1840s Historical Memorabilia

Porous ceramic chess and checkers set with pieces. This simple game would make a lovely, light-hearted yet sophisticated gift. Ceramic is very delica...

This curved sword has a blued steel German blade with an ivory cross-hatched grip bearing silver and gilt mounts in the form of a lion’s head and mane. ...

A Rare and Historic 1859 Elkington Silvered Bronze Victorian Centerpiece with Cut-Glass Bowl. Presenting a magnificent Victorian silvered bronze centerpiece of unmatched rarity and importance, crafted by the renowned Elkington Mason & Co., Birmingham, in 1859. This exceptional work, complete with its original cut-glass bowl, epitomizes 19th-century British craftsmanship and artistry. Hallmarked to the base, this centerpiece showcases intricate sculptural details, embodying a high level of technical prowess and aesthetic refinement characteristic of Elkington's celebrated works. The centerpiece's striking design features three meticulously rendered figures—a young hunter, a friar, and a fishmonger—each embodying elements of Victorian life and industry. At their feet, a loyal spaniel and various game highlight the naturalistic approach to the composition, enhanced by the masterful chasing and dynamic form. This sculptural ensemble rests on an elaborately decorated base, exuding both grandeur and narrative depth. Adding profound historical value are two engraved plaques. The first, dated “January 28, 1859,” reads: “Presented to William Johnson Esq. as a token of respect & esteem by the workpeople in the employ of Messrs Richard Johnson & Brother, Manchester.” The second, an inscription from 1941, states: “Worshipful Company of Tin Plate Workers, Alias Wire Workers of the City of London, Presented by Arthur Laurence Johnson M.A., Grandson of William Johnson, both Wire Workers, with his Daughter Eleanor Morton Johnson, a Freeman of the Company, to commemorate his Mastership 1941-42.” These inscriptions chart a rich lineage, connecting the Johnson family to pivotal moments in industrial history. William Johnson, alongside his brother Richard, assumed leadership of a wire-drawing firm in 1838, which would later become Richard Johnson & Nephew Ltd. Their contributions included providing galvanized armored wire for the historic 1857 transatlantic telegraph cable...

Plank on frame model of the English Royal Yacht "Caroline". All planks are tree-nailed to the hull. Very well rigged with all appropriate standing and running cords. Imported from England...

Antique 19th Century Victorian solid silver mounted on sumptuous crocodile leather cigar case. It is of rounded rectangular form, with a pull off lid and interior that is sufficient ...

Large South Pacific Tridacna Gigas Clam shell The shell is in very good condition and with a beautiful pink tint.  

Antique map titled 'Amérique septe. Physique'. Small map of the United States. lithographed by C. Callewaert brothers in Brussels circa 1870.

Antique mid-19th Century very rare Victorian solid silver vesta case and lighter, in a shape of a horseshoe, opening on both sides, with a compartment for matches and a striker, with wheel to wind the lighter wick, one side is applied with initials "E.H". Hallmarked English Silver (925 standard), London, year 1853 (S), Maker's mark H.W.D (Henry William Dee...

ABOUT A vintage brass and copper plated racing car loving cup trophy mounted on tiered solid Walnut base. Shown with life size hand model for scale. CREATOR Unknown. DATE...

Unusual antique two-handled silver trophy cup with cast and hand chased detail including a cavalry horse riding scene depicting a competition of horsemanship inside an arena. There i...

A French silvered brass and brown leather Horse Racing binoculars stamped "Le Jockey Club Paris" presented in their original brown leather case. ...

The map is from the same 1882 Blackie Atlas and focuses on the Pacific States of the United States of America during that period. Here are some details and historical context about t...