The usage of the word “titanic” accurately classified the luxury and grandeur of the White Star Line’s most famous vessel, and later the magnitude of the disaster that struck the “unsinkable ship.” UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) estimates that around 3 million shipwrecks lie in the depths of the oceans, but unlike […]
Shaving Mugs: American Folk Art
In our June 26th Fine and Decorative Arts Signature Internet Session, we feature the American shaving mug collection of John Sturner. In the late Victorian era (1880-1910), most men owned a shaving mug that they kept at home or at a barbershop. Barbershops at the time were social spaces, where for only the cost of […]
Eastern Influence on American Aesthetic Movement Silver
In our upcoming April 12 Silver and Objects of Vertu Signature Auction, we feature a strong selection of American Aesthetic Movement objects, including many prized mixed-metal lots embellished with copper and gold elements. These pieces illustrate the wide range of influences on Western decorative arts in the late 19th century and the desire to integrate […]
Gold Fever: Cataloger Picks
When I was a child, one of my favorite action movies was the James Bond classic Goldfinger. The movie’s plot centers on the corrupt businessman Auric Goldfinger and his plan to steal the gold from the bullion depository at Fort Knox. However, the villain’s obsession with precious metal is ended when his plan is foiled […]
