SILVER BOWL HOLDS A BUSHEL OF VALUE
Q I am hoping the Latin inscription on this silver bowl can be read and translated. The dimensions of the bowl are 12.5 cm wide, including the handles, and six cm high (4.9 x 2.3 inches). The family had a fun time at Thanksgiving trying to interpret the words and is all “agog” awaiting your comments! Thank you.
Valerie, Waterloo, Ont.
A Your rare and desirable sterling silver bowl is a miniature 20th century version of an actual bushel measure of volume from the 15th century. Under the reign of King Henry VII it became official in the city of Winchester. It was assayed in London, England and was made by the firm of Frederick James Ross & Sons of High Street, Winchester, England in 1926. The Latin translates to `Henry VII by the Grace of God King of England and France.' The hammered finish is an Arts and Crafts movement taste — one that promoted hand work over commercial production. This historically filled bowl will easily fetch $1,250.
Q This interesting menu was a keepsake of my mother's. She travelled from Montreal to Liverpool on the `RMS Andania' with her family when she was six years old in 1936. It is from that voyage. As part of the Royal Navy, during the Second World War, the Andania was torpedoed by a German submarine off the coast of Iceland in 1940. I think the pastel drawing is lovely and whimsical. It is 25 x 20 cm (10 x 8 inches). I'd be interested to know if it has any value or interest beyond sentimental. Thanks.
Leslie, Wakefield, Que.
A The historical value and your story make this paper ephemera very interesting for collectors. I believe what you have is a printed menu with hand embellishments. It displays elements of pen and ink and watercolour. The artist's signature is likely that of Pittenweem, Scotland native, Arthur Macdonald who flourished from 1895 to 1940 and was known for seascapes, coastal scenes and children. Nautical items — particularly of steamships and ocean liners are of great interest today. There is also much terrific info for `Foodies' to digest. Paper items seldom survive over time making them quite rare. It is well worth $75.
Q My mother was given a corner chair from her friend who passed away at the age of 100. We did some research online and found a similar chair described as a “North Italian Victorian Baroque Corner Chair.” It is in excellent condition. It stands 79 cm high and the seat is 61 cm wide (31 x 24 inches). Could you provide us with more information about it. Thank you.
Adelle, Ottawa
A Corner chairs are rare and they are often quite interesting, as is yours. With cabinetmakers moving around to follow `the market demand' it was natural for styles to be shared among countries — particularly in Europe. Each workshop strived to invent their own designs while maintaining motifs from earlier times. Classical motifs of your chair are the turnings with acanthus leaves, the cherub head bordered by fruit, the carved apron with scrolls and the foliage scroll of the back rail. The design of the arm supports with bird heads and wings was actually used by the Romans. The flowers capping the arms are roundels — an idea used commonly in the 1860s — the likely date of your chair making. I would argue for French Renaissance influence with specific credit, circa 1560 to Jacques Androuet du Cerceau of Paris. Your walnut chair has a good old finish. Furniture is not easily sold for fitting prices today. However, this high quality piece should carry a value of $650 today.
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.*