Rafael Contreras, A Large Spanish Alhambra Architectural Model Plaque

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...

A rare and important Italian alabaster bust sculpture of Jesus Christ, C. 1860 A modeled bust of Holy Christ wearing a crown of thorns, excep...

A Rare Alexis Falize Antique Gold and Cloisonné Enamel Locket, Circa 1867 This exquisite oval-shaped locket, crafted circa 1869, epitomizes the fusion of French artistry and Japanese aesthetic that characterized Alexis Falize's work during the late 19th century. The obverse features a meticulously rendered cloisonné enamel scene of a bird perched gracefully on a branch, while the reverse presents a serene landscape, showcasing Falize's mastery of the cloisonné technique and his deep appreciation for Japanese motifs.​ The locket is housed in its original Japanese silk box, reflecting the authenticity and preservation of this remarkable piece. Falize, a distinguished Parisian jeweler (1811–1898), was profoundly influenced by Japanese and Chinese art, integrating Oriental motifs and palettes into his creations. This fascination was part of the broader Japonisme movement that swept through Europe following Japan's opening to Western trade in 1854, introducing Japanese decorative arts to a captivated Western audience.​ Employing the cloisonné enamel technique—a method prevalent in traditional Japanese and Chinese metalwork—Falize delineated intricate designs using fine metal wires to create compartments (cloisons), which were then filled with vibrant enamels. This locket exemplifies such craftsmanship, with its vivid colors and precise detailing. Notably, Falize collaborated with esteemed enameller Antoine Tard, renowned for his Oriental-style cloisonné enamels. Tard's exceptional skill earned him accolades, including a gold collaborator’s medal at the 1867 Exposition Universelle in Paris. Their partnership produced some of the most celebrated cloisonné jewels of the era.​ Comparable works by Falize are held in prestigious institutions worldwide. The British Museum houses a gold locket adorned with cloisonné enamel by Falize, highlighting the significance of his work in their collection. The Metropolitan Museum of Art features a reversible brooch attributed to Falize, further exemplifying his expertise in cloisonné enamel. Additionally, the Cleveland Museum of Art acquired a similar cloisonné locket marked by Falize, underscoring the widespread recognition of his craftsmanship. The Victoria and Albert Museum and the Schmuckmuseum in Pforzheim also include Falize's cloisonné enamelled lockets in their collections, attesting to the enduring legacy of his work. ​ In the realm of private collections, Wartski London has featured rare cloisonné...

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

Impressive plaster model that reproduces in great detail the ornamentation of Nasrid architecture, evoking the majesty of the Alhambra in Granada. The piece stands out for its intric...

Very fine English early 19th century mahogany architectural model of a church, the multiple steeples flanking a faux carved slate shingled room, wh...

Miniature staircases are very rare, when you realize that such a miniature staircase represented almost as much work as creating a life-size staircase. Full detailed craftmanship. To...

3-449 hand crafted wood architectural model of a windmill. Detail of grinding stone on lower level and stairs to each level. Missing 2 of the...