19th Century Chilean Huaso Stirrups

This rare and authentic pair of Chilean spurs is stunning to behold. Traditionally worn by huasos, or Chilean cowboys, these silvered steel spurs, or esp...

This incredible, one-of-a-kind watch display cabinet brings together the beauty of an antique with the functionality of modern technology. Crafted of mahogany, this 19th century jewelry display cabinet...

A masterpiece of both cabinetmaking and mechanical engineering, this one-of-a-kind expanding table was crafted by the renowned cabinetmaker Samuel Hawkins of London for the Great Exhibition of 1851. Diminutive in size, the fascinating table was designed as a model to demonstrate Hawkins’ innovative patent screw movement to visitors of the Exhibition – six million people in total over five months. It was exhibited again a century later at the Victoria & Albert Museum during the Festival of Britain, an event intended “to symbolise two main qualities of the national character: realism and strength on the one hand, and, on the other, independence and imagination” (Catalogue of the Exhibition, 1951, p.117). To this day, the miniature masterpiece demonstrates the quest of English furniture makers to combine technical innovation with superb craftsmanship. Displaying exceptional ingenuity, Hawkins’ wind-out screw mechanism allowed one to extend the table’s base to accommodate concentric leaves with the simple crank of a handle. It is based on the inventive expanding table originally designed by Robert Jupe in 1835, which used a swivel mechanism to separate sections of the tabletop and allow for segmented leaves to be inserted. Hawkins’ tabletop, on the other hand, extends outwards directly from the center in order to accommodate additional leaves around its diameter. This unique design allowed the mechanism to also smoothly operate on rectangular tables, which could be wound out from the middle to allow for more table space. Hawkins was not alone in his endeavor to combine the technical merits of engineering and mechanics with the most artful pursuit of cabinetmaking. The first half of the 19th century saw a prolific increase in the popularity of applying new ideas to traditional furniture principles, which allowed furniture to serve many purposes. The resulting “patent” furniture was practical and refined, though few were as innovative as Hawkins’ prodigious design. Carved with the year of the Exhibition on the beautifully designed pedestal base, the table is a testament to the significance of this innovation. The model is mentioned in detail in the catalog of the Great Exhibition of 1851, the first international exhibition of industry, manufacturing, and science. Held at London’s dazzling Crystal Palace, its visitors were treated to exhibits from around the globe, including feats of engineering, innovations in industry, and marvels of design. Queen Victoria herself was a frequent visitor, along with her husband, Prince Albert, and others including Charlotte...

This early 19th century Swiss gold vinaigrette has the charming addition of a musical mechanism. The entire box is crafted of 14-karat yellow gold envelo...

This magnificent and important Dutch mahogany bureau bookcase, exuberantly carved and adorned with superb figural carvings, impressive scrolled feet and elaborate applied decoration....

This incredible enameled silver plate and crystal dish set by Elkington & Co. represents one of that venerable company's first efforts at produci...

Pair of 19th century riding stirrups Made of wrought and engraved iron present the base part, where it is supported the foot, circular in shape. From it start two arched uprigh...

An elegant pair of heavy cast brass stirrups with Neoclassical relief decoration, the highlight being the bold anthemion motifs clasping the bar that catches the stirrup leathers. Th...

Two great examples of 18th century Spanish Colonial slipper stirrups. Not a pair, each similar yet different. One is brass with a lovely floral decoration, the other a rare copper type with a simple incised design. Both with a wonderful patina that only comes with real age and use. These definitely put in some serious miles. Possibly used in battle, or just to protect the rider from bramble. Imagine what these pieces of history may have witnessed. Unique gift for the equestrian or collector of horse memorabilia...

French 19th painted and gold gilt barometer and thermometer. It is a recognizable ‘banjo’ shaped scientific instrument with all the carved details in gold ...

19th Century oak Heraldic Shield With Carved Shell Work. Dimensions Height 18 Inches Width 13.5 Inches Depth 1.5 Inches.

A Botanical model by Robert Brendel, famous German botanist, 19th century. As detailed by the University of Aberdeen Zoology Museum, "In the late 19th century Botanist and model-make...