IMPASSIONED ARTIST BEAT THE ODDS
Q I inherited this picture by Aimée Rapin (painted with her foot as she was born without arms). I've always been intrigued by this painting.
Her signature is followed by `Genève, 1912.' It measures approximately 61 x 91 cm (24 x 36 inches). Any information on this would be appreciated. Thanks.
Kaye, Kanata
A Aimée Rapin, (1869-1956) born in Payerne, Switzerland, led an amazing life. Throughout her life she was independent and happy and with great support from her parents and extended family she started the journey of her passion and career with art lessons at six years old. She also produced landscapes and sculpture but she excelled with portraits and won many awards. Her works were exhibited on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean in the major cities of Paris, London, Berlin, New York and Montreal. This still-life painting, done with pastel, has great interest with a spread and basket of fruit, a copper pot and tablecloth. The glistening grape bunches are captivating. This is quite a large piece and its efficacy is a testament to her talent and spirit — she was an optimist and had a terrific sense of humour. This grand work of art is worth $1,500.
Q I have this small curious metal piece that I acquired at a friend's home sale recently in Russell, Ont. I happily paid $2 for the item because I was down for it and my friends were moving to seniors living. Hence it makes a nice memory of our friendship. It is a wee bird figurine 10 cm long (4 inches) which I suspect is a cooking aid. Thanking you in advance for your consideration.
Marilyn, Ottawa
A There's nothing like a songbird to cheer a person up. This clever bird can put the squeeze on a lemon or lime wedge. These came in sets of eight or 12 for individual place settings. A few retailers, such as Norpro or Cuisinox, offer them still and delivery was offered by Amazon! The original design, a higher-quality production made by the Napier company, in Germany was patented by inventor Adolf Wagner in Mussbach, Germany during April 1934. He called it a “portable lemon slice squeezer for table use.” Two years later it was also patented in the United States. This higher-quality version, singly brings $50. I suspect yours is what's termed a knockoff — from the 1970s or later — which is a compliment to the original inventor and evidence of a desirable item. Its average selling price is $13.
Q I have always been interested in local residential heritage buildings and 40 years ago, I purchased this early architectural model house from a local auction for $325. From information provided, I learned it was made circa 1880 by a craftsman, J.S. Sauvé, as a model for a house he subsequently built in Portage-du-Fort, Que. He lived there until his death in 1930. The model was stored in his son's Ottawa home until his death in 1979. The model is in good condition and has the appearance of a Victorian doll house, although the interior is unfinished. All dimensions are approximately 91 cm (36 inches) and it weighs about 18 kg (40 pounds). The front door opens and the windows have glass and shades. The roof is metal and the chimneys are wood with painted bricks. Our downsize to a condo no longer allows room for my architectural “folly” (as my wife calls it). I welcome your assistance in establishing a value. Thank you.
Glen, Ottawa
A You did have a folly (also defined as “a costly ornamental building”) when purchased. But now — NOT! I have not seen a 19th century example to know it and they are rare, especially with the provenance you have. Even though many dollhouses did mock real homes, practicality for use is lacking for play or adult bibelots. Similar to model ships, value is dictated on the quality of workmanship and details, which are superb here with the spindled wraparound porch. Barkers at auction will ask for $1,500 to start. When the gavel sounds is anyone's guess.
John Sewell is an antiques and fine art appraiser. To submit an item to his column, go to the `Contact John' page at www. johnsewellantiques.ca. Please measure your piece, say when and how you got it, what you paid and list any identifying marks. A high-resolution jpeg photo must also be included. (Only email submissions accepted.)
* Appraisal values are estimates only.*