Holiday Gift Guide (Part III)
We enjoy searching worldwide for the finest quality objets d’art and paintings. In our three part Holiday Gift Guide we have gathered a selection of unique and interesting gifts to suit every person on your list. We have something for the tea, wine or cheese lover, those who yearn to travel or anyone who enjoys history or one of a kind objects. Each piece is unique and we explain what makes it special and rare. Enjoy!
For the Cheese Lover
Cheese has been enjoyed for over 7000 years, long before written history. One theory is that cheese production began as a happy accident as a result of transporting milk in containers made from the stomachs of herbivores which would have contained within them rennet, an enzyme that encourages curdling. The earliest direct evidence of cheese production has been found in Poland and Croatia, in the form of clay sieves, which are 7200 years old. Cheese was easier to digest than milk and high protein food for early peoples. There is evidence that cheese was being produced throughout Europe, Asia and North Africa. Cheese has been found as part of funeral meals in early Egyptian tombs. By Roman times cheese making was an art form, two chapters in Pliny’s Natural History were devoted to the diversity of cheeses eaten by Romans of the Early Empire.
Most of the cheese recognised today was initially recorded in the late Middle Ages. Cheddar, one of the oldest, is recorded as early as the 1100’s, Parmesan in 1597, Gouda 100 years later in 1697, Stilton in the 1720’s and Camembert by 1791.
Cheese is still one of the most commonly enjoyed foods the world over.
There are numerous items that were commonly used during the Georgian period but are no longer used and can be repurposed for today’s lifestyle. One of our favorite examples is our George III sleigh form cheese wheel. During the 18th and early 19th centuries, cheese was often the final course of the dinner meal. Cheese came in large rounds; the cheese would be placed in the cheese coaster and would be pushed along the table so that dinner guests could serve themselves. Although we may serve cheese after a meal, we no longer serve large cheese wheels. One modern use is as a vide poche, or catch all for keys, wallet, and extra items that show up in your pockets or purse. Another use could be for remote controls which multiply faster than the electronics they control. This fine example is elevated on a square plinth, raised on castors, and dates from the George III period. Whether you use it as a vide poche or as a design piece it would look wonderful on any side table, sofa table or sideboard.
George III mahogany sleigh form cheese wheel (Stilton) coaster, raised on a square plinth, raised on castors, circa 1780-1800. Size: 8 ½ x 17 in
A cheese press is used to 'knit' the curds to ready the cheese for storing and ageing. The pegged t-shaped pummel applies pressure to the cheese curds and forces the liquid whey to exude from the cheese. As the whey is released the curds form a firm rind on the outside of the cheese and a smooth, uniform consistency within. The solid wheel shape can then be aged.
This charming example is in the shape of a goat with bas relief carving on either end depicting the front and back of a ram.
Rare 18th century carved oak goat cheese press. Size: 10 x 12 ½ x 4 ½ in
Cheese scoops began to appear in the 18th century, coinciding with the emergence of Stilton cheese. A cheese scoop is made with a short, curved blade on a long handle similar in shape to a garden trowel. The curved shape would be used to core into the centre of a crumbly semi-soft cheese like a Stilton, or to cut a piece from a wax-covered cheese such as Edam or Gouda without having to remove the wax.
Stilton is traditionally made in a round wheel with a firm crust or coat. A cheese scoop allows you to remove the cheese from the centre of the wheel with ease, without the need to cut up the wheel. Cheese scoops are still a useful and elegant dining accessory, especially at Christmas time when Stilton is often served at the end of the traditional dinner along side a glass of port.
Watch this fun video to learn Stilton etiquette: HERE
Sterling silver Stilton cheese scoop with bone handle, London, circa 1797. Size: 9 ½ h in
Silver plated Stilton cheese scoop with fluted bone handle, hallmarked to underside, late Georgian, circa 1830. Size: 9 ½ h x 1 w in
For the Person who has Everything: Historical/Unique Objects
The most interesting part of our job is researching and writing about the unique objects we collect. Acquiring a quality antique brings a piece of history into your home, each one with a rich and unique story to unfold. As conversation pieces or just for display these objects have an interesting narrative to tell.
The Mint Julep cocktail has a fascinating history. Today it is associated with the American South and horse racing, in particular the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. Now commonly a bourbon cocktail it was once made with gin, rum or brandy mixed with simple sugar syrup, muddled mint and ice.
Mint julep appears in literature as early as 1784 and was prescribed for sickness of the stomach. Historically mint julep was drunk by farmers as a medicinal drink before heading to the fields for the day. It was described in a John Davis book published in London in 1803 as a “dram of spiritous liquor that has mint steeped in it, taken by Virginians of a morning”. It appears that the mint julep was our modern day cup of coffee of the early American South. In the 19th century it became popular at horse racing events as a cold muddled drink with the addition of shaved or crushed ice, and today over 120,000 of the cocktails are served at Churchill Downs.
A mint julep cup, traditionally made of silver or pewter, is designed to be held by the top or bottom so that the ice in the drink can produce a frost on the outside of the glass, preserving the coldness of the beverage. The top and bottom lip are rounded out to allow for ease of holding to prevent grasping the center of the cup. Julep cups are often personalized and given as gifts, as with this example from circa 1820 which is inscribed "Levi Tyler to his nephew Levi Tyler"
American silver julep cup inscribed "Levi Tyler to his nephew Levi Tyler", circa 1820, unmarked likely coin silver, slight dents noted. Size: 3 ¾ h in
Bronze mirrors were treasured items of high artistic and symbolic value, used in China for more than 3,000 years. While the front of the mirror was polished to a reflective shine, the back was decorated with stylistic images of nature or pictures of animals and symbols which bring good fortune. Some mirrors also incorporated a handle to attach them to clothing. While the traditional round form signified perfection and reunion, there was some variation in form, especially during the Han, Song, and Yuan dynasties. Even in the early 20th century, bronze mirrors were part of China's social, cultural, and everyday life until their glass counterparts replaced them.
This Chinese bronze mirror is from the Tang period (618 to 907) and has a patina of clay soil and green incrustation. The design features six mythical sea animals on a field of vine tendrils and clusters of grapes in high relief, with an outer garland of grapes and birds to the raised narrow rim.
Chinese bronze "Hai Ma P'u T'ao" round mirror, surface slightly convex and silvered, Tang period. Size: 4" in diameter.
Dyrehaven, just North of Copenhagen, is a natural park with lush forests, small lakes and wide, open landscapes. Renowned for the over 2,000 free range deer that inhabit the park, the park is part of the landscape that was once used for hunting by the Danish royalty. The park was designed for hunting with hounds, with roads linked by star-shaped trail systems making it easier for hunters to keep track of the dogs. In the center is The Eremitagen, the Royal Hunting Castle, designed by architect Laurids de Thurah in 1736 for King Christian VI. The grounds also are home to the Dyrehavsbakken, a 400 year old amusement which is the world’s oldest operating amusement park. The park also encloses Bollemosen, a peaceful high moor surrounded by a birch tree forest, which has a wide variety of rare plants and berries. In 2015 the park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Viggo Langer (Danish 1860-1942) ‘View from the Deer Garden’, oil on canvas, signed and dated "Viggo Langer 1904". Size: 14 ¾ x 20 ½ in (with frame 19 x 24 ¾ in)
For the Traveller
While we cannot travel easily, we can still dream, plan and reminisce of trips past and future. If you know a travel lover, we hope to inspire you with these gift ideas from around the world.
John Hammond is one of Canada’s earliest celebrated historical artists. A great admirer of the French Barbizon and Dutch Hague schools, he is best known for the atmospheric effects achieved in his landscapes and marine views. Born in Montreal in 1843, he travelled widely and is one of the earliest Canadian artists to exhibit at the Paris Salon, winning two awards in 1886. Sir William Van Horne, president of the Canadian Pacific Railway, was a great admirer of Hammond’s work and commissioned him to create murals for the railway’s hotels and offices across Canada. In 1900-1901 he travelled to China and Japan to promote the Canadian Pacific steamship line.
This work is from this period, depicting Mt. Fuji and is from the artist’s estate.
John A. Hammond, Rca, Osa (Canadian 1843-1939) ‘Fuji Yama, Japan’, oil on board, signed lower right "J. Hammond", stamped with estate inventory number 548 on reverse. Size: 11 x 16 ¾ in (with frame 17 ½ x 23 ½ in)
This interesting travel cup is decorated with engine turning and separates into three pieces. These cups were designed for sporting events, picnics, and travel and were first invented by John Lines of Waterbury, Connecticut, for Scovill Manufacturing Company of Waterbury, Connecticut. The U.S. Patent No. 577,764 was issued on February 23, 1897.
Silver plated telescoping travel cup, decorated with engine turning, circa 1900. Size: 3 ½ x 2 ½ in
Kakiemon is a traditional Japanese style of porcelain, characterized by a milky white (nigoshide) porcelain body and vivid, asymmetric designs to accentuate the white ground. The technique of enamel decoration on porcelain was an innovation developed by Sakaida Kakiemon in the Edo period, around 1680. The name “Kakiemon” was given to the potter for his impeccable depiction of the distinct reds and oranges of persimmon (kaki). The style was similar to the Chinese “Famille Verte” porcelain and was highly sought after throughout Europe.
The Kakiemon kiln was established in Arita, the town famous for its superb porcelain wares, and is still being operated today by the 15th-generation descendant of Sakaida Kakiemon.
The colours of this Kakiemon plate are true to the Kakiemon tradition: terracotta reds, turquoise greens and blues, alongside a smattering of sunny yellows. The minimalist composition maintains perfect balance from the tree branches reaching upwards to the deer grazing in the small scattering of grass near the bottom. The vivid colours stand out against the white background, which Kakiemon porcelain was famous for, and the almost transparent finishing glaze gives a lively final touch.
Japanese Kakiemon plate, with a pair of small deer and flowering trees, 18th century. Size: 6 ¾ in diameter
Small Collectable Gift Ideas
We always have a selection of affordable smalls and our customers enjoy searching for treasures in our cabinets and showcases. Sometimes the most interesting and special gifts come in small packages.
Photo frames are always a charming, personal gift. This fine example is hallmarked 1914 and with the Arms of Chester, three wheat sheaves and a sword in a shaped shield.
Sterling silver photograph frame with wooden backing, Chester 1914 maker HM. Size: 10 x 7 ½ in
SOLD
Taxco de Alarcón, known as simply Taxco, is heavily associated with silver, both with mining of it and for the crafting of it into jewellery, silverware and other objects. The city has been named one of Mexico’s "Pueblos Mágicos" (Magical Towns) due to the quality of the silverwork and the colonial construction related to the associated wealth. In 1522, the Spanish learned that the inhabitants of the area around Taxco paid tribute to the Aztecs in silver, and set about conquering the region and setting up mines. Don Jose de la Borda, a Frenchman of Spanish descent, became wealthy from silver mining in the 18th century, and commissioned the baroque Santa Prisca Church which is the centerpiece of the city. The town flourished in 1929 when William Spratling opened a workshop and trained artisans with his designs based on pre-Hispanic art. Silverwork and tourism related to it is the mainstay of the economy, although mining is no longer a major employer in the city.
These two charming walnuts are excellent examples of the quality of workmanship related to Taxco still today.
Taxco Mexico sterling silver walnut pill or trinket box, the two halves turn to unlock and open, fully marked on inner rim. Mexican circa 1960. Size: 1 ¼ h x 1 ¼ w x 1 ¼ d in
SOLD
Taxco Mexico sterling silver walnut pill or trinket box, the two halves turn to unlock and open, fully marked on inner rim. Mexican circa 1960.Size: 1 ¼ h x 1 ¾ w x 1 ¼ d
While the candle snuffer's component parts might still be familiar to us - scissors, a stand, dustpan - combined, they do look quite baffling. However, before electricity, candles and candle snuffers were an integral part of everyday life. Candle wicks used to be made of cotton which would start smoking and burst into flames as they grew longer, therefore necessitating regular trimming. The scissor part of the candle snuffer would sever the burnt wick, which would safely fall into the dustpan to be extinguished and discarded. This would also catch any dripping hot wax.
This is a particularly elegant example of a candle snuffer. While still a functional tool, the octagonal based stand was designed with graceful lines and clean proportions.
Early 19th century brass candle snuffer and stand, the snuffer with scissor-like handles and pointed tip, the octagonal based stand with a shaped handle, English circa 1840. Size: 7 ½ h x 2 ¾ w x 2 ¾ d in
Canadian/Indigenous Collectables
We enjoy researching and collecting works from established Canadian artists dating back to pre contact. Each piece we collect deepens our understanding and appreciation for Canada’s Indigenous history and cultures.
Rufus Moody was born is Skidegate, B.C., the son of the master carver Arthur Moody with whom he trained. He belonged to the Tanu Wolf clan crest, Raven Clan. The three generations of Moody carvers include Thomas, Arthur and Rufus, and are perhaps the most prolific family of argillite carvers. Rufus and his father are known for the very large poles they created, one of Rufus' best known being six feet tall. Other stylistic similarities between the three are short-beaked ravens and sharp cut-offs between figures.
Rufus Moody was a holder of the Order of Canada. He exhibited extensively throughout his career and helped keep the tradition of argillite carving alive by training younger Haida artists. His work is found in numerous North American collections.
Rufus Moody (Haida/ Canadian 1923-1998), argillite carving of an eagle pendant in silver mount, inscribed "Rufus Moody Esq. CWL?", on Italian sterling silver chain marked 925. Size: 1 ¾ h x 1 ¼ w in
A fine and rare 19th century Woodland or Great Lakes large burl bowl of highly figured burl patterns and inset finger hole handles. Carved from a large, knotted tree burl, this oval bowl has a dynamic sweep between the high ends and low sides. This piece was carved by someone who understood the weakness of burl wood and carved individual finger slots rather than a larger hole in order to provide more structural support and reduce the risk of breaks. This bowl would have been used as a food serving or preparation bowl. The exterior of the bowl has a beautiful, pitted patina while the interior shows the wear of hundreds of meals. Similar bowls are discussed in S. Powers book North American Treen: Colonia & Native American.
Great Lakes First Nations 19th Century carved burl wooden oval bowl with a flat bottom and finger holes in the ends to form handles. Size: 7 x 15 ½ x 11 ¼ in
Northwest coast First Nations canoes are a symbol of cultural identity. Beautiful works of art, they are possibly the single most manifestation of Northwest Coast cultural traditions. They are spiritual objects treated with great respect. Historically the canoe was formed from a single tree, painstakingly chosen and felled then carved without drawings, calculations, or modern engineering. The canoe was blessed at each step in its transformation from tree to boat. While the technology of canoe building is older than written history, they are still a practical vessel, producing a boat from a minimum amount of material. A canoe represents teamwork, unity, strength, and tradition to all that behold them. This carved and painted model canoe was most likely not made for a toy but as a work of art.
Northwest Coast wooden painted model canoe, signed and dated on base "BDS 99". Size: 3 ¼ h x 15 ½ w x 3 ¾ d in
Practical Antiques Gift Ideas
There is always someone on your list who enjoys a more practical gift. While antiques can be unique they can also be useful for everyday living.
Wooden tray with brass mounts and cooper barrel style sides ending in carved scroll handles, English circa 1840. Size: 3 ½ h x 23 w x 14 ½ d in
The mortar and pestle has been a vital tool which has remained unchanged in design for more than 10,000 years. In the kitchen, laboratory, or pharmacy, the mortar and pestle is a staple for wet or dry materials. They have been made from various materials throughout the years, including stone, porcelain, and wood. However, for the best practical use, the material cannot be too brittle or too permeable by wet ingredients so as not to contaminate whatever is being prepared.
This mortar and pestle is circa 1700, with a wide rim, an elongated body and two small handles. One of the unusual aspects of this is the colour. Gunmetal, or red brass, was initially used in the construction of guns, as the name suggests. However, being corrosion-resistant made the material perfect for many other industries. The warm metallic sheen makes this a particularly attractive piece, as a stand alone decorative object or a functional present for any kitchen connoisseur.
Gun metal mortar and pestle, mortar has two square handles. Continental, possibly French, circa 1700. Size: 3 ½ h x 3 ½ w x 3 ½ d in
SOLD
This chess set is inspired by the famous Victorian chess maker William Lund of London. It is finely carved and turned and sits on a modern marble chess board.
Finely carved and turned wooden chess set, inspired by the chess sets by the Victorian chess maker William Lund of London, on modern marble chess board
This charming pair of candlesticks is an excellent mid-19th century example with a stepped base and baluster stem. The push ejector pushes the tail end of the candle up the stem to be easily removed. Candlesticks always make excellent gifts, always setting an intimate setting for a table or preserving the symmetry of a mantelpiece.
Pair of brass candlesticks with round base, vertical faceting, with knopped and rounded baluster stem and push ejectors, mid 19th century. Size: 9 ⅛ h in