HIGH ONLINE PRICES CAN BE MISLEADING
Q I would like to know the approximate age and value of these ceramic perfume bottles. I found them a few years ago at a large antique/vintage shop in Port Hope, Ont. They're around 14.5 high with the stoppers, 10 wide and 7.5 cm deep (5.75 x 4 x 3 inches). I found a similar pair on 1stdibs that are described as Paris porcelain circa 1860 and priced at $6,000. Thank you for your help!
Nichola, Port Hope, Ont.
A You have a rare pair of stoppered cologne bottles that are a treat to see. The rectangular shape with chamfered corners seems to be most often associated with French productions
— a few marked examples with `France' or `Limoges' do show up infrequently. All the decoration is done by hand and, the stoppers each with a different Moorish scene are most unusual. Paris porcelain can date widely through the 19th century but these do likely date within 10 years of 1860. One must find a few sold examples to establish a reliable pattern for value. Extreme asking prices are untenable. This pair is certainly wonderful and together they will carry aromas worth $450.
Q I found this in my stash and thought I should check before I send it off to “who knows where.” The box measures about 18 x 19 x 10 cm (7 x 7.5 x 4 inches). The machine is 18 cm high (7 inches). Thanks.
Pat, Waterloo, Ont.
A You have a very nice
Sewhandy Machine Model 20 made by the famous Singer Manufacturing Co. in the U.S.A. It appeared originally in 1910 but was made with slight variations — yours possibly in the 1950s — and continued into the 1970s. It started being sold as a toy but later on was touted as a travel model. Often the boxes, like yours and manuals are the scarcer items to have. These are popular and it will stitch up $250 today.
Q These two porcelain figurines were inherited by us from an aunt in the Netherlands in the 1980s. They are approximately 15 cm tall (6 inches). The lady has had her head re-glued, but it's not very noticeable. They are hollow inside and have the number 4218 printed on the back. An estimate as to their value would be appreciated. Thanks,
John, Sebringville, Ont.
A You have a rare pair of bisque figurines that date to circa 1900 when there was a great market demand for them. Bisque porcelain has a matte glaze and they are actually a cross between porcelain and pottery. The number indicates the company model code. These took more work to produce since the figures were moulded separately and then placed in the chairs. The finely made roses are also `extras' that are not often seen. These are most likely a German company. Even though `she' has been damaged it is golden to have them remain as a pair. Bisque is not selling well presently but I would still value this handsome pair at $125 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.*