Collectibles and Curiosities

Sotheby's Catalog, An Important Russian Imperial Jewel. Geneva 17 November 2005. 1st Ed hardcover. "An impressive and highly important diamond ornament from the collection of the Russian Imperial Family, Russia, second half of the 18th century. This diamond necklace with bowknot clasp is not only a remarkable jewel in itself, but its Russian royal provenance puts it in a class of its own. It evokes the blinding splendour of Catherine II, Empress of Russia: the magnificence of her court, her parks, her palaces, her art collections, and monuments. The most striking and colourful figure on the stage of European political life, for thirty four years she ruled a mighty empire which stretched from Siberia to Poland and left it stronger, larger and richer than when she came to the throne in 1762. After her death in 1796, her friend the Prince de Ligne, who had named her Catherine the Great, declared that this title- which has never been lost- resumed all her genius, courage, sense of justice, and force of character. Using her court as a stage, she played the part of an autocratic but enlightened ruler to perfection, imposing in her public appearances, kind and charming in private. The French ambassador, the Comte de Ségur who noticed how “her majestic head and brow, proud look and dignified deportment made her seem taller than she was”, was also impressed by her feminine grace “ her aquiline nose, well shaped mouth, Saxe blue eyes beneath dark lashes, gentle glance and seductive smile”. In spite of her success, she once confided to the Prince de Ligne that she could have served Russia better if she had been born a man. Ever the courtier, he assured her that being a woman was a positive advantage. “Believe me, you are so much more impressive in your beautiful embroidered orange red velvet dolman or tunic than a man decked out in boots and shoulder sash can ever be. In addition the five huge diamonds blazing out from your hair are far more effective than a man’s hat which is either ridiculously small or ridiculously big”. He was right. Her diamond jewellery proclaimed her power and her rank as Empress and appealed to the Russian taste for sumptuous goods. It impressed the Rev. William Coxe, visiting St. Petersburg in 1778: “the glory and the splendor of the clothing of the court and abundance of precious stones leave the opulence of other European courts far behind” and his opinion was shared by the acute Madame de Stael...

A wood carved holy water font. Attributed to an Italian or german wood carver. Made probably in the 1970s - 1980s. Found at an estate sale in Nuremberg, Germany. A nice addition to y...

A natural striped Chambered Nautilus Half Shell displayed in a Black Wooden Tabernacle Nautilus Pompulus Philippines; harvested in the 20th century The wood tabernacle, late 20th ce...

An early 21st century novelty "Premier Rule" measuring ruler with all the British Prime Ministers listed from Sir Robert Walpole 1721 up until Tony Blair 1997. It is made of solid silver, featuring centimeter and inch measuring markers. Presented in a beautiful original box. Hallmarked English Silver (925 standard), London, year 2003 (d), Maker Richard O.A. Jarvis (Richard Jarvis...

All Hail the King of Fantasy Art. Frank Frazetta finally gets the big beautiful book he deserves. Frank Frazetta has reigned as the undisputed lord of...

Vintage 1980s Local Motion surfboard. Features neon airbrushed tribal artwork design with glass-on on thruster (tri-fin) setup. A great example ...

Ballerina Fashion’s Modern Muse By: Patricia Mears, Laura Jacobs, Jane Pritchard, Rosemary Harden, and Joel Lobenthal Ballerina: Fashion’s Modern Muse is a revelatory, irresistible ...

'An excellent, encouraging introduction to French home cooking by an author who combines the best culinary qualities of Gallic versions of Irma Rombauer and Fannie Farmer, with just ...

Vintage portable Gucci backgammon case/game. Tan leather trim with Burl wood on front and back of case and Burl wood game board/playing surface. 15 gr...

In the year 1997, a Barbie doll emerged from the depths of Hollywood's golden era to immortalize one of the most iconic moments in film history. She is none other than Barbie as Marilyn Monroe, a dazzling tribute to the legendary actress and her unforgettable role in "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes." This Barbie, a prized gem from the Hollywood Legends Collection by Mattel, is a breathtaking embodiment of Marilyn's timeless glamour. Adorned in the famous pink dress that Marilyn Monroe wore in the film, this Barbie exudes the allure and magnetism of a Hollywood icon. The dress, tailored to perfection, hugs her figure in all the right places, capturing the essence of Marilyn's seductive elegance. The intricate jewelry from the movie has been meticulously inserted into the Barbie, adding an extra layer of authenticity to this collector's masterpiece. But it is not just the dress and jewelry that make this Barbie extraordinary. What sets her apart is that she has remained intact, her box never opened since the day she was created. It has been a silent witness to the passage of time, a tribute to Marilyn Monroe's enduring legacy and her indelible mark on film history. The box set itself is very elegant, a window into the glamorous and intriguing world that Marilyn inhabited. It is adorned with images and drawings that pay homage to the unforgettable moments Marilyn brought to the silver screen. Opening this box would be like unveiling a piece of film history, releasing the magic of Marilyn Monroe into the world once again. Included in this collector's package is a doll stand...

Mamma Milano Lessons from the Motherland By: J.J. Martin Embrace female empowerment with J.J. Martin, founder of world–renowned Milanese lifestyle brand La DoubleJ...

Hubert de Givenchy established the House of Givenchy in 1952 in Paris. The young designer quickly gained attention for his elegant and sophisticated designs, characterized by a blend...

First edition of Mira Nakashima’s tribute to her father, George, whose standing as one of America’s foremost designer/craftsmen is reflected in his blue-chip status in the vintage de...

The Complete Illustrated Encyclopedia of American Motorcycles by Tod Rafferty. This lavishly illustrated history winds its way through the 20th century by exploring such popular Amer...

Winterthur by Jay E. Cantor, Signed and Inscribed by the Author. Published by Harry N. Abrams, New York, NY, 1986. 2nd Ed hardcover with dust jacket. Traces the history of the Delawa...

Die Fouquet, 1860-1960: Schmuck-Kunstler in Paris by Sigrid Barten. (The Fouquet 1860-1960: jewelry artists in Paris." Published by Benteli, 1984. 1st Ed hardcover with dust jacket. ...

This bracelet is part of the space silver series by Bjorn Weckstrom for Lapponia. This design was called the "Man from Mercury". This Scandinavian modern cuff bracelet is marked 925 ...

Wine Lover's Devotional: 365 Days of Knowledge, Advice, and Lore for the Ardent Aficionado by and Signed by Jonathon Alsop. Published by Quarry Books, 2010. 1st Ed hardcover. For tru...

Vintage Porsche Carrera pedal car by Giordani Bologna Italy. A white vintage Porsche toy pedal car circa 1970 - 1980. This old pedal car type Porsche 911 ...

EMILIO. PUCCI Fashion Story by Armando Chitolina Edition and Vanessa Friedman Tashen 2010. "Limited Edition of 10,000 Copies. Each unique copy is bound with one of a selection of lim...

Published by Schiffer Publishing, Ltd., 1st edition, 1990. Hardback with English text. Profusely illustrated with over a thousand fountain pens with full or nearly full-sized colour...

Vintage Octaine Fitness Lateral Elliptical LX8000. Setting a new standard for innovation, Octane’s award-winning Lateral X keeps getting better. Now with a streamlined design, contemporary colors and a quieter stride adjustment motor, this cross trainer offers adjustable movement that transitions from a vertical, stepping motion to a lateral motion for greater challenge and results. Studies show that Lateral X users burn up to 27% more calories and use up to 30% more of the inner and outer thighs when going from the lowest to greatest lateral width setting. Complementing workouts is a choice of a smart or standard console, or a personal viewing screen, which include options such as an Internet browser, streaming videos, mobile device charging, TV, movies and more. Firmware updates and asset management enhance the performance of the LateralX, and the smart console also adds interactive video coaching for CROSS Circuit, along with Workout Booster videos. 10″ glass capacitive touch screen Workout Boosters and CROSS Circuit video coaching Simultaneously displays essential workout data Wi-Fi enabled Web browsing, video streaming Web applications USB port (charging capabilities) 15 workout programs and 30 resistance levels Wireless heart rate compatibility – ANT+ and Polar Digital contact heart rate sensors 3 speed console fan Add on options: Personal viewing screen and wireless 900Mhz Max user weight: 400 lbs. Dimensions W x L (foot print): 42"" x 63"" Machine Weight: 388 lbs. (176 kgs.) Lateral Motion Reinventing cross training, the innovative Lateral X utilizes varying planes of motion, including a stepping movement and adjustable, side-to-side motion, for functional exercise that builds stamina, muscular endurance and core stability. Research shows a 27% increase in caloric expenditure going from lateral width 1 to lateral width 10, and a 30% increase in outer and inner thigh work over traditional ellipticals. The variety within the movements keeps exercisers motivated and enjoying workouts!* *Study conducted by Minnesota State University Mankato going from lateral width 1 to lateral width 10. Stepping Motion For additional variety, the stepping motion can be used to alternate with lateral movements, for recovery or to incorporate beneficial cross training and target different muscle groups. Exercisers are free to customize their motion at any time throughout workouts. Upper-Body Ergonomics The upper body gets totally involved using the patented, breakthrough Multi-Grip and Converging Path handlebars, which fits exercisers comfortably. It’s easy to target different arm, chest and back muscles by changing the hand position on the Multi-Grip handlebars, which include fingertip controls for stride width and resistance. And the Converging Path handlebars follow the natural path of the arms when walking, running or moving side to side. Space-Efficient Design Designed with a compact footprint and self-powered operation, the Lateral X fits anywhere in a fitness facility, which makes it easy to floor several units to meet demand and accommodate many exercisers. It’s simple to get on and off the machine safely with its low step-up height and rear access. Workout Boosters Adding interval training to Lateral X routines is as easy as pushing a button to take on Octane’s trademark Workout Boosters, like X-Mode, QuadPower and Thigh Toner, which deliver greater challenges using quick bursts of cross training movements that target the entire body. Personal Entertainment The Lateral X boasts supreme entertainment with a choice of a smart or standard console, which add various options, including an Internet browser, ANT+ compatibility and mobile device charging. Both also can be equipped with a personal viewing screen (PVS) or 9000Mhz wireless receiver for premium customization. The PVS adds a multitude of TV and movie selections with integrated keypad controls, and the receiver is compatible with Cardio Theater, Broadcast Vision, MYE Entertainment and more. Smart console technology Fuel exercisers with the best entertainment experience by upgrading to the smart console that equips users to multitask. Users benefit from a great workout while staying up-to-date on all the latest information on the Internet. With the smart consoles, individuals can browse the web, quickly access applications, stream video and take advantage of video coaching for select programs. Solo Routine Octane’s trademark CROSS Circuit that combines cardio intervals with strength training now comes alive with videos that show proper execution of hundreds of strength training exercises. Plus, users can easily add effective interval training to workouts with any Workout Booster, which now are illustrated via video demos that keep exercisers engaged and using correct form. Asset management Provided by Eco Fit Networks, Octane’s asset management measures and shares valuable data from cardiovascular equipment that club owners can analyze to ensure proper equipment placement, equal usage, timely preventive maintenance and minimal downtime with service needs. Entertainment Today’s exercisers want to stay entertained and motivated throughout workouts, which can boost adherence and results. The smart console fully equips them to select from several popular options, including Internet surfing, web video streaming and web applications. With these interactive choices, boredom is banished and exercisers can extend workouts. Faster Results CROSS Circuit helps you get fitter faster by combining cardio intervals on the elliptical with strength-training exercises on the floor next to the machine. Individuals use the PowerBlock adjustable dumbbells stored conveniently at the back of the elliptical for virtually unlimited exercise variety. With cardio and strength in a rigorous interval routine, exercisers can burn calories, build muscle and boost metabolism. Time efficient and motivational, this powerful program can be performed by individual exercisers, in personal training one-on-one sessions and in small group training. CROSS Circuit Pro The hottest trend in health clubs...

Provence: The Beautiful Cookbook: Authentic Recipes from the Regions of Provence Hardcover – September 24, 1993. by Richard Olney (Author), Michael Freeman (Author), Peter Johnson (P...

1980s Original gorgeous playing cards box by Piero Fornasetti in walnut wood . It's in excellent condition and includes two packs of Dal Negro cards. The box is signed on the botto...

Sotheby's, English Furniture, Ceramics and Decorations: Including Property from the Collections of the Dowager Duchess of Bedford and Mrs. Douglas Auchincloss Oct. 20 & 21, 2003. No....

A first-ever children's visual reference book on age — and a unique celebration of the diversity of humankind around the globe For young children, the concept of age is abstract whe...

A cutting-edge illustrated survey of 75 contemporary tattoo artists from around the world who are pushing the boundaries of their art form With nearly 700 images, Tattoo You: A New Generation of Artists showcases 75 rising stars who are redefining the industry. The first book of its kind, Tattoo You features artists curated by a global panel of experts, including some of tattooing’s most important names, such as Grace Neutral, Claudia De Sabe, Matt McCormick...

A celebration of Australian cuisine like never before — 350 recipes showcasing the rich diversity of its landscapes and its people. Australia is a true melting pot of cultures and t...

The 1920s and 1930s saw the birth of modernism in the United States, a new aesthetic, based on the principles of the Bauhaus in Germany: its merging of architecture with fine and app...

Chagall; (Twentieth-century masters) Hardcover – January 1, 1971 by Marc Bucci, Mario; Chagall (Author). Text: English, Italian (translation). 94 pages, Hardcover. First published Ja...

Annie Leibovitz, our most celebrated living photographer, explains how her pictures are made Leibovitz addresses young photographers and readers interested in what photographers do...

This is a doll which we use for Hinamatsuri day. This person is one of Goninbayashi. This person has a Drum. This doll was made with plastic, cotton, silk. This doll was made around ...

This is a doll which we use for Hinamatsuri day. This person is one of Sannin Kanjo. This person has Nagae no choshi. This doll was made with plastic, cotton, silk and metal. This do...

The Jay Hoffman Collection of United States Stamps: Sale 956, Thursday & Friday, May 8-9, 2008, by Robert A. Siegel Auction Galleries, Inc. One of the most important collections to c...

Selected as one of Oprah’s Favorite Things 2023. This keepsake children’s book celebrates friendship in a new and accessible way: through art. Featuring a bright stylish cover and ...

An evocative and personal chef monograph – and an ode to wood-fired cooking – from Japan's exciting emerging chef Monk is the story of Yoshihiro Imai's 14-seat, seasonally inspired ...

How to Detect Damaged, Altered and Repaired Stamps by Paul W. Schmid. Published by Palm Press Huntington, NY, 1979. Avoid costly mistakes. Paul Schmid explains how to detect alterati...

The Complete British Motorcycle The Classics From 1907 To The Present by J Carroll.Hardcover with dust jacket. Profusely illustrated throughout.British motorcycles attract a fanatica...

Introduction to United States Revenue Stamps by Richard Friedberg and Classic U.S. Imperforate Stamps by Jon Rose. Published by Linn's Stamp News, 1994/1990. 1st Ed softcover.s Reven...

A brand-new monograph celebrating one of the most sought-after design studios working today nendo's extensive, idiosyncratic body of work flows seamlessly across disciplines, and is...

GIOBAGNARA Renowned for its elegant creations that convey luxury without ostentation, GIOBAGNARA adheres to the highest standards of craftsmanship. By pursuing a philosophy that inco...

A clever, quirky picture-book biography of one of the most important figures of modern and contemporary art Louise Bourgeois was a world-famous artist who told stories of her life t...

Signed by the photographer, numbered 320 in an edition of 500. Published by the photographer in 2002. 25 postcards in total, photographic postcards loose as issued in the original...

Wooden handmade backgammon game dressed in fine and soft genuine leather with brass dice in palladium plating. Available in different colors. Pleas...

Two Private Presses The Four Wind Press and the Stone House Press on Long Island by Joan Digby, Limited 1st Ed 1/200. Published by The Four Winds Press, New York, 1988. The story of ...

Fine Furniture: A Timeline in Woods by Mallett & Son Antiques. Mallett & Sons Antiques, 2007. 1st Ed softcover. 144 pp. Illustrated with furniture, mirrors, and accessories all photo...

Fundamentals of Philately by L.N. Williams. Published by American Philatelic Society, 1990. 1st Ed hardcover. The book includes 2 chapters on general collecting and the remaining 13 ...

GIOBAGNARA Renowned for its elegant creations that convey luxury without ostentation, GIOBAGNARA adheres to the highest standards of craftsmanship. By pursuing a philosophy that inco...

Introducing the epitome of regal elegance and opulence, behold the majestic royal carriage. This exquisite masterpiece of craftsmanship and design stands as a symbol of prestige and ...

Inside Milan By: Nicolo Castellini Baldissera Photography by Guido Taroni A revealing glimpse into the home of Milan’s foremost creative residents Inside Milan ventures behind close...

Published by MoMA, 1st edition, New York, 2002. Hardback with English text. Nearly 300 coloured and black and white colour plates. From the austere photo-based figurative realism o...

A sumptuous survey of over 300 women painters and their work spanning almost five centuries Great Women Painters is a groundbreaking book that reveals a richer and more varied telling of the story of painting. Featuring more than 300 artists from around the world, it includes both well-known women painters from history and today's most exciting rising stars. Covering nearly 500 years of skill and innovation, this survey continues Phaidon's celebrated The Art Book series and reveals and champions a more diverse history of art, showcasing recently discovered and newly appreciated work and artists throughout its more than 300 pages and images. Artists featured include: Hilma af Klint, Eileen Agar, Sofonisba Anguissola...

A beyond-cool look at the world of high-end audio design for passionate collectors, obsessive audiophiles, and design fans At a time when sales of vinyl records have hit a 25-year hi...

Contemporary Pin/Pendant. 14K Gold & Antique Mother-of-Pearl, Chinese Gambling Chip Pin, and Combination Enhancer. Hand-carved tiger-eye face, h...

A very beautiful hard-cover Cartier High Jewelry coffee table book by Hans Nadelhoffer, 1984. Book showcases royal and high jewelry, timepieces, a...

Le Corbusier Der Modulor book. Le Corbusier published Le Modulor in 1948, followed by Modulor 2 in 1955. These works were first published in English as The ...

David Gill Designing Art By: David Gill Introduction by Meredith Etherington-Smith David Gill reveals the famed gallerist’s opinions of and influence on the world of art and design; he presents the works of artists, sculptors, and designers he has discovered and nurtured, among them Donald Judd, Mattia Bonetti, Zaha Hadid, Grayson Perry, Barnaby Barford...

A statuesque vintage industrial floor lamp. The stainless steel and brass searchlight has been paired with a timber and bronze tripod to create a bes...