{"title":"Curios","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"a-good-pair-of-taxidermy-mounted-american-plains-bison-horns-ag218","title":"A Good Pair of Taxidermy Mounted American Plains Bison Horns","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003cbr\u003ePeriod: Late Nineteenth \/ Early Twentieth Century\u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003eDate: c.1900\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 13 inches (the whole)\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 18 inches (horns) or 23.5 inches (mount)\u003cbr\u003eDepth: 5.5 inches (the whole)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe horns with skullcap on pine mount are in good condition with no hair drop and only tiny areas of loss to the top section.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThese horns belonged to a male plains bison, distinguishable from the wood bison by the thick bonnet of hair we see here between the horns.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe North American bison, or buffalo, is the largest land animal in North America. A bull can stand 2 m high and weigh more than a tonne. Roaming free in North America, between 30 million and 70 million strong in the 1800s, bison can distinguish smells from 3 km away and at one time used traditional migration routes across the prairies that are still visible from the air as deep, worn paths.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA bold and imperious statement amongst taxidermy mounts.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562575032600,"sku":"AG218","price":180.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image221.jpg?v=1787571700"},{"product_id":"a-good-quality-20thc-dome-cased-pair-of-taxidermy-rainbow-lorikeets","title":"A Good Quality 20thC Dome Cased Pair of Taxidermy Rainbow Lorikeets","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Mid Twentieth Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1950-80\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 14 inches (the whole)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBase Diameter: 8.75 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe well preserved and mounted pair of rainbow lorikeets (Race Moluccanus) perched on a naturalistic outcrop under a good quality late Victorian glass dome and raised on an ebonised plinth socle base survives in very good overall condition from middle of the twentieth century.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThere's no such thing as a nice shade of brown\u003cbr\u003eI don't want a pastel or grey coloured crown\u003cbr\u003ePurple, that's more like it, and not in tones muted\u003cbr\u003eBright orange and yellow is to what I'm much better suited\u003cbr\u003e“Less is more!” What feather brain uttered those words?\u003cbr\u003eA sparrow or a wren, those dull, drab speckled birds\u003cbr\u003eI'm bright and I'm bold, decked out in every hue\u003cbr\u003eWatch me, in Technicolor, it's a spectacular view\u003cbr\u003eGlimpse a flash of my feathers and you'll gasp in amazement\u003cbr\u003eGet used to it, pick your jaw off the pavement…\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRainbow Lorikeets are monogamous and pair for life.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562575130904,"sku":"rainbowlorikeets","price":490.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/rainbows2.jpg?v=1787571705"},{"product_id":"a-good-quality-c-1940-dome-cased-taxidermy-magpie-on-ebonised-plinth","title":"A Good Quality c.1940 Dome Cased Taxidermy Magpie on Ebonised Plinth","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Early\/Mid Twentieth Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1930-50\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 17.5 inches (the whole)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 14.5 inches (mount)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBase Width: 14 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe stuffed and mounted magpie perched on a naturalistic rocky outcrop under a good quality Victorian glass dome and raised on an ebonised plinth socle base survives preserved from the early to mid twentieth century.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOne for sorrow,\u003cbr\u003eTwo for joy,\u003cbr\u003eThree for a girl,\u003cbr\u003eFour for a boy,\u003cbr\u003eFive for silver,\u003cbr\u003eSix for gold,\u003cbr\u003eSeven for a secret never to be told.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSo the superstition goes that seeing one magpie constitutes as bad luck, but saluting to the magpie apparently counteracts this. We salute you, sir; and why wouldn't we you handsome chap you…","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562575229208,"sku":"magpie","price":290.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/IMG_4013.jpg?v=1787571709"},{"product_id":"a-good-quality-masquerade-ball-mask-in-the-form-of-butterfly-wings-with-skull-decoration-ag125","title":"A Good Quality Masquerade Ball Mask in the Form of Butterfly Wings with Skull Decoration","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003cbr\u003ePeriod: Late Twentieth Century\u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003eDate: c.1990 \u003cbr\u003eMask: 8 inches high x 5 inches wide (all at maximum)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe white metal framed gem set spider web effect butterfly shaped mask, beset with a plethora of white paste stones, with smaller stylised butterfly and skull motifs surmounted to the nasal bridge and tied to the reverse with a black satin band.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThere is some weakness to one or two junctures but overall the condition is essentially very good. With no loss or damage to report.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMasquerade balls were a feature of the Carnival season in the 15th century, and involved increasingly elaborate allegorical Royal Entries, pageants and triumphal processions celebrating marriages and other dynastic events of late medieval court life.  John James Heidegger, a Swiss count who arrived in London in 1708, is credited with having introduced the Venetian fashion of a semi-public masquerade ball, to which one might subscribe, to England, London in the early eighteenth century, with the first being held at Haymarket Opera House. Masks themselves are used almost universally and maintain their power and mystery both for their wearers and their audience.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA very finely made piece of delicate costume jewellery with a gothic twist, which, if looked after, will prove a choice antique of the future.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562575524120,"sku":"AG125","price":180.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/supersize617.jpg?v=1787571720"},{"product_id":"a-good-quality-mid-20thc-taxidermy-bison-head-mount","title":"A Good Quality Mid 20thC Taxidermy Bison Head Mount","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: American\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Mid\/Late Twentieth Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1960-80\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepth: 25”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 31”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 23” (all at extremities, eg horns \u0026amp; hair)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe massive American bison (Bison bison) head and neck mount, also commonly known as the American buffalo, having a shaggy, long, dark brown winter coat and short curved horns, the whole preserved in excellent all round condition from the middle part of the twentieth century.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eExert from The Last Bison by Charles Mair\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHe was the last survivor of his clan!\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHuge was his frame! the famed Burdash, so grown\u003cbr\u003eTo that enormous bulk whose presence filled\u003cbr\u003eThe very vale with awe. His shining horns\u003cbr\u003eGleamed black amidst his fell of floating hair–\u003cbr\u003eHis neck and shoulders, of the lion's build,\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWere framed to toss the world.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562575556888,"sku":"bisonbison","price":1300.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/bisonbison3.jpg?v=1787571721"},{"product_id":"a-good-quality-open-mounted-mid-20thc-taxidermy-fox-mask-forequarters-age18","title":"A Good Quality Open Mounted Mid 20thC Taxidermy Fox Mask \u0026 Forequarters","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: Mid Twentieth Century\u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003eDate: c.1950-70\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 17 inches\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 8 inches\u003cbr\u003eDepth: 14 inches (all at maximum)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOffering Horace the fox, his head and forequarters wonderfully well preserved and in excellent condition, snarling open mounted as if appearing through a wall.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHorace was the top British athlete of his day and won gold at the Commonwealth games for Animals (1955) and the Animal Olympics (1959). His fearsome running, best over medium distances, (think 400-800 meters) meant he was a mini celebrity of his time.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the 1959 Animal Olympics the biggest drama occurred in the 800 meter race, when US whippet runner Rod MacDowell, who crossed the finish line first, was disqualified for obstructing the Horace, the British competitor. Complicating matters, Britain and the United States had different rules on obstruction, and, while the final was re-run, MacDowell and two other US athletes, a badger and a stoat, refused to take part so Horace had to sprint round the track alone. He was awarded the gold after the American teams appeals were turned down.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNow preserved in his notorious sprinting pose, Horace is happily in fox heaven running, and running and running.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562575622424,"sku":"AGE18","price":270.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image564.jpg?v=1787571724"},{"product_id":"a-good-quality-victorian-dark-patinated-cast-iron-paperweight-in-the-form-of-a-ladies-hand-c-1870-80","title":"A Good Quality Victorian Dark Patinated Cast Iron Paperweight in the Form of a Ladies Hand c.1870-80","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Late Victorian\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1870-80\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 5”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 2.5” \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBase Diameter: 1.5” (all at extremities)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe good quality dark patinated cast iron novelty desk or paperweight, finely modelled as a dainty female hand to a bejewelled lace cuff, having a cabochon ring to the index finger and on a circular base, survives from high Victorian England.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn very good condition, the piece has expected wear and a lovely dark and rich tinted patination that comes with all un-cleaned pieces of this age. There are a few very small dinks commensurate with daily use.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOne does see this type of female hand also represented more commonly in paper clips of this period but rarely to this level of sophistication. The casting is very sharp. Fanniere Freres of Paris made a fairly similar paper-weight in 1880. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAmidst the decorative excess that typified Victorian times, paperweights provided a respite of exquisite craftsmanship and conservative artistry. They became a popular gift item to be given to family or loved ones and were sold in stationery stores, and fine glass shops throughout Europe and Great Britain, and eventually in America.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA superbly decorative yet functional piece of Victorian desk furniture, and of fine quality, making humble paper that much more of an attractive proposition.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562575786264,"sku":"1600","price":395.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/femalehandpaperweight2.jpg?v=1787571731"},{"product_id":"a-good-quality-victorian-dome-cased-taxidermy-white-cockatoo-c-1880","title":"A Good Quality Victorian Dome Cased Taxidermy White Cockatoo c.1880","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Late Victorian\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1880\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 25.5” (the whole)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Base: 13.5” Wide x 9” Deep\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe stuffed and mounted White or Umbrella Cockatoo, Cacatua alba, in good overall condition, perched amidst a well executed naturalistic setting with butterflies, flora and fauna, under a good quality late Victorian glass dome with gold velvet lining on a rectangular base and raised on an ebonised plinth with gold rope twist border survives preserved the late Victorian period.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eWhite Cockatoo by Douglas Stewart\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNow they have left the moon out over the paddock. \u003cbr\u003eThat should have been shut in the dark with the sun for padlock.\u003cbr\u003eAnd pale like a ghost it floats where the blue noon burns. \u003cbr\u003eKeep the night's creatures away! For see, it's escaping, \u003cbr\u003eWhiter enormous it flies at my red gum flapping in a flurry of snow with black legs reaching, \u003cbr\u003eand turns to a great white cockatoo, that bird or no bird, \u003cbr\u003eshrieks in a voice that only night should have hear and rears up its yellow crest as wild as the moon's.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562575819032,"sku":"cockatoo","price":1380.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/cockatoo3.jpg?v=1787571733"},{"product_id":"a-good-quintet-of-late-19thc-fluted-green-glass-apothecary-bottles-agq23","title":"A Good Quintet of Late 19thC Fluted Green Glass Apothecary Bottles","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003cbr\u003ePeriod: Late Nineteenth Century \u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003eDate: c.1890\u003cbr\u003eBase Diameter: 3.5 inches\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 9 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOf fluted design, with plain inset banner shaped labels the five green glass apothecary bottles with clear cut glass square stoppers and mark ‘W’ to bases.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAll five bottles are in superb condition with no flaws to report outside of general wear consummate with age. Two of the stoppers are currently jammed shut but could probably be released with warm water if so desired.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThese bottles are all typically unmarked and would have helped to form the apothecaries stable, being used daily to carry oils, water or mixtures.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTo find five together in this kind of condition is pleasing and they would dutifully form a beautiful display of medicinal ages past amongst a contemporary kitchen backdrop. Try it.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562575884568,"sku":"AGQ23","price":99.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/supersize543.jpg?v=1787571736"},{"product_id":"a-good-french-c-1890-wax-shop-display-mannequin-head-of-a-lady","title":"A Good French c.1890 Wax Shop Display Mannequin Head of a Lady","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: French\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: 3rd Republic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1880-1900\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 9 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepth: 8 inches (all approximate and at maximum)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe beautiful wax-work modelled head, in painted translucent wax with implanted human hair and glass eyes survives from late nineteenth century France.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCondition wise the head is in very good order with only a small section of loss to the collar. It can be free standing and remains in original condition throughout and does not require any form of restoration.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMannequins have fascinated mankind for centuries. Indeed, these glorified coat hangars have a genealogy that goes back to ancient times. When Howard Carter opened King Tut's tomb in 1923, he discovered an armless, legless, wooden torso, made exactly to the pharaoh's measurements, standing next to the chest that held the ruler's clothing. Dating from 1350 B.C., it may have been the world's first dress form. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWith their keen appreciation for style the French introduced the first full-bodied mannequin in 1870. Such was the allure of the then-wax figures that window shopping quickly became a form of entertainment; millions came to stare at a make believe world frozen in place. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe most realistic mannequins of this era were those of wax, like this example, and like today's mannequins, they mirrored the times. Though their false teeth, glass eyes and real hair, implanted with warm needles a strand at a time, had a definite taxidermist's air about them, they sported the full bosoms and broad beams of the gay '90s woman. Waists were wasp thin, not surprising at a time when women were willing to suffer for their beauty to the point of having their lowest ribs surgically removed to achieve an appropriately modified midriff. At least for the mannequins it was painless.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHailing from a time when shop display was quite simply a work of art, this wonderfully haunting piece perfectly conveys and preserves the idealised image of the late Victorian woman.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562576769304,"sku":"waxdisplayhead","price":595.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image_76a03988-5886-4952-a729-abeade727c48.jpg?v=1787571762"},{"product_id":"a-good-large-upper-section-of-a-19thc-male-lion-s-skull","title":"A Good Large Upper Section of a 19thC Male Lion's Skull","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: African\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Mid\/Late Nineteenth Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1870\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 5.5 inches (at maximum)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 9.5 inches (at maximum)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLength: 14 inches (at maximum)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe large cranium of an African male lion (Panthera Leo) skull with deep eye sockets and nasal cavities, surviving from the latter half of the nineteenth century.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe condition of the whole is good with a well-aged patination and ivory hue making the skull very tactile. There is one section of loss to one side of one of the lower parts of the eye socket. There are no obvious clues as to how the lion died.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUnusually social compared to other cats, lions live and hunt in prides, preying on savannah creatures such as wildebeest, impalas, and zebras. Lions have the loudest roar of any of the big cats, which can be heard at a distance of up to 8 kilometers. Though they commonly avoid interaction with humans, incidences of lion attacks by “man-eaters” are not unheard of when food is scarce or lions become old or sick. The Panthera leo, the African lion, evolved in Africa between 1 million and 800,000 years ago.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA lion's skull is strong and heavy, with deep ridges and hollows for the attachment of powerful jaw muscles and looks very much alike that of a tiger although slightly more depressed and flattened and with a shorter postorbital region.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTabletop antique osteology for those who like their interiors to mutter tales of slow sultry days in African wilds, of moonlit nights and scarlet dawns.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562577195288,"sku":"lionsskull","price":320.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image_4028458.jpg?v=1787571781"},{"product_id":"a-good-mid-20thc-cased-atlas-silk-moth","title":"A Good Mid 20thC Cased Atlas Silk Moth","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: British\u003cbr\u003e Period: Mid Twentieth Century \u003cbr\u003e Provenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003e Date: c.1950-60\u003cbr\u003e The Case:\u003cbr\u003e Height: 8 inches\u003cbr\u003e Width: 10 inches\u003cbr\u003e Depth: 1.5 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e The rectangular oak case housing a large Atlas silk moth (Attacus atlas) specimen survives from the middle of the twentieth century.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Overall condition is very good with no loss to either the specimen or case to report.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Atlas moths are said to be named after either the Titan of Greek mythology, or their map-like wing patterns. In Hong Kong the Cantonese name translates as \"snake's head moth\", referring to the apical extension of the forewing, which bears a more than passing resemblance to a snake's head. They are considered the largest moths in the world in terms of total wing surface area (upwards of c. 400 cm2). Their wingspans are also amongst the largest, reaching over 25 cm. Females are appreciably larger and heavier.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e An attractive conversation starter.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562577588504,"sku":"atlasmoth","price":49.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image_9.jpg?v=1787571797"},{"product_id":"a-good-ordovician-period-orthoceras-specimen-in-a-william-iv-frame","title":"A Good Ordovician Period Orthoceras Specimen in a William IV Frame","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: Probably Morocco\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Ordovician\/William IV\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.450 million years BP\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 22.5”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 15”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepth: 1.75”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe wonderfully preserved single framed specimen, being double sided and set within a late Regency\/ William IV spiral twist frame of superb quality, the specimen polished and of good size, the whole in good original order.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn fine condition, now well polished for display and with a smooth finish, with some small hairlines throughout as photographed.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe ancestors of the squid and octopus, an orthoceras is an ancient mollusk that lived in the Ordovician period. At that time, the earth was mostly covered in water. It had a soft squid-like body inside a cone shell. Over time, its aragonite shell turned into calcite and fossilized. The name means straight horn, referring to the characteristic long, straight, conical shell. The preserved shell is all that remains of this ancestor of our modern-day squid.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis museum quality piece was probably part of a gentleman's grand tour and curiosity display, part of a study or library setting and the frame was made specifically for it in the late Regency to early William IV period.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA seriously good country house thing.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562577948952,"sku":"2480","price":817.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/orthocerasspecimen1.jpg?v=1787571812"},{"product_id":"a-good-pair-of-early-20thc-bisque-baby-doll-heads-by-the-diamond-pottery-co-agx8","title":"A Good Pair of Early 20thC Bisque Baby Doll Heads by The Diamond Pottery Co.","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003cbr\u003e Period: Early Twentieth Century\u003cbr\u003e Provenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003e Date: c.1920\u003cbr\u003e Circumference: 10.5 inches (at widest point)\u003cbr\u003e Height: 4.25 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e In original condition, the pair of flesh coloured bisque baby doll heads by the Diamond Pottery Co., England, c. 1920 Impressed \"D.P.C. 164-8\" each having flanged necks,, painted blue eyes \u0026amp; and moulded hair, one with eyebrows, the expressions differing slightly.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e The condition of the heads is excellent considering the age and fragility of the pieces, with no chips or cracks, nor any restoration evident.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Diamond Pottery company, of Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent was an earthenware manufacturer, formerly named the Pearl Pottery Co and in operation from 1908 – 1935. Pearl Pottery itself was formed in Brook Street, and established by Ralph Salt (worked 1820-42, died 1846) and he and his successors, Richard Booth and Williams and Willet, manufactured painted earthenware figures. In 1860, the works passed into the hands of of William Taylor, who commenced making white granite and common coloured and painted ware. He was succeeded in 1881 by Wood, Hines and Winkle, who produced 'opaque porcelain' in all the usual services for dinner, tea, breakfast and toilet; a large number of specialties in dejeuner, five o'clock tea, trinket, and beer sets; vases, plaques, cruets, and other useful and ornamental articles up to 1885.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e We believe that if you use your imagination, this beautifully made pottery makes for unusual mantelpiece or sideboard décor rather than simply misplaced heads from fabric bodies long since forgotten.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562578440472,"sku":"AGX8","price":165.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image711.jpg?v=1787571831"},{"product_id":"a-good-pair-of-early-20thc-human-prosthetic-glass-eyes-ags23","title":"A Good Pair of Early 20thC Human Prosthetic Glass Eyes","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: British or German\u003cbr\u003ePeriod: Early Twentieth Century\u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003eDate: c.1910-30\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 1.4 inches (each)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eIn original condition and fantastically well made are these genuine human glass prosthetic eyes having superbly detailed hazel coloured iris’s, the wholes in shell like form.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn generally good order, the eyes have no chips or cracks, though one has some small surface wear to the coloured surface.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe introduction of cryolite glass by German craftsmen in 1835 produced a grayish-white color suitable for a prosthetic eye. To make these glass eyes, a tube of glass was heated on one end until the form of a ball was obtained and various colours of glass were then used like paintbrushes to imitate the natural colours of the eye. This glass art form flourished particularly in France and Germany where secrets of production were handed down from one generation to the next. In the 19th century, German craftsmen (or\"ocularists\") began to tour the world, setting up for several days at a time in one city where they fabricated eyes and fitted them to patients. By the mid-1940s, glass eyes were being replaced by plastic counterparts.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA collector’s item for those with an eye for the peculiar. Make that two eyes.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562578473240,"sku":"AGS23","price":99.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image490.jpg?v=1787571832"},{"product_id":"a-good-c-1800-carved-ivory-corpus-christi","title":"A Good c.1800 Carved Ivory Corpus Christi","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: George III \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: 1790-1820\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 16.75 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 7 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepth: 2.5 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe finely carved ivory Corpus Christi attached to an ebonised softwood carved wooden cross beneath an inscribed INRI panel, standing on an unusually shaped scroll carved base survives from the late Georgian period.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis decorative corpus is in fair overall condition. There are some small splits and cracks, with losses to one hand in particular, and there is some minor old woodworm to the crucifix. The ivory displays are very rich and well established patina and the whole certainly is evocative of its vintage. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis carvings detail is of superior quality, the way the ribs are showing and the expression on Jesus' face are both deft and highly skilled.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCross symbols predate Christianity, and ancient objects bearing crosses have been found in most parts of the world and the cross is the most well-known symbol of the Christian faith. It represents the death and resurrection of Jesus and serves as a reminder of our own sins and our need for redemption. The acronym INRI (Iēsus Nazarēnus, Rēx Iūdaeōrum) that we see above the figure represents the Latin inscription which in English reads as \"Jesus the Nazarene, King of the Jews\".\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA good quality early example of a religious objet d'art with a folksy-primitive lilt.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562578669848,"sku":"ivorycorpuschristi","price":440.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image_581f00e8-2475-489f-b4a5-fc471b897e84.jpg?v=1787571840"},{"product_id":"a-good-c-1940s-framed-entomology-collection","title":"A Good c.1940s Framed Entomology Collection","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Mid Twentieth Century \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1930-50\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Case:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 14 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 18 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepth: 2 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe hinged oak collectors case with hanging hook and buff coloured interior housing a collection of predominantly butterflies but also a beetle and two dragonfly specimens, the whole containing thirty nine examples surviving from the mid twentieth century.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe deep oak collectors case is in sound structural order and is hinged for access. One of the hinges has some loss. The specimens themselves are in super order with 95% remaining in tact and pinned, though with the usual amount of loose dust collected in and around the ensemble. Most colours remain vivid and the specimens are stable on their pins.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe examples within the case are nicely varied, from a huge eight-inch wing-spanned Atlas Moth specimen, peacocks and fritillaries to a stag beetle and two dragonfly, with a wide range of distinctive colours and patterns, some rarer than others. Most of the specimens are native to Britain.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe flutter of insect's wings doth cause a decorative stir.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562579128600,"sku":"1940sentomology","price":225.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image_03d8651b-50a7-4440-bbe7-68647de90fb4.jpg?v=1787571860"},{"product_id":"a-good-contemporary-taxidermy-crow-mounted-on-an-edwardian-period-top-hat","title":"A Good Contemporary Taxidermy Crow Mounted on an Edwardian Period Top Hat","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: 21st Century \u0026amp; Edwardian\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: The Mount c.2013, the Hat c.1905\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 15.5 inches (the whole)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLength: 16 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHat Diameter: 11.5 inches (at maximum)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe well-preserved and mounted adult crow specimen perched on a tatty Edwardian period collapsible black silk top hat by Woodrow, 42, Cornhill, London.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eDust of Snow by Robert Frost\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe way a crow\u003cbr\u003eShook down on me\u003cbr\u003eThe dust of snow\u003cbr\u003eFrom a hemlock tree\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHas given my heart\u003cbr\u003eA change of mood\u003cbr\u003eAnd saved some part\u003cbr\u003eOf a day I had rued.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562579161368,"sku":"crowonhat","price":295.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image_423091c4-093b-41c7-9a16-9553be8dab84.jpg?v=1787571861"},{"product_id":"a-good-early-20thc-artist-s-studio-portrait-mannequin-head-of-an-oriental-child","title":"A Good Early 20thC Artist's Studio Portrait Mannequin Head of an Oriental Child","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: British\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Early Twentieth Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1900-25\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 6.5 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 6.5 inches (at extremities)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe life size artists study painted carved wood and gesso mannequin head model of a child with oriental features, hand painted, the whole with blue\/green highlights, realistically rendered, survives from an artist's studio from the first quarter of the twentieth century.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe condition of the head is certainly decorative and remains stable but with a lot of wear and craquelure to the painted surface. The entire surface of the head has differing coloured patches and wears to it making it a very interesting and characterful piece.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHumans are obsessed with self-representation and even though this is an inanimate object it has a tremendous power to attract, and perhaps also repel, like few others.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562579423512,"sku":"childshead1","price":350.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/childheadb3.jpg?v=1787571875"},{"product_id":"a-good-early-20thc-dutch-zoology-department-northern-sumatran-pig-skull","title":"A Good Early 20thC Dutch Zoology Department Northern Sumatran Pig Skull","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: Indonesian\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Early Twentieth Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1918-25\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Skull: 8.25 inches Long X 5.25 inches High\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Base: 8.5 x 5.5 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe early twentieth century Dutch museum or zoology department Northern Sumatran pig skull specimen presented on a later ebonised raised stand with it's original description label hand written in Dutch 'Bataks- Varken' ( Batak pig).. Instituut voor zootechniek en hoefkunde… schiedel van een tam bataks-varken (gesch.d.does).. Veeartsenijkundige Hoogeschool”.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe condition of the whole is good with a well-aged patination and hue making the skull very tactile. The skull is still in two parts, lower and upper, so that it can be picked up and studied properly and each of the teeth are in place.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Austrian veterinary school was from 1820 the first educational institution in the Netherlands where veterinarians were trained. Located in the city of Utrecht gradually got an extensive building complex at the height of the Biltstraat at its disposal. After upgrading to veterinary High School in 1918 (dating this piece to that time) it then became in 1925 the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Utrecht University . In 1988 it moved permanently to the Utrecht subwijk Uithof. Batak is a collective term used to identify a number of ethnic groups predominantly found in North Sumatra, Indonesia.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eVery seldom with any kind of attribution this particular piece of osteology is pleasing and continues to be a fascinating natural history study to this day.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562579521816,"sku":"batakpig","price":290.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image_380259a4-4752-4ae3-b49f-312d2f228ff7.jpg?v=1787571879"},{"product_id":"a-good-early-20thc-ebonised-mystery-barometer-by-short-mason","title":"A Good Early 20thC Ebonised 'Mystery' Barometer by Short \u0026 Mason","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: George V\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1920-25\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 6.25 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBase Diameter: 3.25 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe early twentieth century table-top 'mystery' dial barometer made by Short \u0026amp; Mason, having an attractively shaped ballooned ebonised case with clear glass dial etch marked 'Stormy' through to 'Very Dry' with the makers name under.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe barometer is in good structural aesthetic order with glass having no cracks and only a small amount of tiny fritting and the ebonised finish only with a little wear. The original paper label of instructions is found to the underside of the base. We are unsure if the barometer is working or not but have no reason to believe it isn't. It appears 100% complete.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMystery barometers are named just as mystery clocks are; IE the mystery comes in how these instruments work because the hands don't seem to be connected to any workings. With more conventional instruments, it's easy to see where the hands are attached to the workings that move them, whether powered by a mechanical pendulum or an electric motor. But in mystery clocks and barometers, the hands seem to move with no apparent mechanism to drive them. Turn the item over, examine the back, and you still won't be able to tell what makes it work.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eShort and Mason was established in 1845 by Thomas Short and James Mason in London. The business was located at 40 Hatton Garden, London, and produced precision measuring instruments including barometers, anemometers, and compasses. They became leaders in the field of barograph design. They pioneered the theory that a storm forecast could be made from just observing the air pressure and whether it was rising or falling. Short and Mason obtained a copyright for this forecast in 1921.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTurns out barometers can be beautifully made and beautifully edgy.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562579554584,"sku":"shortandmasonbarometer","price":195.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/mysbarom2.jpg?v=1787571880"},{"product_id":"a-good-early-20thc-mahogany-housed-lepidopterist39s-collection-agv18","title":"A Good Early 20thC Mahogany Housed Lepidopterist's Collection","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: British\u003cbr\u003e Period: Early Twentieth Century \u003cbr\u003e Provenance: J Burnett (?), 136 Renfield Street, Glasgow\u003cbr\u003e Date: c.1910-30\u003cbr\u003e The Mahogany Case:\u003cbr\u003e Height: 5 inches\u003cbr\u003e Width: 24 inches\u003cbr\u003e Depth: 10.5 inches\u003cbr\u003e The Six Individual Cases: 9 inches x 7 inches each\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e The mahogany hinged box opening to reveal six numbered open fronted cases, each white lined with lift out glazed tray lids, housing a total of one hundred and eleven specimens of moths and butterflies. Each tray is marked verso in hand written black ink with a number, and the collectors details; “J Burnett (?), 136 Renfield Street Glasgow”.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Overall condition is good to very good with only around 5% of the specimens having any damage, most of it light whilst the condition of the cases and hinged box are all in sound order with the glazing in tact. There is Scottish newspaper present dated to 1959, used to keep the cases snug in the box. The lid of the box is marked 'James McCosh'.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Two of the six cases are annotated and these examples are marked as; Marbled White, Meadow Brown, Small Tortoiseshell, Pearl Border Fritillary, Lulworth Skipper, Grizzled Skipper, Common Blue, Green Hair Streak , Purple Hair Streak, Clifton Blue, White and Red Admiral, Silver Washed Fritillary, Peacock, Little Blue, Silver Studded Blue, Small Copper, Small Heath, Brown Argus, Chalk Hill Blue, Rhamni Brimstone, Megaera Wall, Semele Grayling, Hyper Anthus Ringlet and Grey Veined White. The other specimens are all without labels but include three atlas moths.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e This is a varied collection, displaying a highly colourful array of specimens in a good mixture of sizes, imploring to be appreciated by a new lepidopterist.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562579620120,"sku":"AGV18","price":290.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/supersize476.jpg?v=1787571883"},{"product_id":"a-good-early-20thc-taxidermy-musk-ox-skull-horns","title":"A Good Early 20thC Taxidermy Musk Ox Skull \u0026 Horns","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: Canadian Arctic\/Greenland\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Early Twentieth Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1900-30\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 8 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 23 inches (at maximum)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe impressive (Ovibos moschatus) musk ox horns arching backward an then curving upward flanking the skull, with the set of teeth still present, the whole presented un-mounted, surviving from the first half of the twentieth century.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe condition of the whole is good and sturdy, and it remains un-dipped and so it beautifully dry and un-meddled with and as one would like it with a good spread of green decay though not too much to become a worry. One of the horns is very slightly looser than the other though this aside there are no other condition issues to report. A handful of the large molar teeth are still present.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe muskox is an Arctic mammal of the family Bovidae, and are truly arctic animals, well-adapted to their extreme environment with a superbly insulated, long, thick coat of dark brown hair and woolly undercoat. They are also noted for the strong odor emitted by males, from which its name derives. This musky odor is used to attract females during mating season. Muskoxen primarily live in the Canadian Arctic and Greenland,with small introduced populations in Sweden, Siberia, Norway, and Alaska. Both male and female muskoxen have long, curved horns. The thick coat and large head suggests a larger animal than the muskox truly is; the bison, to which the muskox is often compared, can weigh up to twice as much. They became extinct across much of their range in Europe and Alaska, largely as a result of over-hunting, but have been successfully reintroduced.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNot a common piece of natural history and a hugely decorative one at that.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562579915032,"sku":"muskox","price":290.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image_f02d8fec-ff4a-4258-911d-16f7379266d7.jpg?v=1787571895"},{"product_id":"a-good-early-20thc-taxidermy-water-buffalo-skull-horns","title":"A Good Early 20thC Taxidermy Water Buffalo Skull \u0026 Horns","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: Asia\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Early Twentieth Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1910-30\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 23 inches (with horns)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 25.5 inches (at maximum)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepth: 7 inches (at maximum)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe impressive female (Bubalus bubalis) water buffalo horns arching backward an then curving upward flanking the skull, with the set of teeth still present, the whole presented un-mounted, surviving from the first half of the twentieth century.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe condition of the whole is good and sturdy, and it remains un-dipped and so it beautifully dry and un-meddled with and as one would like it. One of the horns is very slightly looser than the other though this aside there are no other condition issues to report. The set of teeth are still present, with some movement as to be expected whilst there is a hanging hook for wall mounting.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe water buffalo or domestic Asian water buffalo is a large buffalo found on the Indian subcontinent to Vietnam and Peninsular Malaysia, in Sri Lanka and in Borneo. Water buffaloes are especially suitable for tilling rice fields, and their milk is richer in fat and protein than that of the dairy cow. The large feral population of northern Australia became established in the late 19th century. The horns extend sideways from the skull and curve backwards and then upwards; whilst in Indian buffalo, the horns often curve in a semicircle, while in buffalo from Thailand and Cambodia the horns spread much more to the side with minimal inward curvature at the tips. Horns of males are thicker, but often shorter, than those of females.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eReady-to-go edgy decorative.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562579947800,"sku":"waterbuffalo","price":280.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image_7fc0b98b-3482-4108-981a-7754b560c3a9.jpg?v=1787571897"},{"product_id":"a-glorious-c-1900-french-hand-painted-theatre-canvas-backdrop","title":"A Glorious c.1900 French Hand-Painted Theatre Canvas Backdrop","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: French\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: 3rd Republic \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1890-1910\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 127.5 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 128 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe very large hand-painted theatre canvas backdrop depicting a parted pair of red velvet stage curtains with gold cords and tassels, and strewn flowers amongst the partition, the whole at approximately 10.5 feet square, survives from turn of the century France.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSuspended from a hardwood top rail the painted canvas is in fair to good overall condition, with a few creases here which could be dropped out over time, minor scuffs to the paintwork, and four small tears which do not severely detract from the whole.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBeautifully hand crafted in the late nineteenth to early twentieth centuries, this backdrop would have been an ever present at the start productions, probably used as a staple backdrop for each and every production in the particular theatre. The skill here is of a high level, the curtains have a fluidity and movement to them, they appear luxurious and the light playing on the tassels and the rendering of the partition, particularly the faint flowers seen at the base are all deftly executed.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe major battle of romanticism in France was fought in the theatre. The early years of the century were marked by a revival of classicism and classical-inspired tragedies, often with themes of national sacrifice or patriotic heroism in keeping with the spirit of the Revolution, but the production of Victor Hugo's Hernani in 1830 marked the triumph of the romantic movement on the stage. By the middle of the century, theatre began to reflect more and more a realistic tendency, associated with Naturalism. These tendencies can be seem in the theatrical melodramas of the period and, in an even more lurid and gruesome light, in the Grand Guignol at the end of the century. Also popular were the operettas, farces and comedies of Ludovic Halévy, Henri Meilhac, and, at the turn of the century, Georges Feydeau. Before the war, at the time this backdrop was made, the most successful play was Octave Mirbeau's great comedy Les affaires sont les affaires (Business is business) (1903). The poetry of Baudelaire and much of the literature in the latter half of the century (or \"fin de siècle\") were often characterised as \"decadent\" for their lurid content or moral vision. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA simply spectacular and unique theatrical backdrop, perfect for a large space… let the show commence.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562580799768,"sku":"theatrebackdrop","price":1600.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image_61a7d091-378f-4fed-aadd-4cf19edbda73.jpg?v=1787571932"},{"product_id":"a-glorious-late-19thc-shadow-box-framed-entomology-collection-agk18","title":"A Glorious Late 19thC Shadow Box Framed Entomology Collection","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003cbr\u003ePeriod: Late Nineteenth Century \u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003eDate: c.1880-1900\u003cbr\u003eThe Case:\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 18.5 inches\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 18.5 inches\u003cbr\u003eDepth: 3.5 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe oak shadow box with amber interior and gilt gesso ornate frame, housing a collection of exotic butterflies containing approximately over one hundred and twenty specimens of butterfly, moth and beetle, survives form the late nineteenth century.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe three dimensional case is in sound structural order though the gilt gesso frame has losses. The specimens themselves are in super order with 95% remaining in tact and pinned, though with the usual amount of loose dust in and around the ensemble. The colours remain vivid and verso there is an old hand written label of presumably the first owner of the collection a Ms Charlotte ?? Smith??. There is also some handwritten charcoal script, which is almost completely illegible; we can only make out ‘James’ amongst the other words.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe examples within the case are hugely varied, from a huge eight-inch wing-spanned specimen to tiny pupae and exotic beetle, with a wide range of distinctive colours and patterns. Most of the specimens are not native to Britain.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA hugely decorative and wonderfully well-assembled slice of Victorian natural history preservation.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562580996376,"sku":"AGK18","price":345.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image673.jpg?v=1787571937"},{"product_id":"a-glorious-pair-of-early-19thc-childs-high-top-leather-boots","title":"A Glorious Pair of Early 19thC Childs High-Top Leather Boots","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Regency\/Early Victorian\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1810-40\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLength: 5.75 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 7.75 inches (each)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe high-top leather child's boots in black leather cowhide, the wholes shod with iron and with brass toe-caps, surviving from early nineteenth century England.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe condition of the boots are thoroughly charming with the leather showing signs of obvious wear commensurate with use and age. There are holes present to the uppers where there would have been some kind of buckle or strap attachment. We haven't cleaned or oiled them as they are best preserved and presented as found. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the early 19th century shoes were made with a right foot and a left foot instead of being interchangeable. Men very often wore boots in the 19th century and it became acceptable for women to wear them too. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA child in the early to middle part of the nineteenth century would have been very fortunate to have boots such as these as they were a luxury. Boys and girls wore boots like these in the Victorian era to school and they were expensive and required special care to maintain. In many towns at the end of the 19th century a charity called the Boot Fund was founded to help provide boots and shoes for poor children. This particular pair are of superior quality with the brass toe caps.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIf you have an imagination, then these tell a rather glorious story.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562581061912,"sku":"childsboots","price":290.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image_ca4c2b7c-1bf5-423c-9677-7d9d93d01098.jpg?v=1787571940"},{"product_id":"a-glorious-rare-pair-of-large-mature-mid-20thc-taxidermy-swans","title":"A Glorious Rare Pair of Large Mature Mid 20thC Taxidermy Swans","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Mid-Twentieth Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1940-60\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeights: 45” each\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidths: 19” \u0026amp; 21”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepths: 26” \u0026amp; 34” (all approximately and at extremities)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe rare pair of large opposing mature English Mute Swans (\u003cem\u003eCygnus olor\u003c\/em\u003e) each mounted on a naturalistic setting stump mount surviving from the second quarter of twentieth century England in good overall condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe specimens are presented in very good order considering the relative fragility and age and that these examples are so often found with many feathers missing with a tatty appearance. Here, we see only very minor feather loss to the plumage, some small loss to one of the webbed feet to one example, and a smattering of yellowing to the coats in small areas. One of the specimens has a British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) ring; which is a silver-coloured metal ring fitted around its ankle with the number 'Z96362' and the words 'INFORM BRITISH MUSEUM NAT HIST LONDON, SW7′. This bird had been tagged to track its movements in its life.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Wild Swans at Coole\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eBy William Butler Yeats\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThe trees are in their autumn beauty, \u003cbr\u003eThe woodland paths are dry,\u003cbr\u003eUnder the October twilight the water \u003cbr\u003eMirrors a still sky;\u003cbr\u003eUpon the brimming water among the stones \u003cbr\u003eAre nine and fifty swans.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe nineteenth autumn has come upon me \u003cbr\u003eSince I first made my count;\u003cbr\u003eI saw, before I had well finished,\u003cbr\u003eAll suddenly mount\u003cbr\u003eAnd scatter, wheeling, in great broken rings \u003cbr\u003eUpon their clamorous wings.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eI have looked upon those brilliant creatures, \u003cbr\u003eAnd now my heart is sore.\u003cbr\u003eAll's changed since I, hearing at twilight, \u003cbr\u003eThe first time on this shore,\u003cbr\u003eThe bell-beat of their wings above my head, \u003cbr\u003eTrod with a lighter tread.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUnwearied still, lover by lover,\u003cbr\u003eThey paddle in the cold,\u003cbr\u003eCompanionable streams or climb the air; \u003cbr\u003eTheir hearts have not grown old;\u003cbr\u003ePassion or conquest, wander where they will, \u003cbr\u003eAttend upon them still.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBut now they drift on the still water \u003cbr\u003eMysterious, beautiful;\u003cbr\u003eAmong what rushes will they build,\u003cbr\u003eBy what lake's edge or pool\u003cbr\u003eDelight men's eyes, when I awake some day \u003cbr\u003eTo find they have flown away?","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562581094680,"sku":"pairofswans","price":2800.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/pairofswans2.jpg?v=1787571942"},{"product_id":"a-good-19thc-british-oak-campaign-apothecary-chest-to-include-sixty-seven-bottles-agu23","title":"A Good 19thC British Oak Campaign Apothecary Chest to Include Sixty-Seven Bottles","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003cbr\u003ePeriod: Early \/ Mid Nineteenth Century\u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003eDate: c.1825-45\u003cbr\u003eThe Chest:\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 14 inches\u003cbr\u003eDepth: 10.5 inches\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 8 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOf oblong form with brass campaign handle, the stop-hinged lid opening to reveal a fitted interior with sixty-seven glass bottles of graduating size, some with wood corks, slatted compartments and pigeon holes, the deep lower compartmentalized draw, with brass locking pin containing a further small oak lidded box revealing a set of scales and weights with the other compartments housing ceramic pestle and mortar, glass syringe and measuring beaker. The box also has its original working lock and key.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe condition is good considering the age and the nature of the contents, there is only three bottles lacking, one of the large bottles with missing lid, and a further three or four with minor chips. The dovetail jointed oak has a good patina and a deep rich colour with a few darker patches and stains here and there from the chemicals, with one large stain to the top and a small hairline crack, making for a piece rich in history.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSome of the bottles still contain their original contents* with powders, mixtures and liquids. Notable examples include Tincture of Arnica Poison, Duffy Elixir for Purging, Emetric Tartar for Putric Fever, Dr Boerchaave’s Fever Powder and Holy Water. The various bottle labels show the owner to be well-traveled including examples from J. Severs of 23 Stricklandgate in Kendal, Cumbria, Thomas Capper of 43 Bold Street Liverpool, Herbert Saunders of Coggeshall, Essex and Beck \u0026amp; Son of Stoke Neweington N16 London. As there are no carrying handles to the flanks of the carcass it is possible this chest was carried around in a larger crate (think back of a mule in India) and thus was moved around that way.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOf great interest to those concerned with medicine, campaign furniture, or simply items that tell a story, this is a well-loved compendium of medicinal paraphernalia.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e*Doe \u0026amp; Hope cannot be held accountable for any misuse of the contents within the bottles post sale.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562581455128,"sku":"AGU23","price":490.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image382.jpg?v=1787571955"},{"product_id":"a-good-20thc-male-portrait-mannequin-head","title":"A Good 20thC Male Portrait Mannequin Head","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: British\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Mid\/Late Twentieth Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1960-80\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 10 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCircumference: 22 inches (at temple)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe artists study plaster modelled mannequin head of a young man, hand painted with enamel eyes, realistically rendered eyelashes, dark brown hair and sideburns, having a slightly disturbing comatose or brain-dead like expression with closed mouth and rolled eyes, survives from the mid to late twentieth century.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe condition of the head is good with only marginal wear and markings. There is a hole to plaster neck base and it is signed and numbered '22' and marked 'm24ktgp mid terran'?.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Rape of Lucrece by William Shakespeare (exert)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInto the chamber wickedly he stalks,\u003cbr\u003eAnd gazeth on her yet unstained bed.\u003cbr\u003eThe curtains being close, about he walks,\u003cbr\u003eRolling his greedy eyeballs in his head:\u003cbr\u003eBy their high treason is his heart misled;\u003cbr\u003eWhich gives the watch-word to his hand full soon\u003cbr\u003eTo draw the cloud that hides the silver moon.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562581848344,"sku":"mannequinheadone","price":280.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image_60cf07eb-af2d-4848-819d-edfa72475b24.jpg?v=1787571972"},{"product_id":"a-good-20thc-plaster-death-mask","title":"A Good 20thC Plaster Death Mask","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English or French\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Early\/Mid 20thC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1930-50\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 9.25”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 6” (at extremities)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe life size thick plaster moulded death mask, well cast of a female, having an ochre coloured slip surviving from the first half of the twentieth century and being of English or French origin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn original condition the mask is in very decorative appearance, and it remains in one piece without major damage. It does not suffer from any chips or cracks and as such, thankfully, is presented in superb overall order. The piece has some integral metal work to its reverse for wall mounting.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis well refined and well-cast mask shows a beautiful female, calm and serene, at peace with her memory beautifully upheld.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDeath masks are an impression or cast of the face of a deceased person, usually made by oiling the skin and taking a plaster cast of the features, and are the most haunting mementos of the deceased. They have been in existence since the time of Tutankhamun, whose solid gold burial mask is an object of extreme beauty and superstition. Such masks could be used either in a funerary effigy or as a model for a posthumous portrait. It was important that a death mask was made as soon as possible after death so that the character of the deceased was captured before the features started to fall. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA beautiful legacy.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562581881112,"sku":"ocremask","price":320.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/deathmaskocre2.jpg?v=1787571973"},{"product_id":"a-good-20thc-plaster-death-mask-of-a-bearded-gentleman","title":"A Good 20thC Plaster Death Mask of a Bearded Gentleman","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: Probably English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Mid 20thC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1940-60\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 10.75”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepth: 4”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 5.5” (at extremities)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe life size thick heavy set plaster moulded death mask, well cast of a bearded gentleman, showing him in the serenity of passing, and of slender proportions and clean lines, surviving from the middle of the twentieth century and probably of English origin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn good original condition the mask remains in one piece without damage. It does not suffer from any chips or cracks and as such, thankfully, is presented in very good overall order. There are some light tarnish marks here and there and wear to the extremities.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis well detailed mask shows a bearded gentleman of relatively young age, probably 30-40, of probably rather slender and tall build, his beard quite thick, with some warts showing to his skin. The piece isn't hollowed out to the rear and is narrow and rather long. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDeath masks are an impression or cast of the face of a deceased person, usually made by oiling the skin and taking a plaster cast of the features, and are the most haunting mementos of the deceased. They have been in existence since the time of Tutankhamun, whose solid gold burial mask is an object of extreme beauty and superstition. Such masks could be used either in a funerary effigy or as a model for a posthumous portrait. It was important that a death mask was made as soon as possible after death so that the character of the deceased was captured before the features started to fall. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWe had not come across a death mask of a bearded gentleman before until now; scarce.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562581913880,"sku":"1487a","price":390.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/deathmaskofabeardedgent2.jpg?v=1787571975"},{"product_id":"a-good-20thc-plaster-death-mask-of-a-burly-gentleman","title":"A Good 20thC Plaster Death Mask of a Burly Gentleman","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: Probably English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Mid 20thC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1940-60\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 9.75”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepth: 5.25”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 6” (at extremities)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe life size thick heavy set plaster moulded death mask, well cast of a heavy set gentleman, showing him in the serenity of passing, and of particularly burly proportions with good detailing, surviving from the middle of the twentieth century and probably of English origin.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn good original condition the mask remains in one piece without damage. It does not suffer from any chips or cracks and as such, thankfully, is presented in very good overall order. There are some light tarnish marks here and there and wear to the extremities.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis nicely detailed mask shows a large and burly gent, probably 40-50 years old, most likely fully bald, his ears half cast. The piece isn't hollowed out to the rear so it is substantial and rather heavier than most masks of this type.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDeath masks are an impression or cast of the face of a deceased person, usually made by oiling the skin and taking a plaster cast of the features, and are the most haunting mementos of the deceased. They have been in existence since the time of Tutankhamun, whose solid gold burial mask is an object of extreme beauty and superstition. Such masks could be used either in a funerary effigy or as a model for a posthumous portrait. It was important that a death mask was made as soon as possible after death so that the character of the deceased was captured before the features started to fall. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA large and imposing mask, whose now inanimate gracious features defy his no doubt burly frame.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562581946648,"sku":"1487b","price":440.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/deathmaskofaburlygent2.jpg?v=1787571976"},{"product_id":"a-french-bronze-owl-seal-afe31","title":"A French Bronze Owl Seal","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: France\u003cbr\u003ePeriod: Early Twentieth Century\u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003eDate: c.1915-25 \u003cbr\u003eHeight: 8.5cms\u003cbr\u003eWidth :2.5cms\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn elegant bronze seal in the form of a stylised slender owl rendered in fine detail with accentuated ears and enamelled eyes. The head, chest and back plumage are delicately represented, and the wings attractively swoop towards the stepped plinth base. The matrix carries a letter 'S'. The form of the owl appears to be Art nouveau in style, but perhaps a little more rigid than the sinuous, flowing, naturalistic elements typical of that period.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe angular base is more typical of the Art deco period, which points to a date of creation somewhere between the zeniths of Art deco and Art nouveau. It appears then to be in a slightly transitional style, is beautifully formed, and is a small gem that would appeal to anyone who has an appreciation for small, but perfectly formed, works of art.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562583421208,"sku":"AFE31","price":0.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/super-size-owl.jpg?v=1787571990"},{"product_id":"a-fully-operational-vintage-butcher39s-boys-own39-magic-lantern-complete-with-7-boxes-of-lantern-slides-afl19","title":"A Fully Operational Vintage Butcher's Boys Own\u0026#39; Magic Lantern, Complete With 7 Boxes of Lantern Slides","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003cbr\u003e Period: Early Twentieth Century\u003cbr\u003e Provenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003e Date: c.1910\u003cbr\u003e Height: 9 inches\u003cbr\u003e Length: 19 inches full extended or 12 inches of housing\u003cbr\u003e Depth: 6 inches\u003cbr\u003e Slides: 3.25 x 3.25 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e A green painted tin magic lantern, with large telescopic brass lens, and an attractive logo painted in gilt on the sides. Inside the box is a light bulb and fitting, with a new cord and plug, which has recently been rewired, earthed and checked for electrical safety. A hinged door closes the box, keeping the illumination from the bulb focused at the slide and through the lens. The slides are placed on a wooden rack, which is then slid into the aperture between two lenses, and when the magic lantern is lit the images are beautifully reproduced onto the wall.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Included with the lantern are seven boxes of slides, each containing 8 slides, so there are 56 slides in total. Five of the boxes include magnificent coloured lithographed slides and were produced by Butcher's under the 'Primus' brand forming part of their famous 'Junior Lectures' series: “Jack and the Beanstalk”; “Sweep and the Whitewasher”; “Dick Whittington”; and “Aladdin”. These all come in their original boxes and have accompanying notes to be read to the child whilst the slides are projected. The other three sets of slides are from the 'Rambles Round London Zoological Gardens' series, and comprise: Chapter 7 “Upper Ten”; Chapter 9 “Giants and Dwarves” and Chapter 10 “Special Practitioners”, and also come in their original boxes.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e W. Butcher and Son was first established in 1866 in Blackheath, London, and sold various photographic apparatus, cameras, cinematographs, magic lanterns and articles connected with the animated picture trade. Many of their lantern slides were purchased from German manufacturers and rebranded for sale in England. In 1913 Butcher's started using the 'Primus' trademark, and in January 1915, they combined with Houghtons Ltd. to form the Houghton-Butcher Manufacturing Company. In 1922 they exhibited at the British Industries Fair. \u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e The magic lantern is the forerunner of the slide projector, and it is one of the most popular inventions of the marvellous world of optical illusion, alongside the Camera Obscura, the Magic Mirror, and various other contraptions that have captivated people for centuries. This example is in very good condition, in full working order, and is ready to amaze and delight anyone who should be lucky enough to witness it!\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562585944344,"sku":"AFL19","price":325.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image.jpg?v=1787572014"},{"product_id":"a-fun-20thc-carved-polychrome-wood-model-of-a-fairground-pig-afa6","title":"A Fun 20thC Carved Polychrome Wood Model of a Fairground Pig","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: British\u003cbr\u003ePeriod: Early \/ Mid Twentieth Century\u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003eDate: c.1940-60\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 6.5 inches\u003cbr\u003eLength: 14 inches\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 4 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe fairground pig, standing legs akimbo with attentive ears, protruding tongue and flared snout, painted with polychrome highlights on a burnished gold ground with carousel seat saddle and gold star motifs.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThere is evidence of a small hole drilled to the underside of the base for attachment, and Mr pig is in good condition, one ear has been repaired slightly but he is in fine order throughout otherwise.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis attractive pig was perhaps made as a prototype or apprentice type model for a plus sized carousel model or perhaps he was simply crafted as an endearing nod to fairground art and the fun of the fair.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNicely rendered, this charmingly decorative and enthusiastic looking friend makes good for pocket sized fairground nostalgia.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562585977112,"sku":"AFA6","price":120.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image500.jpg?v=1787572015"},{"product_id":"a-fine-pair-of-early-20thc-giant-clam-shells","title":"A Fine Pair of Early 20thC Giant Clam Shells","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: South Pacific\/Indian Ocean\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Early Twentieth Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1900-30\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAs a Pair: 24” wide x 14” high x 15”deep\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe complete, true pair, of preserved giant clam (Tridacna gigas) shells, of medium size, surviving from the south pacific or Indian oceans from the first half of the twentieth century.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe shells are still beautiful and the wholes are largely in tact and their condition would be described as good. Each shell sits both ways, as it were, stably and doesn't need any kind of support and they do still fit nicely together like a good jigsaw piece. There is one area of loss to one shell with a crack running from that area of loss towards the centre. This does not effect it structurally.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThese bottom-dwelling behemoths are the largest mollusks on Earth, capable of reaching 4 feet (1.2 meters) in length and weighing more than 500 pounds (227 kg). They live in the warm waters of the South Pacific and Indian Oceans. Giant clams achieve their enormous proportions by consuming the sugars and proteins produced by the billions of algae that live in their tissues.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGiant clams have a wildly undeserved reputation as man-eaters, with South Pacific legends describing clams that lie in wait to trap unsuspecting swimmers or swallow them whole. No account of a human death by giant clam has ever been substantiated, and scientists say its adductor muscles, used to close the shell, move far too slowly to take a swimmer by surprise. Even the largest specimen would simply retreat into its shell rather than attempt to sample human prey. T. gigas has four or five vertical folds in its shell as its main characteristic. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe giant clam gets only one chance to find a nice home and once it fastens itself to a spot on a reef, there it sits for the rest of its life. A lucky man is he that gets to rehome a true pair…","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562590236952,"sku":"giant!","price":1450.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/clamshells3.jpg?v=1787572057"},{"product_id":"a-fine-pair-of-large-dome-cased-c-1870s-preserved-acropora-coral-specimens","title":"A Fine Pair of Large Dome Cased c.1870s Preserved Acropora Coral Specimens","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English with the Specimens Indo-Pacific\/Atlantic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Mid\/Late Nineteenth Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1860-80\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDome One: Height: 14.5 inches, Diameter: 13 inches (the base)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDome Two: Height: 13.5 inches, Diameter: 14 inches (the base)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe pair of large and imposing Victorian preserved coral displays, of slightly differing sizes, showing the twig-like tubular appressed clustered Acropora coral specimens populated by an array of seashells, seahorses, dragonflies, butterflies, sea anemone and weeds both beneath their original compressed glass circular domes on circular ebonised plinths.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe glass domes and ebonised wooden bases are in superb order and are original to the coral displays. One stands on bun feet though the other does not. The specimens themselves are in relatively good condition given their brittleness and fragility and age. To each coral section there are the odd tiny parts lacking. Both examples also have one slightly larger piece, which has detached but rests happily in place without any real detriment to their appearance. Overall they couldn't really be expected to be in any better order, the specimens and the domes themselves are of the highest quality at the time.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAcropora is a genus of small polyp stony coral in the Phylum Cnidaria. Some of its species are known as table coral, elkhorn coral and staghorn coral. Acropora displays an amazing array of forms and, with over 135 species, it is the most species rich hard coral genus and it is one of the major reef corals responsible for building the immense calcium carbonate substructure that supports the thin living skin of a reef. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAcropora is most common in shallow reef environments with bright light and moderate to high water motion. Environmental destruction has led to a dwindling of populations of Acropora, along with other coral species. The 3-D structure of this coral provides a rich habitat for a wide range of other reef creatures including crabs, brittle stars and fish which is reflected in their decoration with other specimens. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrom the 149 species of acropora this particular sub -pecies is probably listed CITES, and may require re-export permits. If you are interested and are not in the UK please check domestic legislation and import controls for your region before buying.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDuring the nineteenth century pieces of coral that were too large for the cabinet were sometimes placed under glass domes like this one to enhance their decorative appeal and to prevent them from gathering dust. Sometimes shells and other adornments were added as we see here. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe other specimens that are present here are charming and slightly unusual in that some of them are not species associated with sea life such as a large white butterfly (with some loss to its wings), a dragonfly and several smaller butterflies native to Britain like the peacock. There are several seahorses, which prove charming, and many examples of Victorian seashell finds that litter the bases of the coral specimens. The wholes prove to be a showcase of British natural history with an exotic twist in the form of the coral itself.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLarge for their type, undeniably beautiful and wonderfully interesting.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562590335256,"sku":"pairofcorals","price":1250.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image_87a911eb-6c0b-44e7-be26-bacf9b3e4ed0.jpg?v=1787572060"},{"product_id":"a-fine-pair-of-late-19thc-glass-apothecary-bottles-with-gilt-decoration-afc23","title":"A Fine Pair of Late 19thC Glass Apothecary Bottles with Gilt Decoration","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: Unknown\u003cbr\u003ePeriod: Late Nineteenth Century \u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003eDate: c.1880\u003cbr\u003eCircumference: 13.5 inches\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 10 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHaving good quality spherical glass stoppers over protruding lips and frosted necks, the bodies with lozenge gilt decoration interspersed with leaf and crescent moon and star motifs.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWithout specific labels but ornate decoration, these bottles are hand painted with numbers 29. and 32. respectively to the undersides and stoppers and would have carried a multitude of various medical powders or liquids; then filled into other smaller bottles given to patients.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe gilt decoration is rubbed in parts but there are no cracks, chips or restoration to the bodies or stoppers.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUnusual in terms of decoration, these bottles are extremely decorative and… just a little bit magical.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562590368024,"sku":"AFC23","price":115.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image308.jpg?v=1787572061"},{"product_id":"a-fine-pair-of-silver-mounted-wild-boar-tusks-ceylon-sri-lanka-c1886-aff18","title":"A Fine Pair of Silver Mounted Wild Boar Tusks, Ceylon, Sri Lanka c.1886","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: Sri Lankan\u003cbr\u003ePeriod: Late Nineteenth Century\u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003eDate: c.1886 \u003cbr\u003eWidth: 5 inches\u003cbr\u003eDepth: 4 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe late nineteenth century wild boar (Sus scrofa cristatus) tusks hunted in Ceylon in 1886 and later mounted in the Edwardian period in silver and hallmarked for Horton \u0026amp; Allday, Birmingham in the year 1910.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe inscription to the mount reads BOAR TUSHES CEYLON 1886 H.D.D. TO E.J. XMAS 1910. Clearly presented as a Christmas gift from one person to another these tusks would have been removed from a boar in British Ceylon, the colonial rule of the island nation of Sri Lanka from 1815 to 1948, by the British Empire and were clearly kept by the former owner for the best part of twenty five years before being given as a festive gift, probably to a dear friend (or likely military colleague) rather than a family member.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe tusks have very old splits and one area of loss but remain in solid sound condition with the inscription and hallmarks remaining clear.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHorton \u0026amp; Allday were established in the 1860's by Alfred George Horton and Harry Allday. Alfred Horton died in 1886 and the business was then carried on by Harry Allday alone. Their manufacturing base was at the Warstone Lane factory until 1931 when they moved to 58, Northampton Street, Birmingham. They also had London offices at 6, Arundell Street, Coventry Street, Leicester Square in 1893 and at 47, Poland Street, Soho in 1913.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThese tusks prove to be both a nice memento of British colonial rule and the friendship between two military colleagues, and of natural history curiosity.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562590433560,"sku":"AFF18","price":200.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image538.jpg?v=1787572064"},{"product_id":"a-fine-quality-contemporary-taxidermy-crow-on-ebonised-plinth","title":"A Fine Quality Contemporary Taxidermy Crow on Ebonised Plinth","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: 21st Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.2008\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 24.75 inches (the whole)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBase Diameter: 11 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe stuffed and mounted crow perched on a mossy naturalistic covered post under a Victorian style glass dome, raised on an ebonised plinth socle base, bearing a label inscribed \"Crow Valley Hazelwood 31st December 2008\" is preserved and presented in the highest order.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Raven (exert)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAnd the raven, never flitting, still is sitting, still is sitting\u003cbr\u003eOn the pallid bust of Pallas just above my chamber door;\u003cbr\u003eAnd his eyes have all the seeming of a demon's that is dreaming,\u003cbr\u003eAnd the lamp-light o'er him streaming throws his shadow on the floor;\u003cbr\u003eAnd my soul from out that shadow that lies floating on the floor\u003cbr\u003eShall be lifted - nevermore!\u003cbr\u003e—Edgar Allan Poe\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562590597400,"sku":"crow","price":380.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/IMG_3385.jpg?v=1787572070"},{"product_id":"a-fine-quality-early-20th-cased-ventriloquist-s-dummy-the-davenport-no-2-by-leonard-insull","title":"A Fine Quality Early 20th Cased Ventriloquist's Dummy; 'The Davenport No.2' by Leonard Insull","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Early 20th Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1920-30\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 36 inches (at maximum)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth (Shoulder to Shoulder): 11 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(all approximate)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe large early twentieth century period dummy of high build quality, with seven operating mechanisms in tweed suit with two war medals including the “Defence Medal” with check bow-tie and black leather shoes, the head with short very dark brown hair and the body constructed of a combination of paper maché, and plaster composition parts with lower limbs with fabric attachments with the hands painted in a light skin colour. The face is also in a light skin color with the typical Insull reddened cheeks; the lips are painted red, the moving eyebrows black, the glass eyes hazel. The whole is presented in the original quality tin and iron bound carrying suitcase trunk, in keeping with the period.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn fair overall original condition, there is a crack through the top lip and some other areas of wear. Most of the mechanisms work but because of the complexity of them some are sticking and they could do with some attention. The costume for the dummy is good quality, especially the shoes. The whole of the costume is original and slightly tired but thoroughly charming.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe trunk is of high quality and has several labels to include the stamp of the owner ‘Brigadier T. Young of Singapore’. The dummy has obviously traveled all over the world. There are remnants of shipping labels to each side.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJohn Leonard Insull (born 1883) was Britain's leading and most prolific ventriloquial figure maker of the twentieth century and between 1952 and 1974 he produced no less than 2017 pieces. He spent his early days in Wolverhampton and began his career as an apprentice to a joiner, however he soon developed a taste for magic and decided to go on stage under the name of Hinsle, the Comedy Illusionist. He was often assisted by his wife Gertie Rees, who did a clog dance; and eventually they toured the world together. Leonard Insull worked with his son (also named Leonard Insull) who specialized more in animated slot machines. The collaboration ended with the death of his son in 1957 aged 43.He created many hundreds of items for Davenports magic shop. Noted figures include Lord Charles for Ray Allen and Archie Andrews for Peter Brough which sold for £34,000 in 1999. Leonard Insull died in 1974. Len insull started making dummys in the early 20s for a ventriloquist called Coram the Ventriloquist, he embarked on a venture that would ensure a permanent and illustrious place in the history of ventriloquism. Then after the news of Insull's work reached Lewis Davenport, he asked Insull to supply figures to his magic business. He made two basic heads for Davenports: a No.1 head with three movements: bottom lip, top lip and turning eyes; and a No.2 head with the above plus two winks, moving eyebrows, and ears. This is a no.2 - and the best you will find.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe uncanny nature of ventriloquist’s dummies has enthralled and spooked people for decades, and they continue to feature in horror films to this day. The idea of the ghost in the inanimate object is not a new one, Freud has written at length on the subject in his discussions on the uncanny, and ghost stories have featured dolls and portraits coming to life for centuries. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis rare example, almost certainly crafted by one of the best makers of vent figures the world has ever produced, and with no expense spared in his creation, is a superb fully loaded example for the professional.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562590630168,"sku":"insulldummyno2","price":1250.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/IMG_8990.jpg?v=1787572072"},{"product_id":"a-fine-quality-early-20thc-ventriloquists-dummy-attributed-to-arthur-quisto-afq21","title":"A Fine Quality Early 20thC Ventriloquist's Dummy Attributed to Arthur Quisto","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003cbr\u003e Period: Early 20th Century\u003cbr\u003e Provenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003e Date: c.1905-20\u003cbr\u003e Height: 21 inches\u003cbr\u003e Width (Shoulder to Shoulder): 7.5 inches\u003cbr\u003e Depth: 5 inches (maximum)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e The Edwardian period dummy of high build quality, in a herringbone tweed suit with scarlet bow tie, the head with a thick shock of ginger curly hair and the body constructed of a combination of paper maché, and plaster composition parts with lower limbs with fabric attachments with the wooden carved hands painted in a very light skin colour, the legs consist of black painted wooden shoes. The face is also in a light skin color with reddened cheeks; the lips are painted red, the eyebrows and eyelashes black, the glass eyes blue.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e In superb overall original condition, there is only some small flaking to the paint on the chin. The costume for the dummy is of the highest tailored quality, and in excellent condition. The two buttons on the jacket are original as is the bow tie. The mouth mechanism is in good working order.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Arthur Quisto lived from 1882 to 1960. His real name was Edwin Simms. He was known primarily for his Punch \u0026amp; Judy Shows, but Quisto also built figures for Tom Coram and Arthur Prince. He used pneumatic devices and was the first to use electromagnetic devices to animate his figures.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e The uncanny nature of ventriloquist's dummies has enthralled and spooked people for decades, and they continue to feature in horror films to this day. The idea of the ghost in the inanimate object is not a new one, Freud has written at length on the subject in his discussions on the uncanny, and ghost stories have featured dolls and portraits coming to life for centuries. \u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e Simply a superb example; more than likely from the stable of one of the finest dummy makers that the world has seen.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562590662936,"sku":"AFQ21","price":890.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/IMG_3665.jpg?v=1787572073"},{"product_id":"a-fine-quality-mid-20th-ventriloquists-dummy-attributed-to-leonard-insull-afl21","title":"A Fine Quality Mid 20th Ventriloquist's Dummy Attributed to Leonard Insull","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003cbr\u003e Period: Mid 20th Century\u003cbr\u003e Provenance: Ex John Styles (Magic Circle)\u003cbr\u003e Date: c.1940-60\u003cbr\u003e Height: 45 inches (at maximum)\u003cbr\u003e Width (Shoulder to Shoulder): 13 inches\u003cbr\u003e (all approximate)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e The large mid twentieth century period dummy of high build quality, with fully operating eyes, upper lip and mouth in red jacket and black trousers, white shirt, red and silver tie, check socks and black leather shoes, the head with short mohair chestnut hair and the body constructed of a combination of paper maché, and plaster composition parts with lower limbs with fabric attachments with the hands painted in a light skin colour. The face is also in a light skin color with the typical Insull reddened cheeks; the lips are painted red, the eyebrows and eyelashes black, the glass eyes hazel. \u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e In good to very good overall original condition, there is only some small chipping to the face and wear commensurate with age elsewhere. The costume for the dummy, although not all original, is good quality, especially the shoes, though the jacket is probably a later replacement, it is of the same period and in excellent condition. The three function mechanisms are in good working order. There is a paper sticker inside printed 'John Styles of Sidcup' pointing to the last owner who is a magician and entertainer belonging to the magic circle and International Brotherhood of magicians and is still working today.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e John Leonard Insull (born 1883) was Britain's leading and most prolific ventriloquial figure maker of the twentieth century and between 1952 and 1974 he produced no less than 2017 pieces. He spent his early days in Wolverhampton and began his career as an apprentice to a joiner, however he soon developed a taste for magic and decided to go on stage under the name of Hinsle, the Comedy Illusionist. He was often assisted by his wife Gertie Rees, who did a clog dance; and eventually they toured the world together. Leonard Insull worked with his son (also named Leonard Insull) who specialized more in animated slot machines. The collaboration ended with the death of his son in 1957 aged 43.He created many hundreds of items for Davenports magic shop. Noted figures include Lord Charles for Ray Allen and Archie Andrews for Peter Brough which sold for £34,000 in 1999. Leonard Insull died in 1974.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e The uncanny nature of ventriloquist's dummies has enthralled and spooked people for decades, and they continue to feature in horror films to this day. The idea of the ghost in the inanimate object is not a new one, Freud has written at length on the subject in his discussions on the uncanny, and ghost stories have featured dolls and portraits coming to life for centuries. \u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e This rare example, almost certainly crafted by one of the best makers of vent figures the world has ever produced, and with no expense spared in his creation, is a superb fully loaded example for the professional.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562590761240,"sku":"AFL21","price":1150.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/IMG_4835.jpg?v=1787572077"},{"product_id":"a-fine-set-of-tarot-playing-cards-published-by-baptiste-paul-grimaud-paris-tarot-allemand-2-ttes-chinois-af122","title":"A Fine Set of Tarot Playing Cards Published by Baptiste Paul Grimaud, Paris; 'Tarot Allemand' à 2 têtes Chinois","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: French\u003cbr\u003ePeriod: Late Nineteenth Century\u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003eDate: c.1890\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 10.5 cms\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 5.5 cms\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eComprising a complete deck of seventy-eight cards of which twenty-two are Major Arcana, French Republic tax stamped to April 1890, together as originally sold with the original printed-paper wrapper.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe double ended and rounded edged cards have a sea monster and Chinoiserie theme and rather hypnotic card backs, of geometric pattern, showing a depth and simplicity of design. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe condition the thick card stock is still in good order, the whole deck without tears and the gilt edging to the corners still lustrous. The wrapper is in fair condition, the deck costing one franc twenty five cents back in September of 1890. A good survival.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOriginating with A. Lefer, Cartier Paris, who published this particular game in the early 19th century, this deck was made for the large German community in Paris at the time and a copy, signed Lefer, is the museum of Rouen. In 1872 the Parisian cardmaker Lecquart \u0026amp; Mignot acquired the manufacturing of the game before later selling it to Baptiste Paul Grimaud (1817-1899). B.P. Grimaud was the founder of the famous Grimaud house that would print the successful Ancien Tarot de Marseille.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTarot itself was originally a card game from fifteenth century Italy, although much of the groundwork for today's tarot lore was established in the late-1700s, and the only part that became popular during the subsequent century was fortune-telling. Before the more elaborate myths and esoteric systems could become popular, occult Tarot had to be invented a second time. This happened in the mid-19th century, at the beginning of the Victorian occult revival, and by the end of the century both French and British occultists had developed various schools, which took the 15th-century game to be key to occult science. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFrance has issued a great number of fortune-telling packs, and these are usually identifiable by the language of the inscriptions and the presence of a miniature standard card in the corner of the design. During the nineteenth century various types of fortune-telling, oracle, Lenormand, sybil and destiny cards became popular. Many decks such as this one were published in Paris though the game of tarot was not widely accepted in England until the 1870s when a number of English occultists had begun taking an interest in the tarot.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhether intending to read the tarot or to simply frame and admire, this is a super antique deck, found in fine fettle.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562591219992,"sku":"AF122","price":290.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/supersize439.jpg?v=1787572093"},{"product_id":"a-fine-trio-of-c-1890-taxidermy-terrapins","title":"A Fine Trio of c.1890 Taxidermy Terrapins","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: Asian\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Late Nineteenth Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1890-1900\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGraduating Lengths: 8 inches, 6.75 inches, 5.5 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePresenting a fine trio of graduating terrapins, mother, father and son, shown in the midst of an advance toward a generously filled ceramic basin full of lettuce leaves, survive from the late Victorian period.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eReasons for families of three:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e1) An awful lot of fairy tales and songs focus on groups of three, for example; Three Blind Mice, Three Little Pigs and Three Billy Goats Gruff. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e2) A family of three slips pretty unnoticed through the world. If you have two or more, you have a brood, with its attendant noise and unpredictability. Three means they are not afraid to go to restaurants, or the library, or movies.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e3) Listening to the song “Three is a Magic Number” invariably makes the custodian of this trio cry when they get to the part “A man and a woman had a little baby…yes, they did…there were three in the family…and that's a magic number.”.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e4) They look super on mantelpiece, shelf or a chest.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eImportant, that last point. This is one happy family.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562591252760,"sku":"terrapins","price":395.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/supersize1_68bb53f3-7611-4454-baef-008f966cb6df.jpg?v=1787572094"},{"product_id":"a-fine-trio-of-early-20thc-lepidopterist-cases-af318","title":"A Fine Trio of Early 20thC Lepidopterist Cases","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: British\u003cbr\u003ePeriod: Early Twentieth Century \u003cbr\u003eProvenance: J Burnett (?), 136 Renfield Street Glasgow\u003cbr\u003eDate: c.1910-30\u003cbr\u003eThe Cases: 9 x 7 inches each\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe three numbered open fronted cases, each white lined with lift out glazed tray lids, housing a total of eleven early twentieth century specimens of moths and caterpillars.  Each tray is marked verso in hand written black ink with a number, and the collectors details; “J Burnett (?), 136 Renfield Street Glasgow”.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOverall condition is very good with the specimens in fine order throughout whilst the condition of the cases and hinged box are all in sound order with the glazing in tact.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOne case bears four good examples of Atlas moths, with the other two showing a good variant of caterpillars, which are, rare to find from the early twentieth century. Once case has annotations reading “L.Quercus ( the Oak Eggar) Feeds on bramble, hawthorn, dogwood, and various low plants. Best looked for June - July” and the next reading “S. Pavonia, (The Emperor) Feeds on heather, slow bramble, sallow. Best looked for June, July, August”.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA good trio of cases, well displayed, and retaining good vivid colouring.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562591285528,"sku":"AF318","price":97.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image371.jpg?v=1787572095"},{"product_id":"a-fine-victorian-taxidermy-bluebird-under-a-circular-glass-dome","title":"A Fine Victorian Taxidermy Bluebird Under a Circular Glass Dome","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Late Nineteenth Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1880\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Dome:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 12 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBase Diameter: 5 inches\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe domed glass case on a turned ebonised base housing a preserved bluebird stood upon a naturalistic setting of ferns and grasses, survives from the late nineteenth century in good condition.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eThere's a bluebird in my heart that wants to get out but I'm too tough for him,\u003cbr\u003eI say, stay in there, I'm not going to let anybody see you.\u003cbr\u003eThere's a bluebird in my heart that wants to get out but I pour whiskey on him and inhale cigarette smoke and the whores and the bartenders and the grocery clerks never know that he's in there.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThere's a bluebird in my heart that wants to get out but I'm too tough for him,\u003cbr\u003eI say, stay down, do you want to mess me up? you want to screw up the works? you want to blow my book sales in Europe?\u003cbr\u003eThere's a bluebird in my heart that wants to get out\u003cbr\u003ebut I'm too clever, I only let him out at night sometimes\u003cbr\u003ewhen everybody's asleep. I say, I know that you're there,\u003cbr\u003eso don't be sad. then I put him back,\u003cbr\u003ebut he's singing a little in there, I haven't quite let him die\u003cbr\u003eand we sleep together like that with our\u003cbr\u003esecret pact and it's nice enough to make a man weep, but I don't weep, do\u003cbr\u003eyou?\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eBluebird by Charles Bukowski\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBluebirds are associated with hope, happiness and many other things we love. As a result, they have probably appeared in more songs, poems and literature than any other bird. What better way to preserve these values than with a preserved bluebird?\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562591351064,"sku":"bluebird","price":220.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/IMG_8479.jpg?v=1787572098"},{"product_id":"a-fine-vintage-taxidermy-fallow-deer-buck-head-mount-on-hardwood-shield-af718","title":"A Fine Vintage Taxidermy Fallow Deer Buck Head Mount on Hardwood Shield","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003cbr\u003ePeriod: Early\/Mid Twentieth Century\u003cbr\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003cbr\u003eDate: c.1940-60 \u003cbr\u003eWidth: 26 inches (with antlers)\u003cbr\u003eDepth: 15.5 inches (at maximum)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThroughout his life, Hardy was known as ‘the quiet one’, a wonderful specimen, he remains in fantastic overall condition. Hardy was mounted on a hardwood shield in the middle of the twentieth century when he perished due to natural causes; the only areas of loss now, are to the very tips of the ears.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFor Hardy, everybody, and everything were too loud for him. Thus, his best friend was his pet spider Harry who lived on his back. Hardy liked having Harry around as they didn’t speak the same language so they didn’t need to talk. They just had each others mutual respect. They lived a long and happy existence together, just plodding along, not wanting the daily trappings of a complicated life.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHardy was a handsome chap, now a handsome antique, and is still as quiet as he was. We can’t find Harry, but he may well be buried inside one of Hardy’s ears.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":52562591416600,"sku":"AF718","price":260.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/supersize509.jpg?v=1787572100"},{"product_id":"a-fine-c-1880-carved-bone-scrimshaw-sailors-dice-holder-dice","title":"A Fine c.1880 Carved Bone Scrimshaw Sailors Dice Holder \u0026 Dice","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Late Nineteenth Century\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1875-1900\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 1.5 inches square\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe beautiful bone dice holder modelled as a dice with scrimshaw carved playing card decoration, sliding cover to reveal compartment containing six bone dice, the side decoration to include the Queen of spades, King of spades and Jack of spades survives from the last quarter of the nineteenth century.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAttractively designed and wonderfully tactile, the condition of this well proportioned example is excellent with no cracks or chips to the bone and the slide off cover is fully operational. The whole could be cleaned if so desired but we prefer to leave it as is.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWe have found one dice box similar to this selling in 2012 though that did not have the maritime theme that we have here, rather just the simple playing card faces. This style of artwork is similar to items presented to young ladies by their sweethearts, often given as a love token and created on New England whaling ships. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis gaming aid would have been used in taverns in the late nineteenth century and possibly on ships of the same period, hence the maritime theme. Dice appears to be among the earliest pieces of specialized gaming equipment used by humans, having been used throughout Asia since before recorded history, the oldest known examples being a 3000-year-old set unearthed at an archaeological site in southeastern Iran. Notable dice games have included Hazard, a game popular in Europe from the 14th through the 18th centuries, Chuck-a-luck, a related game also known as birdcage and Craps, which replaced Hazard in popularity during the 19th century and which would have no doubt been the game of choice when using this particular set of dice.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOnce you've picked this up it's incredibly hard to put down again. Snake eyes.","brand":"Archive","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52562592203032,"sku":"bonedicebox","price":265.0,"currency_code":"AUD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1000\/5800\/5784\/files\/main-image_84691b7c-576e-4723-90fc-4f6b97430ed4.jpg?v=1787572123"}],"url":"https:\/\/doeandhope.shop\/collections\/curios.oembed","provider":"doeandhope.shop","version":"1.0","type":"link"}