier, circa 1870. This one of a kind, exceptionally elegant, jewel-quality chandelier, is one of the most beautiful chandeliers we have seen in this style. The ormolu is phenomenal, the enameled glass balls on the chain are beautiful, and of course the ruby red glass plates...

Rare English silver-gilt book-form chess and backgammon game board, circa 1976. This exceptional and rare solid silver chess board converts into a backgammon board and can also be placed in a bookshelf to add more opulence. (3 in 1). This was most definitely a private commissioned piece by the House of Garrard...

A monumental Royal Vienna Iridescent porcelain portrait vase and cover, Wagner, circa 1880. This Royal Vienna Urn features an exceptional iridescent ...

A rare Indian Islamic carved calligraphic marble tile, circa 1860 Hand carved with a cusped cartouche containing lines of dense thuluth calligraphy. Sitti...

Important ormolu and silvered bronze figural wine cooler, possibly Russian, 1860 Gilt and silvered bronze wine cooler. Modeled with two Russian polar bears at the handles and with a young gunmen holding a rifle seated with a sea otter...

A rare French enameled Mamluk Revival (Islamic) glass mosque lamp / lantern by Philippe-Joseph Brocard, late 19th century. Measures: 14" high x 11" wide Signed Brocard Paris. ...

A Rare and Exquisite French Ormolu Bronze and Porcelain Clock, attributed to Jean Francois Deniere, circa 1810. This large and elaborate clock is made of the finest quality ormolu and porcelain during the period. Of rectangular form, with porcelain and bronze columns painted with flowers and griffins, this clock would make a statement in any room. To a clock collector, this clock is a true masterpiece! Similar clocks like this, by Deniere, are in prestigious museums and collections worldwide, including the Frick Collection and the Royal Collection Trust. 21.5" high x 12" wide x 6" deep **For a similar clock see Christies New York, 21 November 2008, Lot # 139, sold for $50,000. Very good condition with no damages. All original parts. Clock is not running. More photos available upon request. Jean-François Deninger, called Denière, was one of the most illustrious bronziers of the first half of the 19th century. Appointed Envoy in Constantinople around 1796, the bronzier Denière entered into partnership with François Mathelin in 1797. They founded a prosperous operation and their atelier had over 200 workers during the Empire period - a number that subsequently doubled during the reign of Louis-Philippe. Fournisseur to the duchesse de Berry and Louis-Philippe, Denière also worked for the duke of Hamilton, Ferdinand VII of Spain, William II of Hesse, William II of Holland, Tsar Alexander II of Russia, and other heads of state. In 1817-1818 Denière furnished some of the bronze work for the redecoration of the White House in Washington. He furthermore produced the mounts for the cradle of the duc de Bordeaux in 1820 and the bronzes for Charles X's coronation coach...

An extremely rare, museum quality pair of Ferdinand Barbedienne ormolu and champlevé enamel vases, circa 1870, certainly designed by Louis Constant Sevin...

An exceptional French bronze ormolu mounted turquoise jeweled Sèvres Porcelain clock set by Raingo Fres, Paris, circa 1880. Comprising of...

Mellerio Paris, a large silver, gold, lapis lazuli, coral, and hardstone picture photo frame with two falcons. France, circa 2000 The frame resting on a lapis lazuli base with squa...

A Monumental Louis XIV style French gilt-bronze mounted wood boulle marquetry casket box, circa 1895 Known in French as a carré de toilette, this casket has canted corners with lavi...

Ferdinand Barbedienne, A French Ormolu and Champleve Enamel Jardiniere, C. 1870, The Design Attributed to Louis Constant Sevin. An exceptional qualit...

Al Thani collection, a Mughal Indian square white jade inkwell cover, circa 1800 Purchased from the Al Thani collection, Christies New York, Sal...

A Monumental French Silvered and Gilt-Bronze and Glass Centerpiece of "Poseidon", Paris, circa 1895. A very good quality centerpiece depicting "Poseidon and his seahorses", of mon...

A Louis Majorelle and Daum Nancy Gilt Bronze and Pink Glass Table Lamp, Circa 1900 Introducing an exquisite piece of Art Nouveau mastery – the Louis Majorelle and Daum Nancy Gilt Br...

An Exquisite Pair Of Japanese Cloisonné Enamel Vases with Chrysanthemum Blossoms, Attributed to Hayashi, Meiji Period. Experience the exquisite craftsmanship of the Meiji period wit...

An Important Italian Kingwood and Patinated Bronze Figural Console Table. Indulge in the pinnacle of Italian craftsmanship with this extraordinary Italian Kingwood, Marble, and Patinated-Bronze Figural Console Table—an exquisite masterpiece resonating with the opulence of the late 19th century. The serpentine Breccia di Sciro marble top, cradled within an intricate ormolu and kingwood frame, serves as the crowning glory, setting the stage for an extraordinary display of artistry. The base, a testament to the visionary Ludovico Pogliaghi of Milan, elevates this console table to the realm of sculptural poetry. Departing from convention, a young triton assumes a dynamic pose, ready to gracefully spring forward, replacing the traditional supporting figures found in 17th-century Venetian serving tables. This reinterpretation not only defies expectations but introduces a kinetic elegance, with the triton standing proudly on a scrolling foliate base that seamlessly transitions into a shaped foot supported by dignified bun feet. This console table is a harmonious blend of historical homage and contemporary sophistication. In its design, one can discern echoes of Pogliaghi's prior work, such as a comparable table sold Christies London, 19 March 2009, lot 83 (GBP 205,250) featuring a kneeling river God supporting a silver tray—an exquisite piece of Milanese heritage. Beyond its aesthetic allure, this table encapsulates the essence of grandeur that once graced the noble households of Milan. 31" high x 47" wide x 25" in. deep Provenance: Private American Collection Solomon Treasure...

Elevate your space to unparalleled heights of sophistication with this Large and Exceptional Pair of French Rock Crystal, Glass, and Wrought Iron Five-Light Chandeliers. Meticulously...

An Important and Monumental Pair Of French Baccarat Opaline Opaque Glass Bronze Mounted Vases and Covers. In the annals of artistry, certain creations stand as epitomes of beauty, t...

A Timeless Masterpiece: The Exquisite Bureau Plat of The Duke and Duchess of Windsor In the world of fine art and antiques, certain pieces transcend time, becoming symbols of opul...

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...

Illuminating Heritage: An Important "Exhibition" Pair of Ferdinand Barbedienne and Louis Constant Sevin Champleve Enamel and Ormolu Eight-Light Candelabra / Lamps In the realm of de...

Elegance in Stone and Gilt: A Large Pair of French Ormolu-Mounted Egyptian Porphyry Vases, The gilt mounts 19th Century, the Porphyry, circa 1700's. Embark on a journey through time with this exceptional pair of Large French Ormolu-Mounted Egyptian Porphyry Vases – a harmonious union of history and artistry. The gilt mounts, crafted in the 19th century, pay homage to the opulence of the era while cradling the true treasures within – the Egyptian porphyry vases dating back to the 1700s. The porphyry, sourced from the enigmatic lands of Egypt, lends an air of ancient mystique to these majestic vases. Its rich, royal purple tones and intricate natural patterns echo the grandeur of ancient civilizations, infusing each piece with a palpable sense of history. The ormolu mounts, delicately worked and emblematic of 19th-century French craftsmanship, serve as a bridge between antiquity and the refined tastes of the Belle Époque. As you gaze upon these vases, you are invited to appreciate the confluence of two distinct epochs – the timeless allure of Egyptian antiquity...

Gianmaria Buccellati, a rare and exceptional Italian silver bobcat, circa 1990s. Made in Milan, Italy. Retail price was $72,000 USD + Tax. Very fine quality and workmanship...

Introducing an extraordinary and exceptionally rare pair of Chinese Cinnabar Carved Lacquer Vases from the Qianlong period. These monumental vases stand as magnificent examples of Ch...

A Rare Pair of Ormolu-Mounted Bloodstone Two-Light Candlesticks, Resting on Jasper Bases, Circa 1790 Transport yourself to the pinnacle of historical elegance with this extraordinar...

The Magnificent Baccarat Elephant Cave A Liquor: A Majestic Exploration of a Timeless Masterpiece from the Exposition Universelle of 1878. The Bacca...

Presenting an extraordinary Large and Exceptional Japanese Meiji Period Tokyo School Bronze Sculpture depicting a delightful ensemble of six energe...

Introducing a truly magnificent Palace-Sized Japanese Cloisonné Enamel Vase adorned with exquisite irises and graceful sparrows. This extraordinary vase showcases the epitome of Japa...

Introducing a magnificent Large Meiji Period Japanese Cloisonné Enamel Vase adorned with enchanting iris blossoms. This extraordinary vase encapsulates the essence of Japanese artist...

A Majestic and Large Japanese Meiji Cloisonné Enamel Covered Jar with Dragons, Mythological Creatures, and Theater Characters. Presentin...

Presenting a truly captivating and highly collectible pair of Meiji Period Japanese Cloisonné Enamel Pink-Ground Vases, attributed to the renowned artist Hayashi Kodenji. These excep...

Presenting a truly remarkable piece, this large exquisite quality cobalt ground Meiji Period Japanese cloisonne Enamel Bud Vase. This magnificent artwork embodies the timeless beauty...

A Large French Baccarat Opaline Glass Hand-Painted "Bacchanale" Vase, by Roussel, circa 1885. Presenting an exquisite and highly coveted piece of artistry, behold the large French O...

Mathurin Moreau (French, 1822-1912) A Monumental French Bronze and Crystal Figural Centerpiece Introducing an extraordinary and monumental Fre...

A Rare 18th Century Middle Eastern Silk and Silver Thread Green Velvet Tapestry. Presenting a rare and exceptional find, this 18th-century Middle Eastern silk and silver thread gree...

A large pair of Meiji Period Japanese cloisonne enamel vases attributed to Goto Seizaburo, 19th century. These vases were made during the Meiji period (1868-1912) in Japan and are characterized by their blue enamel background with intricate designs of flowers, birds (including pigeons), butterflies and landscapes. The use of blue enamel as a background creates a striking contrast with the colorful designs, making these vases particularly visually appealing which are appreciated for their beauty, craftsmanship, and cultural significance. Goto Seizaburo (1852-1914) was a renowned Japanese cloisonne enamel artist...

A large pair of Meiji Period Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Double Dragon Vases, 19th century. Japanese cloisonne enamel dragon vases are highly ...

A large pair of Japanese Cloisonne Enamel vases attributed to Honda Yasaburo, 19th century. Finley decorated with the rich enamel colors of orange and green, these vases are desig...

A monumental Chinese famille rose porcelain "Peacock" palace vase, Republic period. Magnificent quality and palace sized Chinese hu-form vase with side h...

A Rare and Monumental Italian Carved Carrara Marble Model of a Cathedral, Rome, 19th century, circa 1840. Possibly a representation of Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence Italy. The Italian Renaissance is renowned for its magnificent works of art and architecture, which are admired to this day for their grandeur and intricate details. Among the most impressive examples of this era are the rare and monumental carved Carrara marble models of cathedrals...

A monumental pair of ruby red gilt Bohemian "Alhambra" cut glass vases on stands, circa 1910. Of Alhambra form, in the Moorish / Islamic tast...

An exceptional Chinese carved coral figural group or statue of a boat with eight immortals. The boat in a form of a carved dragon wi...

Cristalleries De Baccarat, A Large French Cut-Crystal Twenty-Four Light Tsarine Torcheres, Standing Floor Chandelier. "A Magnificent Chandelier" Each central stem issuing twenty-four out-scrolled candle branches suspending prisms and bell-flowers, on four splayed supports, in the Indian Maharaja style, stamped BACCARAT throughout. 86" high x 33" wide Wired for electricity. In overall excellent condition. The torchère is fully complete and there are no damages associated.Ready to place. Comparative Literature: Lerch, Moscou, Splendeurs des Romanov, Exhibition catalogue, 11 July – 13 September 2009, Monaco, pp. 214-217. M. Lerch, Baccarat: la légende du cristal, Exhibition catalogue, 15 October 2014 – 4 January 2015, Paris, pp.68-69. D. Sautot, The Story of Baccarat, Paris, 1993. Cristalleries de Baccarat: The origins of the manufacture, also known as the Compagnie des Cristalleries de Baccarat, can be traced to 1764. On this year, King Louis XV accorded to the Bishop of Metz permission to establish a glass factory on his land, in the small village of Baccarat in Lorraine, in order to compete with the celebrated Bohemian production. Lorraine is traditionally a glass-making region, due to the abundance of silica in the soil and due to its large forests, which supplied the wood to fuel the ovens. Francois-Eugène de Fontenay, who joined the company in 1841, discovered that the addition of nickel oxide in the manufacturing process resulted in a perfectly clear product, 'crystal glass', that was free of discoloration and that imitated precious rock crystal. For this discovery, the Baccarat company was awarded a gold medal at the French Expositions des Produits de l'Industrie in 1844. Continually experimenting with their manufacturing process, the quality of Baccarat's 'crystal glass' improved, reaching the highest level by the end of the century. The Baccarat manufacture rapidly became a leading producer with highly skilled maître-verriers. In 1823, Baccarat participated for the first time at the National Exhibition. Louis XVIII was seduced by the quality of the pieces presented, which received the praise of the jury and the first gold medal. As a result of their success and innovations, the manufacture gradually consolidated its reputation, which allowed it to dominate the French market. The Russian fascination for Baccarat: In 1867, Tsar Alexander II visited the Exposition Universelle in Paris and fell in awe in the sight of Baccarat’s stand...

Emanuel Oberhauser (Austrian, 1854-1919) an exceptional quality full length oil on canvas painting of a Young Orientalist Queen or Odalisque, 19th c...

A Large Pair of Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Lanterns Attributed to Kaji Tsunekichi, Edo Period, 19th century Japanese cloisonne lanterns were made during the Meiji period, from the late 19th to early 20th century, and were often used as decorative lighting fixtures in temples and shrines. Kaji Tsunekichi (1866-1916) was a Japanese cloisonné artist who was active in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was born in Tokyo and learned the art of cloisonné from his father, Kaji Sataro, who was also a cloisonné artist. He was renowned for his mastery of the shippo-yaki technique, which involves creating intricate designs with thin wires on a metal base before filling in the spaces with enamel. Tsunekichi was known for his exceptional technical skills and his ability to create intricate designs with vibrant colors. His works often featured nature motifs, such as flowers, birds, and fish, which were rendered in a highly detailed and naturalistic style. He also experimented with new techniques, such as plique-à-jour, a type of cloisonné that creates a stained-glass effect. Tsunekichi's works were highly prized during his lifetime and continue to be sought after by collectors today. He won numerous awards for his cloisonné creations, including a Gold Medal at the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris. His works are characterized by their fine wirework, precise enamel application, and attention to detail. Some of Tsunekichi's most famous works include a pair of large cloisonné vases...

A Monumental Meiji Period Japanese Cloisonne Enamel Jardiniere. This monumental Meiji Period Japanese cloisonne enamel jardiniere is...

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...

Alexandre Chevrie, a museum quality French ormolu mounted mahogany Royal Executive "Empire" Desk, circa 1875. Double sided desk with six solid bronze lions paw feet, framed ormolu lions on both sized, jewel quality ormolu medusa heads concealing the drawer locks, and exquisite ormolu frieze designs throughout. With original red leather top. Truly the best quality desk with the most sophisticated design for this Napoleon III period. There was a similar bedroom set in this style that was made for King...

A rare palace size Chinese carved cinnabar lacquer figural box and cover, Qing Dynasty This palace size box and cover is a rare and exquisite piece of a...

A Rare and Important Renaissance "Judaica" Carved Oak Wood Cabinet, circa 1680 We are pleased to present a rare and important Renaissance Judaica c...

Rare and important Italian white marble bust sculpture of Jesus Christ, C. 1850. A truly exceptionally carved marble relief of Holy Jesus Christ. ...

Ferdinand Barbedienne, An Exquisite Suite of Three French Ormolu and Champleve Enamel Jardinieres / Garniture C. 1870, The Design Attributed to Louis Constant Sevin. Comprising of t...

An Exquisite and Large Indian 22K Gold, Enamel, and Diamond Snuff Box, Jaipur A very fine quality 22k gold box set with 40 diamonds, painted with the fi...

An exceptional and monumental white marble figural sculpture clock, "A Nubian Slaying The Lion" by Jean-Joseph Jacquet (Belgian, 1822–1898), c...

An Exquisite and Rare French Louis XVI Style Ormolu-Mounted Bloodstone Inkwell, circa 1875. A truly exceptional and jewel like quality inkwell encrier, made with the finest ormolu, mounted on bloodstone. A true collectors and one of a kind piece. Revival of the ancient régime in the late 19th century was paramount to the French furniture and bronze casting firms of the Belle Epoque. Imitation in the highest regard and replication of those tastes and styles was prevalent throughout the Paris Faubourg, where the most talented bronziers and ébénistes established their workshops. The present inkwell encrier recalls the late 18th century's obsession with hardstones - a taste expounded above all by the duc d'Aumont and, subsequently Marie-Antoinette. Such hardstone-mounted pieces, reminiscent of Renaissance schatzkammer objects, enjoyed a revived popularity at the end of the 18th century through the impetus of both the marchands-mercier and, more importantly, the hôtel des Menus-Plaisirs, where the duc d'Aumont himself established a workshop in 1770 specializing in the cutting and polishing of precious hardstones. This exceptional inkwell encrier, sumptuously-mounted with finely chased gilt-bronzes, incorporates a highly-prized material such as bloodstone. Sometimes called the Sunstone, the meaning of Bloodstone comes entangled in fascinating history. The Ancient Greeks held the Bloodstone as a gem with glorious powers. They referred to it as Heliotrope, which directly translates to Sunstone. It was believed to have heavenly healing powers gifted by the gods and most certainly when it came to healing all things related to the blood. Even as we move forward into the Middle Ages, the Bloodstone takes another mystical story under its wing. It was believed to be formed from Christ's blood. It was said that during the Crucifixion, a few red spots of his blood dripped...

Mellerio Paris, A French Gold, Diamonds, Silver-Gilt, Rock-Crystal, Jade, Mother-Of-Pearl and Smoky Quartz, Carved Horse Sculpture, Jeweled Mounted Object. An extremely rare and unique, one of a kind French gold, diamonds, Silver-gilt, rock-crystal, jade, obsidian, mother-of-pearl, and smoky quartz carved jeweled sculpture "CHEVAUX DE LEGENDE", "A Legendary Horse" by Mellerio, Paris, circa 1991. Sitting on black obsidian base, the solid rock-crystal slab is finely applied with a carved smoky -quartz and jade horse with a harness mounted in 18k gold, brilliant -cut diamonds, rubies, turquoise, and amethyst chains and pendants. The top columns adorned with 18k gold and brilliant cut diamond pendants, the bottom with gold and mother of pearl plaques. The obsidian base with a plaque engraved: CHEVAUX DE LEGENDE" / N° 05 / MELLERIO DITS MELLER / PARIS / 5003 D The piece is in excellent condition and comes with a custom made wood case made for transport. It's very elegant and has French hallmarks throughout. A truly magnificent piece. Measures 10.5" high x 8.5" wide x 4" deep Founded in France in 1613 by the descendants of Italian immigrants from the Vigezzo Valley in the north of Italy, Mellerio is one of the oldest jewellery houses in Europe. The family business soon attracted the attention of the Royal Court and Marie Antoinette herself reportedly purchased a precious bracelet featuring 7 cameos surrounded by rubies in 1780. Later on, in the 19th century, Mellerio became the official supplier of the French Royal family and the Court of Netherland. Mellerio creates many jewellery items, all set with rare gems such as peridots, amethysts, aquamarines, citrines and topaz, applying for a patent, the flexible stem, a very supple and light jewellery mechanism. Mellerio remains also well known for their spectacular series of Art Nouveau jewels, created at the beginning of the 20th century, as well as for the creation of trophies rewarding some of the greatest footfall and tennis players of history. In 1993, the jewellery house launched their first watch collection. Today, Mellerio has stores in Paris, Japan and Hong Kong. July 14, 1789: this date is known throughout the world as the beginning of the French Revolution. According to a ledger belonging to House of Mellerio, this was also the day that the jeweler sold a golden key to the Comte de Coutance for 10 livres. This ledger, as well as inventories dating as far back as 1768, are the jeweler’s oldest archives. These archives have continued to grow over the years, as the House, established on rue de la Paix in Paris, still lives on today, still in the hands of the same family from Craveggia, in the North of Italy. The tumultuous history of the Mellerio family in France probably goes as far back as the Italian wars of the Renaissance, but the first official document proving their commercial activity in Paris dates back to 1613. This document is the famous royal warrant awarded by Marie de Medici to a number of Italian families established along the rue des Lombards, including the Mellerios, allowing them to sell “small jewelery items”, therefore granting them a small exception to the traditional monopoly enjoyed by Parisian jewelers. At that time, powerful corporations regulated the operations and customs of Parisian business, but thanks to this exceptional warrant, the Mellerios managed to escape the confines of this framework. Today, this wax-sealed document is kept at the city hall of Craveggia. From 1613 to the Revolution, the Mellerios lived between France and Italy. The corporations tried many times to put an end to their trade privileges, but all in vain, as a dynasty of sovereigns renewed the warrant. Always marrying and often retiring in Craveggia, the Mellerios continued to maintain their jewelry business in Paris. At first, they did this without a shop. Wearing backpacks (wooden boxes divided into small compartments where jewels were kept), they would tour town fairs around Paris and royal castles. This is how Jean-Baptiste Mellerio (1765-1850) is said to have sold a bracelet set with rubies and Antique cameos to Marie-Antoinette, which still exists today. Many elements seem to prove the veracity of this anecdote. The queen was particularly fond of cameos, which cover the entire background of her famous jewelry cabinet, and ruby was her favorite stone after diamond. The famous bracelet, reacquired a few years ago by the House of Mellerio, is indeed an 18th century jewel, set with antique cameos representing the profiles of Roman emperors. Two branches of the family were operating in Paris during this time, under the reign of Louis XVI: that of Jean-François (1746-1828), the paternal ancestor of the current Mellerios, and that of Jean-Baptiste (1765-1850). The French Revolution forced them to return to Italy. However, both Jean-Baptiste and François Mellerio (1772-1843), who was the son of Jean-François, were eventually able to return to Paris after the founding of the Consulate. Jean-Baptiste opened a shop at the Iron Crown of rue Vivienne, and François opened his at the Palais des Tuileries, rue du Coq Saint-Honoré. His well-organized order books give an idea of his high-ranking clientele during the “Old Regime”, among which were the Comte and Comtesse Octave de Segur, the Marquise (later Duchess) de Tourzel, former governess of the royal children, and her daughter, the Comtesse de Bearn, the Craufurds -who organized the flight to Varennes, the Duc and Duchess de Gramont, the Comtesse de Boigne, and Madame de Souza, Talleyrand’s mistress. We also see the names of the imperial family: Empress Josephine, the Queen of Holland, Princess Elisa, Caroline and Pauline. At that time, the House of Mellerio specialized, among other things, in the trade of antique cameos, a newly fashionable genre of jewel that captured the imagination of all the princesses and noble women of the time. The years of the Restauration and July Monarchy were among the most glorious. The Bourbons were back on the throne, and the clientele of the House of Mellerio had regained its former wealth. Mellerio supplied Louis-Philippe, Duke of Orléans, as well as his mother, wife and sister, with sumptuous jewels, including a set of emeralds made piece by piece, while the Duke of Bourbon, last prince of the House of Condé, offered diamonds to his mistress, the scheming Baronne de Feucheres, and Monsieur de LaFayette also bought cameos for one of his granddaughters. For the first time, Mellerio ventured into the world of arts in 1815, when Carlotta Grisi, a famous dancer who created Giselle, as well as an actress named Rachel, bought jewels at the Mellerio store on rue de la Paix. 1848 marked a new turning point. France once again became a Republic. François Mellerio handed the company over to his son, Jean, and the latter decided to travel to Spain to build a new clientele. He later became one of the jewelers of the royal family, and met Eugénie de Montijo, who remained a faithful client when she became empress of the French people. The Imperial years were lavish. During the Second Empire, Paris was a pageant of crinoline dresses designed by Worth, while jewels by Mellerio, Worth’s neighbour on the rue de la Paix, adorned the noble women of the Tuileries court. The Empress bought pearls. Mathilde Bonaparte...

A Rare Louis XV Ormolu-Mounted Tulipwood and Chinese Lacquer cabinet, c. 1750 (Regence Period) A truly magnificent, monumental, and one of a kind cabinet, painted throughout with gi...