Continental Europe - Collectibles and Curiosities

A Viennese bronze miniature cold-painted dog figurine A bronze miniature dog figurine. Cold painted bronze, signed and numbered on the belly...

Here we present a vintage Thorens Gramophone AD-30 disc player/ music box, Thorens model #755, circa 1975. The nostalgic solid wood cabinet was hand crafted by Thorens and features a...

Italian Silver and Gold Table Cigarette Holder Case, 1950s This elegant pair of mid-century modern silvered and gilded metal cigarette holders from the 1950s captures the essence of ...

Much sought after vintage 'organic' modern sterling silver bracelet. Fully hallmarked by Lapponia, Finland. Designed during the 1970s by Bjorn Weckstrom....

Cabinet of curiosities of plaster pieces and antique book artwork. Made in traditional Catalan atelier in Olot, Spain, circa 1950. Olot has a long tradition in the production o...

Nautical magnetic compass, signed by Henry Browne & Son Ltd Sestrel 1942, Barking & London 1942. Good condition, slight abrasion on compass rose. The compass is mounted on eboni...

Spanish wood Montserrat virgin statue made of painted. Made in Barcelona, Spain. The Classic religious figure is beautifully ornate and has wonderful details throughout her rob...

Stunning 19th century Gothic art pendant with three gargoyle sculptures. This late 1800s church relic truly has an aura of religiousness about it...

"Oak Panel Carved In High Relief Representing Saint Luke, Circa 1700" France or Southern Netherlands, circa 1700 Dimensions: 25.5 × 54.5 cm Material: Oak Technique: Deep relief carvi...

Antique mid-18th-century brass Gregorian refractor telescope, almost certainly made by James Short (1710-1768). Good condition, replaced eyepiece and missing lens, lathe rebuilt the ...

Antique and rare magnetic surveying compass, brass with original wooden box, signed E. Vion Paris, early 1900. Very good condition. Height of box cm 32 – inches 12.61. The firm Vion, that still works today, was established in 1830 in Paris and it has always manufactured navigation equipment, in particular compasses and marine instruments...

This rare and exquisite miniature antique German Bisque Head, Arms and Leg Doll is a must-have for Dollhouse and Doll collectors and enthusiasts alike. With its beautiful Sailers Outfit, it is suitable for any room and adds a touch of elegance to your Dollhouse. The set includes The Doll with the Outfit, all in very good condition. Made of Fabric, Bisque Porcelain parts and handmade by skilled craftsmen, this original piece is a testament to the rich history of German toys. Whether you're a fan of entertainment or vintage items, this dollhouse toy...

This wall bar from an old gym was completely restored, the wood shows a beautiful patina. Whether for a daily workout or as an object that also serves as a cl...

A rare "walking" Santa figure with a tree in his hand. Nice beard and moveable arms. Glitter on the ground symbolized the snow. Velvet clothing. Not a ...

Beautiful hand carved dog head walking stick cane. Manufactured in the Black Forest or Brienz Area at the end of the 19th century. Wonderfully expressive representation of a bulldog ...

Very interesting set of shells collected by an amateur between the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century. The shells are classified by size and age either in ...

The mini Pratone® plays with the juxtaposition of a "large-small" proportion by reducing to 7/8 the giant Pratone that was designed in 1972 by Ceretti, Derossi, and Rosso, and exhibited that year at the MoMA as part of the Italy: The New Domestic Landscape exhibition. Just like the original version, the base of the "mini" sculpture shows the writing ‘Pratone’ on one of the sides, and 42 soft stems stretching in different directions complete the radical look of this little icon. As if in a fairy tale, the Gufram icons have become smaller and have now turned into Guframini®! The most radical Italian design...

Polished ebony multigame. Contents chess, backgammon, dice, domino, playing cards and poker chips.

Decorative scandinavian vintage wooden truck, 1930s-1940s

Traditional Spanish brass trumpet. Manufactured in Spain by unknown manufacturer, circa 1960. In original condition, with minor wear consistent of age and use, preserving a beautiu...

Embark on a journey through time with this original Meccano building game, presented in its vintage box. Crafted by Meccano Limited in England, this piece of history invites you to u...

Unique antique Victorian bangle bracelet with buckle and enamel. Hand crafted in solid 14k gold and absolute fabulous blue enamel. A wide design covered with incredible textured work...

Stunning Pop Art PEZ dispenser from Austria. Made of plastic, in the 1970s. Marked made in Austria and US Pat. 2.620.061. It is a No Feet dispenser. Found at an estate sale in Vienna...

Wooden Casino Roulette, 1960s Vintage Design Immerse yourself in the glamorous atmosphere of the 1960s with this authentic wooden casino roulette. Authentic from the period in it...

Amazing and rare round shaped box, hand crafted in cardboard dating from the 1910s or older. The top of the box shows i view of the Nuremberg Castle in 3d optic. This antique box is ...

Original Singer sewing machine with all original parts. USA, circa 1920.

Mid-century porcelain table lighter Bjorn Wiinblad (Danish, 1918-2006) for Rosenthal, 1970s Quatre couleurs series Marked on the bottom H 10 cm - Diam. 10 cm Conditions: excelle...

Antique Map of the European Turkey, Greece & Ionian Islands – Stieler, c.1860 Original antique map titled *Die Europaeische Türkei, Griechenland und die ...

Anatomical models have been used for centuries as an adjunct to teaching anatomy, and play an important role in the history of anatomical education. Models became popular over time f...

Model of wooden boat hull On metal Base - 20th Boat - Decoration - Vintage Measures : 128cmx27cm H:43,5cm Wear consistent with age and use.

Title: 1808 C. Smith Map of Hindoostan – British India with Intricate Details This map, titled "Hindoostan," was published by C. Smith, a prominent London map seller, on January 6, ...

The map of Batavia (modern-day Jakarta) from 1681, attributed to Frederick de Wit holds significant historical importance for several reasons: Historical Context 1. Colonial Era: This map dates back to the Dutch colonial era when Batavia served as the administrative and commercial hub of the Dutch East India Company (VOC). The VOC was a powerful trading entity that played a crucial role in the global spice trade and colonization in Southeast Asia. 2. Strategic Importance: Batavia was strategically located on the northwestern coast of Java, providing the Dutch with a critical base for their maritime operations. The city became the center of Dutch political and military control in the region. Cartographic Significance 1. Detailed Urban Layout: The map meticulously details the layout of Batavia, including its fortifications, canals, streets, and significant buildings. This level of detail provides insights into the urban planning and architectural styles of the period. 2. Military Engineering: The fortifications shown on the map illustrate the advanced military engineering techniques used by the Dutch to protect their valuable colony. The walls, bastions, and moats indicate the strategic considerations taken to defend against potential invasions. 3. Maritime Activity: The depiction of ships in the harbor highlights Batavia's role as a major maritime center. The VOC's fleets were essential for trade routes connecting Europe, Africa, and Asia, making Batavia a crucial node in global commerce. Artistic and Cultural Value 1. Artistic Elements: The decorative elements, such as the lion holding a shield and the intricate cartouches, reflect the artistic trends of Dutch Golden Age cartography. These embellishments were not only informative but also served to display the cartographer's skill and the map's prestige. 2. Cultural Exchange: Maps like this one provide evidence of cultural exchange between the Dutch and the indigenous populations of Java. The blending of Dutch and local influences can be seen in various aspects of the map and the architecture of the city. Rarity and Preservation 1. Rarity: Maps from the 17th century, especially those in good condition, are relatively rare and highly valued by collectors and historians. Each map provides a unique snapshot of historical geography and urban development. 2. Preservation of History: This map serves as a historical document, preserving knowledge about Batavia's cityscape, infrastructure, and colonial governance. It helps historians and scholars understand the socio-economic and political dynamics of the period. Conclusion The map of Batavia from 1681 is special due to its detailed depiction of one of the most important colonial cities in Southeast Asia during the Dutch Golden Age. It reflects the strategic, economic, and cultural significance of Batavia, serving as a valuable resource for understanding the history of Dutch colonialism and its global impact. The map's artistry and precision make it an important artifact in the history of cartography. --------------- The map is an original and historical map of Batavia (present-day Jakarta) on the island of Java, dated 1681. There are several details to consider when evaluating its origins and possible authorship: 1. **Style and Detail**: The intricate details and style are reminiscent of maps created by Frederick de Wit, a prominent Dutch cartographer and engraver of the 17th century. He was known for his detailed city maps and sea charts. 2. **Lack of Signature**: The absence of "F. de Wit, Excudit" could indicate either an omission or a different engraver. However, it is essential to note that some maps from that period were reproduced or copied by other engravers and cartographers. This was not uncommon, as map-making was a collaborative effort, and copies of popular maps were frequently made. 3. **Map Characteristics**: - The depiction of ships and the detailed fortifications are typical of Dutch cartography in the late 17th century. - The decorative elements, such as the lion holding a shield, are also characteristic of Dutch map engravers. 4. **Other Possible Engravers**: While Frederick de Wit is a strong candidate, other notable Dutch engravers from that period include Joan Blaeu and Willem Janszoon Blaeu. They also produced highly detailed maps and could potentially be the creators or inspirers of this map. To determine the precise authorship, you might consider: - **Comparing** this map with other confirmed works of Frederick de Wit and his contemporaries to identify stylistic similarities and differences. - **Historical Records**: Consulting historical records or publications related to Dutch cartography in the 17th century might provide more context or even direct references to this particular map. If you have access to additional details or higher-resolution images of specific sections, it might help further pinpoint the map's origin and authorship. ------------- Frederick de Wit (1629–1706) was a prominent Dutch cartographer, engraver, and publisher known for his detailed and decorative maps, atlases, and globes. He played a significant role in the Dutch Golden Age of cartography, contributing to the wealth of geographic knowledge and artistic achievement during this period. Here are key aspects of his life and work: ### Biography - **Early Life**: Frederick de Wit was born in Gouda, Netherlands, in 1629. Little is known about his early years, but he moved to Amsterdam, the epicenter of Dutch cartography, in the mid-17th century. - **Career Beginnings**: De Wit began his career as an engraver and publisher, initially producing maps that were reissues of earlier works by other cartographers, such as Joan Blaeu and Willem Janszoon Blaeu. ### Contributions to Cartography - **Mapmaking**: De Wit was known for his meticulous attention to detail and artistic flair. He produced a wide range of maps, including world maps, regional maps, city plans, and maritime charts...

Natural specimen from Wunderkammer Stuffed bird Red crossbill (Loxia Curvirostra) mounted on a wooden base with cartouche Specimen for laboratory and Natu...

Very beautiful wavy bowl from the Dugan Glass Company in the United States, first quarter of the 20th century, in iridescent molded glass, called carnival ...

An Industrial plane model made in the 1980s. This unique object is made of metal and has a chrome finish. A nice Industrial sculpture for displaying them on a cupboard, credenza, or ...

Magnificent 18th-century silver-plated reliquary, oval in shape and featuring meticulous ornamentation. Inside, it houses numerous relics of saints, carefully arranged and protected ...

English mid-century modern vinyl record player case by His Master's Voice, 1950s Rectangular case vinyl record player. Structure in dark and light b...

United by both their passion for transforming materials into materials to amaze and excite, Alessandro Ciffo and Andrea Zambelli deepen their collaboration through a game and find a ...

Walking Stick with Seat Measurements: H. 89 cm / seat dimensions: 15 x 44 cm - H. 74 cm Era: early 1900s Origin: Germany Wood: Metal and leather Description Special walking stick,...

Harrods of London Mid Century Deck of Playing Cards. Very stylish and decorative deck of mid century playing cards by Harrods of London - made by h...

A rare Santa figure with a tree in his hand. Very characterful representation and expressive in its appearance. Velvet dust cover as clothing. Was probably a candy container, but the...

Rare tool kit designed by Koyo Sangyo, Japan, 1980s. This complete set represents the 'Memphis' period and includes: a handsaws, a Hammer, two screwdrivers an...

Vintage hat box is a precious old decorative object realized in the early 20th century. This vintage hat box belonged to the famous sculptor Aurel...

Antique map titled 'Novissima Totius Terrarum Orbis Tabula, Auctore Nicolao Visscher'. Gorgeous example of Nicholas Visscher's World map, which appeared...

When it comes to defining elegance and affluence as a lifestyle, Lalique crystal comes to mind for most people. From its earliest days to present times, the Lalique Company has consi...

Early religious work of art, presented in the original antique frame. This beautiful and uplifting portrait of Saint Joseph holding hands with the child Jesus is an oil on canvas an...

Vintage butterfly poker card game set box, screen print on wood, with two decks of playing cards, eight dices and chips / Designed by PIero Fornasetti, made in Milan Italy by Fornase...

Very rare gadget-System walking stick: stick with the function of a music instrument, a flute. Painted fruitwood shaft, wooden handle. Inside the shaft is hollow, and holes and keys ...

Antique Japanese Ehon Book Meiji Era, but details are unknown Woodblack print book Book dimensions 266 mm x 190 mm There are damages because it is antique item as we show on the ph...

Refined Madonna and Child Statue – c. 1950 – West Germany – Signed HM An exquisite mid-century ceramic statue depicting the Virgin Mary and ...

A wood sculpture wonderfully carved depiction of the Virgin Mary with Jesus Child gilded with gold leaf and polychrome painted, Spain, mid-18th century...

Chatelaine from the early 20th century. An early 20th century silver-plated chatelaine. H: 36cm, W: 5cm, D: 2cm

Title: Historic 1864 Civil War Map of Pennsylvania and New Jersey with Coastal Focus Description: This meticulously crafted antique map, titled "Johnson's Pennsylvania and New Jerse...

Penny machines "Chad" Oliver Whales collection - Ruffler & Walker Collection Penny machines "Chad" Oliver Whales collection - Ruffler & Walker Collection...

Antique Japanese Samurai Manga book Edo period, circa 1840 Woodblack print book Book dimensions: 224mm x 156 mm There are damages because it is antique item as we show on the ...

America's Cup. Edition of 825. Hardcover bound in a cotton sailcloth, with metal closure manufactured by Louis Vuitton, book block with silver edges, 12.1 x 16.1 in, 16.86 lb, 564 pa...

This Czech gym stool or turn bock was produced in the 1930s. It has been shortened to a height of 54 cm. The iron feet are preserved. The thick cowhide has b...

This beautiful Art nouveau green and golden color cast iron Christmas tree stand, was made in Germany, in the 1910s. A nice addition for your Christmas decoration. It holds a stem up...

Great Italian design desk fan. Early 60s space age. Made of plastic and chromed metal. There is a on and off button on the backside, made by BJM. The fan works like a charm (the move...

This 16th century hand-carved wooden Virgin Mary polychrome statue comes from a church in Sint-Niklaas, Belgium (Europe), and was bought directly fr...