Historical Memorabilia

Swedish actor Noomi Rapace made her name playing Lisbeth Salander in the recent dramatisations of Steig Larsson’s Millennium Series, beginning with The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo in...

Anna Friel began her career playing Beth Jordache on the popular British soap Brookside in the 1990s. Since then she’s appeared in some major TV series and films, including the recen...

Original French Movie poster for Jean-Pierre Melville's French New Wave film staring Pierre Grasset, Michele Bailly, Christiane Eudes, Ginger Hall. The...

- A black underslip worn by Madonna in a 1990 photoshoot for a promotional photo This black satin underslip with adjustable shoulder straps was owned and worn by Madonna as seen an...

Comic book fans will know Ezra Miller as The Flash. He’s played this iconic superhero in several movies set in the DC Comics extended universe, including Suicide Squad (2016) and Justice League...

Two items connected with Gretna Green, a popular site for runaway couples. A postcard signed by anvil priest Richard Rennison. An original blank marriage certificate...

- A hugely rare and intimate piece of British history: Admiral Horatio Lord Nelson's snuff box - Admiral Horatio Lord Nelson (1758–1805) is one of the most celebrated figures in British history, best remembered for his heroic efforts during the Napoleonic wars. Nelson's career as a naval officer saw him lead the British fleet to several victories, during which he suffered injuries, including the loss of his right arm and the sight in his right eye. His most famous victory came in October 1805 at the Battle of Trafalgar, in which the Royal Navy decimated the combined fleets of the French and Spanish navies. Prior to the battle, Nelson sent out the famous message "England expects that every man will do his duty". Tragically, he was shot by a French sniper and died on board his ship the HMS Victory mid battle. His body was returned to England where he was granted a state funeral, and numerous monuments were erected in his honor, including Nelson’s Column in Trafalgar Square, London. This tortoiseshell composition snuff box was originally owned by Lord Nelson, and features a miniature watercolor scene of the Amalfi coast on the top. The box was gifted by Nelson to his personal secretary George Unwin, during a dinner party in Sicily in late 1798 or early 1799 which was also attended by Nelson's mistress, Emma, Lady Hamilton. Nelson had first met Hamilton in 1793 and the pair were reunited in 1798 following the Battle of the Nile. Having been severely injured, Nelson recuperated in Naples, during which time he was nursed back to health by Lady Emma and her elderly husband, Sir William Hamilton. It was during this period that Nelson and Hamilton began their famous love affair, which lasted until Nelson's death at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805. It seems highly possible that Nelson gave this gift to Unwin as a show of generosity, in an attempt to impress his mistress over dinner. The snuff box is offered along with a manuscript letter by Unwin's son, George, which reads in full: "My Father had either lost his own snuff box on going ashore or in some shop in Palermo and upon mentioning the circumstances at Lady Hamilton’s table where Lord Nelson was one of the party his Lordship...

Italian motorcycle order to made for the Yugoslavian Special Force Tito . Made only 500 pieces. 70 of them was used for the President Tito military ...

Presenting an extremely rare first edition hardback copy of The Rural and Domestic Life of Germany with Characteristic Sketches of its Cities and Scenery, Collected in a General Tour...

18th century Palanquin. A child used this palanquin, an enclosed chair carried on the shoulders of four or more people supported by two long poles t...

Elliot Cowan took on the role of Mr Darcy in British TV miniseries Lost in Austen in 2008. He’s also starred in Luther and Agatha Christie’s Poirot. This ...

Striking early 20th century bookends with maker's mark. Since mediëval times alchemy has been part of virtually all cultures around the globe. The artist who created these stunning ...

Michael X (1933-1975) born Michael de Freitas, was also known under the Alias Michael Abdul Malik. A Black Power leader in 1960s Britain, de Freitas made his living from the numerous...

A wonderful signed photograph of Karen & Richard Carpenter for sale Musical duo Karen (1950-1983) & Richard Carpenter (1946-) were the number one American singing act of the 1970s. Their soft pop sound captivated the hearts of the millions worldwide who hung on every note of their 11 albums. They have sold over 100 million records to date. Karen Carpenter...

Christopher Eccleston is a seasoned film and TV actor, with credits ranging from Danny Boyle’s pitch black debut Shallow Grave (1994) to a brief stint as Doctor Who in 2005. This ...

In the Night Garden is a BBC children’s show that is shown in 35 countries around the world and has a string of merchandise attached. The show has been described as the BBC's "bigges...

English oil on canvas portrait dating from the late 1700s painted in the manor of Joshua Reynolds. We believe the giltwood frame could be the original as it is right for the period. ...

Early designed beaded Nez Perce martingale. Constructed stroud applied to canvas with beaded panels of hourglass and diamond motifs. Split tab and brass bell suspensions. Stunning pi...

A William Gladstone signed and inscribed title page. William Gladstone is the only person to serve four terms as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. He was first elected in 1868 and turned 84 during his final term in 1894. In that time he pushed for fundamental reforms, including votes for women and independence for Ireland. He remains one of Britain’s most inspirational leaders. This is the front page of an auction catalogue dated January 30, 1893 – Gladstone’s final year as Prime Minister. Along the left hand margin Gladstsone has written “Please send … lots as usual and c.o. 10 Downing St.” Gladstone autographs that mention 10 Downing Street, his Prime Ministerial address, are highly prized. Below you’ll find an excellent Gladstone signature and the date. Gladstone was a keen antiquarian and amassed a vast library of books...

No self-respecting man in Qing-dynasty China would leave the house without some kind of hat. In fact, headgear was so central to social status that a boy’s passage into manhood was m...

Hand-painted Masonic ceremonial plate signed Bondil a Moustiers. Perfect condition. Measures: 8 1/4" diam. x 1" H

This important and unique sword was presented to the famed French painter Jean-Gabriel Domergue to commemorate the painter's election to the illustrious Académie des Beaux-Arts in 1950. One of the highest honors bestowed on a French artist, the ceremonial induction into the French Academy has been accompanied by the presentation of a sword since the age of Napoléon. Rather than a weapon, the sword became part of the Academician's uniform, and, over time, its design came to represent the interests and aspirations of its recipient. This example was designed entirely by Domergue's wife Odette, a great sculptor in her own right, and thus it represents both a highly personal gift and an important art historical relic. The design of the sword is simply magnificent. Odette Domergue found her inspiration in antiquity, a theme that is also seen in the neoclassical sculptures that occupy the gardens of the couple's famous home, Villa Fiesole - also known as Villa Domergue - in Cannes. The impressive weapon boasts a solid gold handle that takes the form of a sinuous caryatid, who is nude save for a single swath of drapery. While the female figure recalls the sculpted supports prevalent in ancient Greek architecture, she also calls to mind the subjects for which Domergue was renowned - languorous, slightly risqué women with a seductive air. Other decorative elements such as fauna, cypresses, and grotesque heads enhance the whimsy and imagination of the incredible neoclassical design. Furthermore, the scabbard that contains the finely etched blade is also an impeccable work of art. Crafted of black Moroccan leather in imitation of the snake skin, it displays intricately engraved foliage patterns with a lion's head and Domergue's coat of arms. Though imagined by his wife, the sword was expertly chiseled by the celebrated goldsmith R. Delsinne and assembled by the atelier of the famed sculptor and medalist Raymond Delamarre...

- A pair of handwritten letters by one of the most influential writers of the 19th century, Lewis Carroll Charles Lutwidge Dodgson (1832-1898), known more commonly by his pen name...

Eldest son of John Lennon, Julian Lennon (1963-) is also a multi-million-selling musician. Julian's childhood drawing of a classmate inspired John Lennon's song Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds. His relationship with his father was one of turmoil and he forged a stronger bond with fellow Beatle Paul McCartney. McCartney wrote the song Hey Jude...

An Elkington & Company Silver Gilt Presentation Casket Hall Marked for Birmingham, 1891 and the maker; the casket, in the Victorian Gothic manner, with cluster columns at the angles...

- A document signed by one of the most significant world leaders in 20th century history, Winston Churchill This document relates to the naturalization of a Russian immigrant and ...

Garrard & Co, a very stylish, modernist style sterling silver pitcher and goblet set designed for Garrard by Alex George Styles in collaboration with John Churchill in 1974, as p...

1891 map of Norfolk county Massachusetts including the towns of Wrentham, Franklin, Medfield, Sherborn, Norwood etc., measures: 23 x 31.

- A Marilyn Monroe 1950 Autographed Magazine Cut-Out, attractively framed with UV-filtering archival glass Marilyn Monroe (1926-1962) is regarded as the most iconic female star th...

- A rare and beautiful Bebe Daniels and Ben Lyon autographed photo Ben Lyon (1901-1979) began his career as an actor on Broadway. He starred in a number of Hollywood movies, notab...

One of the original ephemeral Pop Art events of the 1960s, Claes Oldenburg's "Gayety" happening, is documented with this rare poster advertisement, and including a mimeo list of deta...

Seated figure with Thunderbird mask; carved yellow cedar, Thunderbird mask (eagle) depicted as head on a seated human body. Arms are dramatically open and outstretched. Large, richly detailed Thunderbird Mask, permanently attached with oblong eyes painted red, black and white. Edge decorated with dyed (red) spruce root as simulated mask harness over shoulders and across the chest. Dance apron; Seated figure wearing an apron of shredded cedar bark. Held on to figure at the waist with woven cedar string and abalone shell on button at back. Approximately 7" wide/long by 4" high. Bench; carved from cedar. Decorated on the back with bear face, outlined with inlaid red dyed spruce root. Ears, eyebrows and nose of inlaid abalone shell. Eyes of inlaid fossilized ivory...

48 star flag is made from a vintage oil cloth sewn on vintage linen. The frame is a custom made frame on each. Each Measures 14 x 17.5. If anyone would li...

This amazing piece of U.S. Naval history features signed items from all four World War II Navy Admirals to ever wear the five-star rank. All are cons...

For your consideration are these wonderful and original 1930s Art Deco three toned gents cufflinks. Slightly staggered and raised three toned enamel cufflinks on a rolled rose gold b...

Muslin shield with backhand hold, bundle sticks with red and yellow ochre and original shoulder carrying strap. Ex Kammerer Period: 19th Century Origin: Sioux, Plains Size: 16 1/2...

- A list of Victoria Cross recipients signed by Gurkha officer Rambahadur Limbu Nepalese Rambahadur Limbu (1939-) rose to the rank of Captain, as a Q...

A very handsome and impressive pair of relief portrait busts in copper depicting portrait busts of Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington (1769-1852) on the left, and Napoleon Bona...

Awesome vintage steel Right Lane Must Turn Right traffic sign. This is a large sign and is in fabulous vintage condition with just the right amount of age...

Lord Roberts of Kandahar silk handkerchief. This wonderful souvenir handkerchief has been newly framed in a shadow box frame and is mounted onto a linen background. The handkerchief is printed with an image of Lord Roberts of Kandahar in his military regalia with the words 'India 1879-1893, South Africa 1900, Lord Roberts of Kandahar' around the image. Kandahar and skiing are synonymous with each other after Lord Roberts lent his name to the world's very first downhill ski race...

Franco-American textile with the image of an eagle supporting knotted and draped american and French flags beneath four war planes; embroidered silk floss and metallic bullion thread...

Marilyn Monroe (1926-1962) needs little introduction. An actress, model and entertainer, she is perhaps the most recognisable of all screen icons. As such, her memorabilia is highly sought after, and continues to be widely collected across the world. History of the lock of hair...

- A touching handwritten love letter by one of the most legendary outlaws of the Old West, Frank James The letter, dated July 7, 1883, was written by James to his wife whilst he was in jail in Gallatin, Missouri. He was awaiting trial for murder and robbery of the Rock Island Line train at Winston, Missouri, in which the train engineer William Westfall and a passenger Frank McMillan were killed. Having spent a year in custody, James' trial began on August 20, and lasted just three days, before the jury returned a resounding verdict of 'not guilty'. The tender love letter reveals James to be both highly romantic and highly literate. Although he lived much of his life as a violent outlaw, he had been raised as a preacher's son surrounded by books, and during his youth developed a love for the works of Shakespeare. James was said to always carry a book in his saddle bag, even when he was on the run from the law, and he shared this passion for literature with Ann throughout their 40-year marriage. Here's the text in full: "My dear wife, "Your dear letter of the 1st was handed to me not exceeding an hour ago. It arrived here on the third, at least it is as marked. Now I sent foreword .. in this manner. There are very few men in this world that care anything for their wives, that they naturally suppose that all men are alike. "How badly they are deceived. If there is anything on this earth that is half as dear to me as my wife I have failed to find it. You are everything to me and the only living human being that has ever possessed my whole love, my entire confidence, the only one that ever will and I feel as that love and confidence will never be abused. "I have lived as I think to see all my fondest hopes realised. Long years ago I hoped and prayed that god would give me a true woman for my wife and i feel as if he has done so and anyone who has had a chance for happiness in this belief is more fortunate than the possessor of a thousand worlds. "I am trying to pass the time reading and writing - I regret that I am deprived of your beauty and I am writing to suffer that I have no visitors as told you in last. "Enclosed I send you an editorial from the trenchant pen of Rob M Yast that I think a grand effort. "I suppose you remember the circumstances of Jarvis shooting Englehart. Yast talks of love and forgiveness & Jarvis has shown that he possessed both - as also has Yast. He’s shown himself to be a true friend of me and mine. "Yast seems a man of most liberal whims. I dare say nine out of every ten would say that they would not forgive Jarvis for what he has done. Yet if it is the means of reclaiming ... I don't think he will ever regret it. "Regarding mamma, this may not be interesting to you but it has been to me. I had a letter from ma today, she feels disappointed as you did not visit... "I supposed it was useless to ask you again so will end further requests. I also had one further service. she also sends her kindness in regards to you and asked why you did not write. Please write her and let her know I will write Monday again. "When you write, write me care of Sherriff - I don’t think he will read them. "He has not opened any of my letters for a long time and if he should that would be better than not to get them so long after they’re written. I will kiss you both good night - write often your loving Ben/ f**k it is raining hard at this time." James autographs the letter as 'Ben', a protective alias that he used when writing to his loved ones. The single page letter, with text on both sides, measures 203 by 126mm, with fold creases and bleeding of ink in some sections. A remarkable piece of history, which offers a personal insight into one of the Old West's most legendary figures. About Frank James: Frank James (1843 – 1915) was a U.S Civil War Confederate guerrilla and notorious Old West outlaw. Together with his younger brother Jesse James...

- Clearly signed "HR" by King Henry VII - the first monarch of the House of Tudor - Dated 1499 and addressed to Sir Robert Lytton, Keeper of the Great Wa...

A vintage Persian Bakhtiari pictorial rug from the mid-20th century. Measures: 3' 10" x 6' 8"

- One of the most talked about pieces of Neil Armstrong memorabilia - Used to cut the hair of the first man on the Moon Neil Armstrong was best kn...

Elle Macpherson (1964- ) is an Australian businesswoman, television host, model, and actress. These Manolo Blahnik leather lined black suede boots w...

This is a highly desirable hanging wall map of the "World at One View", published in 1847 by Ensign and Thayer, New York. This pictorial map was printed as a broadside and features...

- Historically important metal food bowl, two wooden spoons and a wooden fork owned by Mahatma Gandhi, "Father of the Nation" - Used by Gandhi durin...

M. Stalker Long Studio bench from shipwreck wood and chain, 1863-1886 Studio piece crafted from the main ship haul of the M. Stalker, a Great Lakes 1...

A beautiful high quality deluxe brown/black suitcase, much travelled by the acclaimed and famous Polish/American opera and film star Jan Kiepura. Note ...

Painting of Frederick II., the Great, in oil on carton, in an oval gilt frame.

American painted vertical double circus side show banner of Armless Wonder and Jose de Lyon (signed: SNAP WYATT, Tampa, FL).

This 1966 nautical portrait is of the clipper ship "Sweepstakes". Originally intended as a menu cover for Pan Am Airlines, this piece has never been used and is in pristine condition...

American Federal-style (19/20th Century) bronze eagle base flag pole with eagle finial and flag.

Buffalo Bill's desk register used at the Irma Hotel, including a double inkwell, hotel bell, envelope holder, pen holder, two envelopes, baggage claim tag, ...

Continental Terracotta Plaque, Early 19th Century The large painted plaque depicts a view of the left side torso of a Continental Nobleman wearing the British Order of the Garter...

Exceptional large carved wood crest representing the British Royal family. Beautiful patina, original painted finish.