THIS OLD THING
THIS OLD THING
Q. I just purchased a Lefaucheux-type 7 mm calibre pin fire 1860 pocket model. It’s engraved and has silver and gold inlay on the barrel, cylinder and other parts of the frame. I was told it was French and the age could be around the time of the American Civil War. It came with a fitted case containing a screwdriver and a barrel-cleaning tool. If you can help me with the value, I would appreciate it. — Sergio, Toronto
A. An American friend with more than 35 years of experience as a firearm collector confirmed that your pistol is styled after the 1850s design of Parisian gunsmith Eugène Lefaucheux. It was made in France and Belgium during the 1860s or early 1870s for military and civilian use. These pistols, popular in Europe, were designed to use pin fire cartridges and were utilized by both sides during the American Civil War. Its folding trigger eliminated the need for a trigger guard, making it conveniently more compact. Eugène’s father, Casimir, was a gun- smith who invented the pin fire cartridge. Upon his father’s death in the 1840s, Eugène took over the business and made a name for himself. Plain versions of this gun are fairly common but yours is rarer as it is highly embellished with floral engraving, gold-wire inlay and carved grips. This was likely a special order at a significantly higher cost. Pin fire cartridges became obsolete before the end of the 1800s and, generally, this makes pin fire guns less desirable today. But the large amount of embellishment makes this a ‘pièce de résistance.’ It’s worth close to $2,000.
Q. This quilt came from my father’s aunt, who lived in New York state. I really like the design but don’t know what to call it. There are some signs of wear but it is in pretty fine shape with only a small tear or two on applied pieces. The dimensions are 203 by 229 centimetres (80 by 90 inches). I’m wondering if it’s not a good idea to use it in case it is a priceless treasure. What can you tell me about it? — Emma, Acton
A. Quilts are wonderful works of art. This vivid red and green appliqué pattern could be called ‘tulip and heart wreath with swag border.’ Tulips, a favourite motif, and the swag border have been used at least since 1850 and I’m estimating a date of between 1900 and 1930 for this wonderful example. The quilting is quite fine and appears to be largely hand done. Earlier examples would have even more detailed quilting on the white background. The quilt market, for collectors, is much quieter than in the late 1990s. But this striking example will still catch much attention and fetch, in the right competitive setting, $275.
Q. I bought this cute creamer in a bunch of things on a tray lot at an auction recently. It has two children playing cricket and a verse printed on the backside reading ‘is Tom’s and Harry’s fondest dream to be in their school cricket team.’ It is ‘Fine Bone China’ made by ‘Paragon’ in England. There’s also the name of ‘Beatrice Mallet’ under the handle and print on the bottom stating it’s part of a series. It’s about 7.5 centimetres high (3 inches). I find it intriguing and wonder what story it has to tell. — JL, Rockwood
A. This fascinating piece was actually made by Star China Co. (1900-1920) — the forerunner of Paragon China Company (distinguished in the mark by the star above the word ‘Paragon’). It was made circa 1913 to
1920. Beatrice Mallet, née Fox (1896-1951), was a talented English illustrator who began her career in France after marrying Parisian illustrator Hervé Mallet in 1919. Her sporting series, along with rhymes which you have a part of, included golf, tennis, hunting and car racing. They are found on children’s dishes including baby bowls, plates, cups and saucers and rarely complete tea sets. She continued into the 1930s under the new Paragon umbrella. Her work included graphics for both French and English postcards, books and advertisements for children’s clothing. A similar piece to yours might be priced at $200.