The Face in the Cameo

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158. 19th Century Birdseye Maple Desk Accessory 6 ½” (17 cm.) Of birdseye maple, the small box is decorated with silver edging and mother-of-pearl bands which are decorated with unusual symbolic figures of piglets, daisies, flowers and a horseshoe; a hinged lid box with built-in inkwell rests on box top and there are two hidden drawers at the sides; included is a miniature ink blotter and magnifying glass. Excellent condition. Late 1800s. $400/500

159. Outstanding 18th Century Venetian Court Doll in Superb Historical Costume 22” (56 cm.) Carved wooden swivel head with flat-cut neck, angular facial shape with strongly defined features, hazel glass inset eyes, richly blushed eye shadow, aquiline nose with shaded nostrils, closed mouth, accent line between the lips, dimple in chin, blushed cheeks, defined ears, sheepskin wig, carved wooden torso, defined waist and rounded hips, iron pin jointing of hips, knees and ankles, cloth upper arms with carved wooden hands and well-defined fingers. Condition: generally excellent. Comments: Venetian court doll, circa 1780, in superb costume of lavish fabrics and trims, inspired by the Pietro Langhi painting of lady in festival costume. Value Points: extremely rare doll with superbly carved face and hands, original sturdy body, superb costume of silk damask open robe, silk faille cape, undergarments, stockings with knee garters, fine brocade heeled shoes, elaborate jewelry, and with Venetian costume ball accessories including black domino and Bauta masks made from stiffened linen, black lace and silk cape and pressed wool felt tricorn hat. Ex-collection Estelle Johnston. $8000/11,000 157.

157. Collection of Five Viennese Dance Cards 3” (8 cm.) -4”. Known as dance cards, the miniature programs of Viennese evening parties took the form of books, plaques and other figural designs, and were designed not only for use during the evening, but as memories after the event. Gala organizers competed to design the most unusual and elegant. Included here are an unusual fencing swords and mask dance card, another with Dresden flower and ormolu bow clasp, and others. Excellent condition. Vienna, late 1800s. $400/500

158.

159. Accessories

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