A Rare and Exquisite Silver, Enameled Chalice by Jules Wièse and Froment-Meurice

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...

Rare English silver-gilt book-form chess and backgammon game board, circa 1976. This exceptional and rare solid silver chess board converts into a backgammon board and can also be placed in a bookshelf to add more opulence. (3 in 1). This was most definitely a private commissioned piece by the House of Garrard...

Exquisite Victorian English Gold and Scottish Agate Perfume Bottle, Circa 1870 Presenting a truly exceptional Victorian gold perfume bottle, crafted in England around 1870, and showcasing the distinctive "Scottish pebble" design. This exquisite piece is a masterpiece of Victorian artistry, blending luxurious materials with impeccable craftsmanship. The perfume bottle is elegantly tapered and cylindrical in form, adorned with a stunning array of alternating lozenge, diagonal, and wavy band panels, meticulously inlaid with a rich selection of hardstones, including jasper, agate, and bloodstone. The intricate patterning of these precious stones creates a captivating visual display, embodying the refined taste of the Victorian era. A touch of opulence is added by the hinged lid, crowned with a striking bloodstone, and the delicate pearl push-button release, which adds a subtle, yet luxurious detail. This beautiful piece is further complemented by its original fitted box, a rare find that enhances its historical value and desirability. This Victorian perfume bottle...

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...

This is a Silver Chalice and Round Patten. It depicts a concave shaped cup adorned with an engraved garland of scrolls branches of leaves at the upper border. It is supported by a repousse stem decorated with cherubs’ faces, rocailles and scrolls of acanthus leaves. The round base also follows almost similar repousse pattern with cherubs’ faces and scrolls of acanthus leaves. Below the base is hallmarked...

Superb, museum quality antique French silver and niello enamel high relief sculptural pectoral cross 19th Century Complex and beautifully rendered crucifix done in finely detailed ni...

Silver Metal Chalice Jean Despres This Art Deco silver metal chalice, designed by Jean Després, is an exceptional piece that embodies the elegance and innovation of Art Deco design. ...

Liturgical chalice made of sterling silver. Chalice with a round and elegant shape, features an embossment over its entire surface On the cup and base, embossing and chiseling with ...