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Tag Archives: Birmingham
Life and Work
Charles William Dyson Perrins (1864 – 1958) was the grandson of William Perrins, the co-originator of Lea & Perrins sauce. After his father, James Dyson Perrins, passed away, Charles William Dyson Perrins inherited the Worcestershire sauce factory. Despite the long-continued popularity, this is not where Perrins found his fame. Instead, he is best known for his philanthropy and love of pottery.
Perrins lived in Worcestershire for most of his life and was particularly engaged in local charity. Among many things, he was a primary benefactor of the Royal Grammar School, where he also funded the construction of new buildings. At Oxford University, he also funded the building of the Dyson Perrins Laboratory which became the main research centre into organic chemistry between 1916 and 2003.
In 1934 Perrins bought the Royal Worcester Porcelain Factory, funding it from his pocket to save it from bankruptcy, and in 1946 he established the Perrins Trust to ensure its survival. This eventually became the Museum of Royal Worcester which, to this day, holds the largest collection of Worcester porcelain in the world.
Throughout his life, he amassed a huge collection of books. After he passed, his collection was distributed through auctions and museums across the country. His collection is considered one of the most important collections of books in the world with a particular focus on illuminated manuscripts. Today, items that once belonged to him are housed at historic institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum, the British Museum and Library, the National Gallery, and the Ashmolean Museum.
Charles William Dyson Perrins at High Park
However, the mystery remained of how this portrait of him ended up in the collection of the late owner of High Park. We know that Charles William Dyson Perrins never lived at High Park himself, but after some digging it was revealed that his son – Charles Francis Dyson Perrins, did. He lived at High Park between 1921 and 1940 before joining the military and serving in WWII. Not only that, but he also held the title of Lord of the Manor. It is believed that when the late owner purchased the house at auction in 1977, they purchased the portrait around the same time.
Charles William Dyson Perrins Portrait at Auction
Perrins had an undeniably interesting life and left an indelible mark in the cultural history of the West Midlands. Worcestershire, despite being a relatively small county in the UK, is now internationally famous for two things – Lea & Perrins sauce, and Worcester pottery. Charles William Dyson Perrins can be credited with having an instrumental role in the global reputation of both these things. His legacy is nothing short of impressive.
It was a real treasure to uncover a portrait with such an interesting story to tell. The portrait is signed M. L. Walle(n/r), who we believe to be Mary Lemon Waller. Charles Dyson Perrins was painted by Mary Lemon Waller in 1901, the portrait of him and his wife was offered in Christie’s 28th July 2009 sale, lot 251.
Lot 150
M. L Waller portrait of Charles Dyson Perrins
Price Realised: £3,055.00
A Country House Auction | Tuesday 5th March 2024
Viewing times (ID required):
Birmingham
Friday 1st March 10:00-16:00
Monday 4th March 10:00-16:00
Tuesday 5th March 8:30-10:00
Virtual viewings are available by request. Virtual viewings are the ultimate personal shopping experience. Using Zoom, you can ask us whatever you need to know in order to buy with confidence. Find out more here.
Valuations
Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction.
The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Virtual valuation appointments are also available.
Find what you’re looking for
Make sure you don’t miss finding that special something by signing up to our email alerts. You’ll be the first to know when catalogues become available, receive invitations to special events and preview the hottest lots from our auctions, plus much more.
Why not use our free personal shopping service? Sign up for lot alerts and tell us exactly what you are looking for. Each time we upload a catalogue, we search for your keywords and email you lots matching your interests. Your personalised email will include images, lot descriptions and auction details.
Cordelia Porter | Research Coordinator
Posted in Antiques
Tagged antiques, auction, auctioneers, auctions, Birmingham, country house, Fellows, fellowsauctioneers, high park, Jewellery, lea & perrins, watch, watches, worcester, Worcester pottery, Worcestershire
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The Land and Estate 800 – 1700
Despite being a relatively small parish, Salwarpe has a surprisingly interesting history.
Long before High Park was built, the land, the park, and the estate passed through many hands and many important families. The earliest reference to Salwarpe that we could find dates to 817 when it was given to Denebernt, Bishop of Worcester, by Coenwulf, King of the Mercians.
From there, the land was passed through many hands including D’Abitot, Roger de Montgomery, and William de Beauchamp, before being passed to Henry VII in 1487. In 1501 the land and estate were given to Katherine of Aragon for her marriage to Prince Arthur.
She held it until her death whereupon it was bought by John Talbot in 1546. From then on, Salwarpe, the land and estate became the historic seat of the Talbot family.
High Park 1700 – 1940
In 1738 Philip Gresley bought the land from the Talbots. It is believed that he built High Park, as a datestone on the house reads: “Gresley 1793”. Philip Gresley was the first person to live at High Park, and the first person to associate the title Lord of the Manor with the estate. After Gresley passed, he bequeathed the estate to Robert Archibald Douglas who took the name Gresely.
High Park then stayed with the Douglas family until the Hingley family bought it in c1898. Lucy Hingley, who lived at the house, had a profound presence within the community as the founder of the Women’s Institutes Salwarpe branch. In 2021, the members of Salwarpes WI’s worked together to help clear Lucy’s family grave, preserving her memory. In 1921, the Hingley family sold High Park which was bought by the Dyson Perrins family, who lived there until the start of WWII.
High Park: A Country House Auction
In 1977 High Park was sold at auction and was purchased by the late owner, who left behind a substantial collection of items. As a lover of antiques, the owner left a carefully curated and fascinating body of objects and art. These objects now form the majority of our upcoming Country House auction.
Lot 156
Victorian portrait of a lady in Spanish dress
Price Realised: £455.00
Lot 320
Georgian Japanned secretaire cabinet
Price Realised: £5,330.00
Lot 316
Mid 20th century croquet set
Price Realised: £312.00
Lot 155
Countess of Northampton oil on canvas after Sir Peter Lely
Price Realised: £1,690.00
Lot 6
Pair of Berlin (KPM) sweetmeat figures
Price Realised: £182.00
Lot 75
Pair of alabaster and gilt metal candelabra and similar table lamp
Price Realised: £169.00
Lot 226
19th century repeater carriage clock with enamel back plate
Price Realised: £429.00
A Country House Auction | Tuesday 5th March 2024
Viewing times (ID required):
Birmingham
Friday 1st March 10:00-16:00
Monday 4th March 10:00-16:00
Tuesday 5th March 8:30-10:00
Virtual viewings are available by request. Virtual viewings are the ultimate personal shopping experience. Using Zoom, you can ask us whatever you need to know in order to buy with confidence. Find out more here.
Valuations
Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction.
The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Virtual valuation appointments are also available.
Find what you’re looking for
Make sure you don’t miss finding that special something by signing up to our email alerts. You’ll be the first to know when catalogues become available, receive invitations to special events and preview the hottest lots from our auctions, plus much more.
Why not use our free personal shopping service? Sign up for lot alerts and tell us exactly what you are looking for. Each time we upload a catalogue, we search for your keywords and email you lots matching your interests. Your personalised email will include images, lot descriptions and auction details.
Cordelia Porter | Research Coordinator
Posted in Antiques
Tagged antiques, auction, auctioneers, auctions, Birmingham, country estate, country house, estate auction, Fellows, fellowsauctioneers, high park, Jewellery
Comments Off on High Park History: A Country House Auction
Cementing its place as one of fashion’s most enduring and iconic designs is the Louis Vuitton trunk. Instantly recognisable and eternally chic, the meticulously designed trunks boast exquisite craftsmanship on every front. Every evolutionary form of its structure, hardware, leather, and eventual monogram continues to induce awe in the most stylish of fashionistas. But how did one design revolutionise travel bags forever?
The History
A modestly aged 16-year-old Louis Vuitton travelled to Paris in 1837 to start his career as a trunk maker. He honed his skills for 17 years before establishing his self-named brand in 1854. Located on rue neuve des Capucines in the 1st Arrondissement, Paris, Vuitton’s traditional environment was one of fashionable Parisian elites. A humble (in relation to the fashion giant today) sign hung outside his shop that read ‘Securely packs the most fragile objects. Specialising in packing fashions.’
The great seismic waves this single shop emitted in the world of luxury design stem from the simple shape of his trunks. The rectangular canvas completely subverted the traditional rounded-top leather trunks available on the market. As leather is not waterproof, the standard designs needed to be domed to allow water to trickle off; however, such shapes made stacking practically impossible. Vuitton’s response to this – a waterproof coated canvas fabric and a flat-top design, very similar to today’s luggage.
Not stopping there, Vuitton and his son, Georges, in 1886 added a single lock system with two spring buckles. For such innovation, Georges was awarded a patent on a seemingly simple contraption that continues to hallmark such trunks. After the death of Louis Vuitton, Georges took over the company – building upon the foundations laid out by his late father and exerting its reputation beyond the confines of Paris. The success, however, resulted in numerous imitations and counterfeits by their competitors. Having enough of cheap forgery and spurious imitations, Georges, in his typical inventive way, introduced the famous Louis Vuitton monogram, making his works much harder to copy.
The Present Louis Vuitton Trunk
Today, Louis Vuitton consistently celebrates its position as one of the most luxurious brands in the world – taking the top spot in the rankings for six consecutive years from 2006-2012. Not just a trunk manufacturer, the brand now sells luxury bags, shoes, perfumes, watches, jewellery, accessories, sunglasses, and even books. Their standalone boutiques, high-end outlets operate in 50 countries with more than 460 stores worldwide, in addition to their website. Collaborating with numerous creatives including Marc Jacobs, Jeff Koons, Yayoi Kusama, and even Kanye West.
The brand is committed to sustainability, enacting their 2020 pledge titled ‘Our Committed Journey,’ which establishes ambitious and quantified objectives to be reached by 2025-2030, such as reducing their direct carbon footprint by 55% – already achieving 12% of this from 2018.
Louis Vuitton Trunk at Auction
Lot 284
Louis Vuitton – travelling hat box.
Estimate: £1,800 – £2,400
Lot 287
Louis Vuitton – Monogram Boite vanity case.
Estimate: £2,000 – £2,500
Lot 286
Louis Vuitton – Monogram Boite Buteil vanity case.
Estimate: £2,000 – £2,500
Lot 283
Louis Vuitton – 100 Legendary Trunks book.
Price Realised: £78.00
Lot 639
Louis Vuitton – Voyagez pin badges.
Price Realised: £110.50
Valuations
Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction.
The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Virtual valuation appointments are also available.
Find what you’re looking for
Make sure you don’t miss finding that special something by signing up to our email alerts. You’ll be the first to know when catalogues become available, receive invitations to special events and preview the hottest lots from our auctions, plus much more.
Why not use our free personal shopping service? Sign up for lot alerts and tell us exactly what you are looking for. Each time we upload a catalogue, we search for your keywords and email you lots matching your interests. Your personalised email will include images, lot descriptions and auction details.
Luke McGurk BA, MA | Auction Assistant
Posted in Designer
Tagged auction, auctioneers, auctions, Birmingham, Fellows, fellowsauctioneers, Jewellery, Louis Vuitton, louis vuitton trunk, LV luggage, LV trunk
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February is a month dedicated to the expression of love. The hues of red to pink have lovingly spread into February. With notable gestures marked via different set aesthetics, whether it be home décor, nails, or a fashion statement.
Red is often the choice of colour associated with romance, whether it be roses, chocolates draped in a red ribbon bow, or the perfect alluring red lip. Showering your loved one in this colour can only induce the optimum feeling they can experience, signifying the purity of the gesture.
A key piece every woman desires to have within their wardrobe is a Chanel handbag. A classic statement Chanel handbag in red can be the perfect accessory to sophisticate a day or night date fit.
With its prominent red box and statement luxury pieces, Cartier has become known for all things jewellery. However, the art of gifting does not have to be limited to February. For example, you can bid on a Gold diamond ‘Juste un Clou’ bangle, by Cartier in our upcoming Fine Jewellery sale in March. To be the first to know about upcoming auctions, register here.
Here are my top red and pink picks from our upcoming Handbags, Jewellery & Accessories auction. Take the perfect opportunity to gift, and celebrate love in your life.
Lot 179
Hermès – ‘Regina’ silk scarf.
Estimate: £150 – £200
Lot 92
Christian Dior – Cannage Mini East West Lady Dior.
Price Realised: £793.00
Lot 227
Louis Vuitton – Monogram Vernis Fleurs Lexington Pochette.
Price Realised: £338.00
Valuations
Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction.
The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Virtual valuation appointments are also available.
Find what you’re looking for
Make sure you don’t miss finding that special something by signing up to our email alerts. You’ll be the first to know when catalogues become available, receive invitations to special events and preview the hottest lots from our auctions, plus much more.
Why not use our free personal shopping service? Sign up for lot alerts and tell us exactly what you are looking for. Each time we upload a catalogue, we search for your keywords and email you lots matching your interests. Your personalised email will include images, lot descriptions and auction details.
Hira Eden Ilyas | HR Manager
Posted in Designer
Tagged auction, auctioneers, auctions, Birmingham, Designer, designer auction, Fellows, fellowsauctioneers, Jewellery, valentines, valentines day
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Hermés Scarves
The now iconic Hermés carrés (meaning ‘square scarves’), first went into production exactly a century after Thierry Hermés opened doors to what is now one of the most prominent luxury fashion houses on the planet. Robert Dumas, a family member, created the must-have accessory using a woodblock and silk stronger than anything else available on the market – making it the most versatile and sought-after accessory amongst the Parisian high society.
Whether tied to a saddle, around the neck or as Princess Grace Kelly of Monaco did in 1957, used as an arm sling, the intricate and colourful designs quickly cemented its place as an elevated wardrobe staple. The creation process lives up to the thorough and meticulous reputation of the house, as each pattern takes over a year to finalise. Only releasing 12 designs per year, each motif can be traced back to the year of production and artist. This plays a key role in identifying whether your Hermés scarf is genuine, here are some factors you should be looking out for:
- Artist signature on every piece (sometimes subtle and hard, or fun, to find!)
- Hermés logo, and a copyright circled ‘c’.
- Hand-rolled hems – always facing upwards.
- Exact colour match with the thread.
- Clear and vibrant colouring.
Posted in Designer
Tagged auction, auctioneers, auctions, Birmingham, designer auction, Fellows, fellowsauctioneers, Hermes, hermes auction, hermes scarf, hermes scarves, Jewellery
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Jeremy Bentham
What do you think of when I say the word: mummy? Perhaps you think of Tutenkamun’s funerary mask, and last-minute toilet roll Halloween costumes, or maybe (like me) you think of Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz. I doubt, however, that you think of 19th-century philosophers. Jeremy Bentham wanted to change that.
Immortalised in the corridors of UCL, sits the mummified body of Jeremy Bentham. Now a local celebrity among the students, Bentham was once known for more than just his corpse. During his lifetime he was a somewhat controversial but hugely influential philosopher, jurist, and social reformer.
Upon his death, he commissioned 26 mourning rings to be made. Our upcoming Fine Jewellery auction will feature one of these rings, dedicated to Dr Neil Arnott. This ring has been with the Arnott family since it was made, making this the first time that it has been open to the public to view and to bid. The hunt to collect these 26 rings has been ongoing for several years, we are delighted to have uncovered another!
Life and Work
Jeremy Bentham lived from 1748 to 1832 and is best known for his development of utilitarianism, a consequentialist ethical theory that judges actions by their outcomes in terms of pleasure and pain. Bentham’s early life was marked by precocious intellectual talent, evident in his enrollment at Oxford University at the age of just 12. He later pursued legal studies and was called to the bar, but his true passion lay in philosophy and social reform.
In addition to his renowned philosophy of utilitarianism, he played a key role in founding University College London (UCL). Bentham’s vision for UCL emphasized practical, secular education accessible to all, regardless of social or religious background. He championed critical thinking and the application of knowledge to societal issues. Though he didn’t live to see its founding, Bentham’s influence shaped UCL’s ethos as a pioneering institution committed to intellectual freedom and social progress.
Utilitarianism and Beliefs
Utilitarianism, Bentham’s most significant contribution, posits that the morally right action is the one that maximises overall happiness or pleasure and minimises suffering or pain for the greatest number of people. However, Bentham’s work extended beyond philosophy. He was notable in fields such as economics, politics, and law. He advocated for legal and penal reform, arguing for the reduction of unnecessary suffering in prisons and the justice system. His ideas influenced many subsequent thinkers, including John Stuart Mill, who refined and popularized utilitarianism in the 19th century.
Bentham was a staunch advocate for individual freedoms and civil liberties, arguing for the protection of rights such as freedom of speech, freedom of religion, and the right to participate in democratic governance. He believed that a just society was one in which individuals were free to pursue their interests as long as they did not infringe upon the rights of others. He was also one of the earliest people to speak out in favour of women’s rights, animal rights, and the decriminalisation of homosexuality.
Jeremy Bentham: Death and Auto-Icon
Bentham seemed to have a preoccupation with his mortality and eventual death. He wrote his first will and testament when he was just 21. Consistent with his utilitarianism beliefs, Bentham had a pragmatic approach to end-of-life.
He passed away on June 6, 1832, at the age of 84. Upon his death, Bentham left specific instructions for the preservation of his body through a process called auto-iconisation. Following his wishes, his body was dissected, embalmed, and dressed in his usual attire. His preserved skeleton was then encased within a wooden frame, topped with a wax head sculpted to resemble him. This auto-icon, as Bentham termed it, was intended to serve as a visual reminder of his ideas and principles.
Bentham’s auto-icon was initially kept in a wooden cabinet, but it now resides in a specially designed glass case at UCL. Visitors can view the auto-icon and contemplate the legacy of one of history’s most influential philosophers.
Originally, Bentham had requested that his mummified head sit atop his body. Unfortunately, the preservation process was unsuccessfully resulting in a rather scary sight. It was therefore decided by University administration, to keep his head in their archives – although they sometimes bring it out for special exhibitions!
The Mourning Rings
Among his slightly odd requests for his death, he also commissioned 26 mourning rings. They featured his silhouette and a lock of his hair. These rings have now been scattered around the world, with people hunting to find them! The 26 recipients of these rings were:
Dr Neil Arnott
Sarah Austin
Henry Bickersteth
Felix Bodin
John Bowring
Samuel Cartwright
Edwin Chadwick
Mary Louise de Chesnel
Richard Doane
Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilber du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette
Albany Fonblanque
James Harfield
John Stuart Mill
General William Miller
Joseph Parkes
Francis Place
Jean-Baptiste Say
Thomas Southwood Smith
William Stockwell
William Tait
Thomas Perronet Thompson
John Tyrrell
José Cecilio del Valle
Jean-Sylvain de Weyer
Mary Watson
George Wheatley
We are delighted that our upcoming Fine Jewellery auction will feature one of these rings, once belonging to Dr Neil Arnott.
Jeremy Bentham’s Mourning Ring
This ring had been in Dr Neil Arnott’s family since it was first bequeathed to him in Bentham’s will. It came to Fellows by direct descent, meaning that this is the first time that this ring has been publically identified and has been open to the public to view and to bid. We are thrilled to offer to auction another one of these 26 historic rings. Similar rings have portraits of Bentham attributed to John Field.
Gold mourning ring, for Jeremy Bentham
Estimate: £2,000 – £3,000
Fine Jewellery | Thursday 21st March 2024
Viewing times (ID required):
London
Tuesday 12th March 12:00-19:00
Wednesday 13th March 10:00-16:00
Birmingham
Tuesday 19th March 10:00-16:00
Wednesday 20th March 10:00-16:00
Thursday 21st March 8:30-10:00
Virtual viewings are available by request. Virtual viewings are the ultimate personal shopping experience. Using Zoom, you can ask us whatever you need to know in order to buy with confidence. Find out more here.
Valuations
Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction.
The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Virtual valuation appointments are also available.
Find what you’re looking for
Make sure you don’t miss finding that special something by signing up to our email alerts. You’ll be the first to know when catalogues become available, receive invitations to special events and preview the hottest lots from our auctions, plus much more.
Why not use our free personal shopping service? Sign up for lot alerts and tell us exactly what you are looking for. Each time we upload a catalogue, we search for your keywords and email you lots matching your interests. Your personalised email will include images, lot descriptions and auction details.
Cordelia Porter | Research Coordinator
Posted in Jewellery
Tagged antiques, auction, auctioneers, auctions, Birmingham, Fellows, fellowsauctioneers, jeremy bentham, Jewellery, Mourning Jewellery, mourning ring, watch, watches
Comments Off on Jeremy Bentham and His Mourning Rings
We often see mourning rings in our jewellery auctions. Normally, the story we try to uncover is about who the ring commemorates. This is especially true in the case of our Jeremy Bentham mourning ring. However, the story of Jeremy Bentham’s ring goes far deeper than this. Bentham had 26 rings made during his lifetime to commemorate, perhaps prematurely, his death. His will stipulated that these 26 rings would be given to 26 of his closest friends and family. Now, almost 200 years later, these rings are scattered throughout the world, and the hunt to collect them is well and truly underway. In our upcoming Fine Jewellery auction, we are excited to offer to auction one of these rings, dedicated to Dr Neil Arnott.
Dr Neil Arnott
Arnott’s relationship with Bentham is somewhat unclear. They ran in very similar circles and shared a close mutual friend – Sir Edwin Chadwick (another ‘ring-owner’), so it is presumed that Arnott and Bentham were also close friends.
Arnott, despite coming from a family of master bakers, was a renowned doctor and inventor. He studied at the University of Aberdeen before going to London to learn under Sir Everard Home. By the age of 18, he was appointed a full surgeon. He travelled to China with the East India Company where he worked as a surgeon, before he settled in London where he practised from 1811 – 1854.
Throughout his life he gained a national reputation, he gave lectures and published several works, was one of the founders of the University of London, and was made physician to the likes of the French and Spanish embassies, and in 1837, the Queen.
Despite being mostly forgotten for his work as a doctor today, Arnott definitely left his own mark on society. Whilst you would not be blamed for not recognising his name, I highly doubt you would not be familiar with his most famous invention: the waterbed. Yes! This cultural icon of the 70s dates back to 19th-century medicine. Arnott originally created it to prevent bedsores in those who were bedbound. This design later led him to invent a similar water-filled chair which aimed to prevent seasickness!
Arnott clearly made an impression on Bentham in order to receive one of these coveted rings. Around the band of the ring, you can read the engraving: Memento for Dr Neil Arnott.
Jeremy Bentham’s Mourning Ring
Dr Neil Arnott’s ring has been in the Arnott family since it was first bequeathed to him in Bentham’s will. As the hunt for these rings has been ongoing for many years now, we are excited that we are able to offer this ring, for the first time, to auction.
It came to Fellows by descent, meaning that this ring has never been available for the public to view or to bid. It is undeniably exciting to have discovered another one of these 26 rings, the puzzle pieces seem to be fitting together!
Gold mourning ring, for Jeremy Bentham
Estimate: £2,000 – £3,000
Fine Jewellery | Thursday 21st March 2024
Viewing times (ID required):
London
Tuesday 12th March 12:00-19:00
Wednesday 13th March 10:00-16:00
Birmingham
Tuesday 19th March 10:00-16:00
Wednesday 20th March 10:00-16:00
Thursday 21st March 8:30-10:00
Virtual viewings are available by request. Virtual viewings are the ultimate personal shopping experience. Using Zoom, you can ask us whatever you need to know in order to buy with confidence. Find out more here.
Valuations
Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction.
The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Virtual valuation appointments are also available.
Find what you’re looking for
Make sure you don’t miss finding that special something by signing up to our email alerts. You’ll be the first to know when catalogues become available, receive invitations to special events and preview the hottest lots from our auctions, plus much more.
Why not use our free personal shopping service? Sign up for lot alerts and tell us exactly what you are looking for. Each time we upload a catalogue, we search for your keywords and email you lots matching your interests. Your personalised email will include images, lot descriptions and auction details.
Cordelia Porter | Research Coordinator
Posted in Jewellery
Tagged 19th Century, antiques, auction, auctioneers, auctions, Birmingham, Fellows, fellowsauctioneers, jeremy bentham, Jewellery, Mourning Jewellery
Comments Off on Dr Neil Arnott
A Potted History of Christian Dior Costume Jewellery
Founding Years (1946 – 1957)
Christian Dior was a big believer in jewellery being an integral part of a complete outfit. With the “New Look” collection in 1947, Dior has been credited with redefining women’s fashion in the post-war period. He considered the entire outfit within his couture collections, and jewellery was an important component. Starting in the late 1940s, Dior started to design jewellery to go along with his couture collections. Jewellery to go along with the ready-to-wear collections soon followed. Jewellery from these early collections, such as “New Look”, which were designed by Christian Dior himself (or his early protegees) are highly sought after by collectors.
Golden Age of Dior Costume Jewellery (1950s-1960s)
The early days of Dior jewellery manufacturing are a who’s who of costume jewellery makers. Starting with Josette Gripoix, they also collaborated with Robert Goosens, Roger Jean-Pierre, Mitchell Maer, Scemama, Screiner and Kramer. Any pieces from this era are highly sought after by collectors and we have seen them realise extraordinary prices at auction. Matching sets or complete jewellery suites from this period are incredibly rare and collectable.
Lot 648
Christian Dior – brooch by Mitchel Maer.
Price Realised: £175.50
Perhaps the best-known Dior partner was the company Henkel & Grosse. More commonly referred to as just Grosse, they started working with Dior in 1955 and for the next fifty years were responsible for the production of Christian Dior Bijoux, along with their own ranges.
Lot 186
Christian Dior – a pair of clip-on earrings.
Price Realised: £312.00
The collaboration with Manfred Swarovski (grandson of Swarovski founder Daniel) in 1950 shone a light on both Swarovski and Dior jewellery. Christian Dior tasked Swarovski to create a crystal that reminded him of the mirrors and candelabra of the Palace of Versailles. With this brief in mind, Manfred Swarovski created the “Aurore Boréale”, a Swarovski crystal with an iridescent coating to mimic the rainbow or flashes of “fire” seen both in the reflections of the hall of mirrors and diamonds. The subsequent jewellery designed by Francis Winter for Dior followed the theme of Louis XVI’s decadence and replicated 18th-century parures.
Lot 111
Christian Dior – a brooch with matching clip-on earrings.
Price Realised: £1,300.00
When Christian Dior died in 1957, the fashion house he’d founded continued. With the likes of Yves Saint Laurent and Marc Bohan, the brand remained at the forefront of fashion jewellery. The creative directors continued to reflect Dior’s values and the jewellery released still often reflected the couture designs.
Later Vintage and Contemporary Fashion Jewellery (1980s – 2000s)
Moving towards the 80s and 90s, there was a shift towards incorporating the logo and recognisable motifs into the main design. Modern Christian Dior costume jewellery continues to embody the brand’s signature elegance, sophistication, and innovation while embracing contemporary design trends and materials. The motifs often directly reflect motifs found within their handbag designs as well as the couture collections and remain coveted by collectors.
Lot 558
Dior – bangle.
Price Realised: £214.50
Lot 539
Christian Dior – hoops.
Price Realised: £253.50
Lot 661
Christian Dior – chain necklace.
Price Realised: £97.50
Dior Costume Jewellery at Auction
In our February Handbags, Jewellery & Accessories auction – we had a fantastic selection of undeniably stunning Christian Dior costume jewellery. Examples of which you can see below:
Lot 551
Christian Dior – brooch.
Price Realised: £54.60
Lot 536
Christian Dior – clip-on earrings.
Price Realised: £49.40
Lot 558
Christian Dior – brooch and clip-on earring set.
Price Realised: £351.00
Lot 501
Christian Dior – brooch.
Price Realised: £97.50
Lot 503
Dior – brooch.
Price Realised: £162.50
Lot 534
Christian Dior – brooch.
Price Realised: £84.50
Valuations
Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction.
The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Virtual valuation appointments are also available.
Find what you’re looking for
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Nicola Whittaker | Head of Handbags
Posted in Designer
Tagged antiques, auction, auctioneers, auctions, Birmingham, Christian Dior, costume jewellery, Designer, designer auction, designer costume jewellery, dior jewellery, Fellows, fellowsauctioneers, Jewellery, watch, watches
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Mulberry is known for its desirable Designer handbags and luxury leather goods. Established in 1971 by Roger Saul, with the help of various family members including his sister Rosemary who designed the Mulberry logo. Rosemary was inspired by the trees Saul would pass every day on his way to school, she also wanted it to represent the idea of family and the growth of this English brand. One of the most recognisable Mulberry bags is the Mulberry Bayswater.
Mulberry Bayswater
The Mulberry Bayswater is now over 20 years old and remains one of Mulberry’s most popular styles, certainly proving itself to be a style with longevity.
Nicholas Knightly designed the soon-to-be ‘It bag’ in 2003. Knightly named the Bayswater after an area in West London, not far from Notting Hill – where the bag was rightfully recognised in 2004.
Quickly the new bag became popular within the celebrity world. Kate Moss, Blake Lively, Meghan Markle and Sienna Miller were a few who styled this timeless classic shoulder bag, giving the Bayswater the attention it deserved.
The Bayswater has stood the test of time and is still a popular bag, they do look as good or some say even better as they grow older. The style is perfect for everyday use, being such a convenient size and their exceptional leather quality, making it a bag that can be used for a lifetime and then passed on.
Mulberry Bayswater at Auction
Lot 317
Mulberry – Bayswater tote.
Price Realised: £240.50
Lot 315
Mulberry – embossed Bayswater tote.
Estimate: £350 – £450
Lot 314
Mulberry – embossed Bayswater tote.
Price Realised: £227.50
Valuations
Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction.
The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Virtual valuation appointments are also available.
Find what you’re looking for
Make sure you don’t miss finding that special something by signing up to our email alerts. You’ll be the first to know when catalogues become available, receive invitations to special events and preview the hottest lots from our auctions, plus much more.
Why not use our free personal shopping service? Sign up for lot alerts and tell us exactly what you are looking for. Each time we upload a catalogue, we search for your keywords and email you lots matching your interests. Your personalised email will include images, lot descriptions and auction details.
Georgie Fellows | Designer Assistant
Posted in Designer
Tagged auction, auctioneers, auctions, bayswater, Birmingham, Fellows, fellowsauctioneers, Jewellery, Mulberry, mulberry baywater, pre owned mulberry
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Valentine’s Day Gifts
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to show your loved one how much you care. Whether you’re in a new relationship or have been together for years, thoughtful Valentine’s Day gifts can make all the difference.
If you’re looking for gift ideas, there are plenty of options. A classic bouquet of roses is always a romantic choice, but you could also consider something more unique, like a personalized photo album or a piece of jewellery.
Of course, here at Fellows, we would always suggest a piece of jewellery! And so today we’ve asked some of our members of staff to pick out items from our upcoming sale that they would like to receive, hopefully to give you some inspiration!
Valentine’s Day Gifts: Our Team Picks
Patricia’s Pick:
Eros is the Greek god of love, can’t think of a better sentiment to receive on Valentine’s Day than Cupid himself.
Lot 1007
9ct gold Eros pendant
Estimate: £90 – £140
Georgie’s Pick:
I love the design of the Irish Claddagh ring, but I also like what the ‘Heart in hands’ represents – Love Loyalty and Friendship. This ring would remind me of the people I care for and love. Especially my family, including my grandparents who were Irish.
Lot 668
9ct gold claddagh ring
Estimate: £100 – £150
Krishna’s Pick:
The heart pendant with its intricate design featuring birds and a floral chain is stunning. I believe it’s a beautiful statement piece that could effortlessly elevate any outfit. Also, the combination of the ruby’s deep red hue and the symbolic elements of birds and flowers make it a uniquely special and romantic choice.
Lot 282
Synthetic ruby & paste necklace
Estimate: £1,000 – £1,500
Eve’s Pick:
The timelessly elegant design of this bangle, complete with two split pearl intertwined hearts, makes it a lovely gift for Valentines Day. The simplicity of the bangle makes it a versatile piece, while the hearts serve perfectly as a symbol of love. Representing purity, loyalty, and serenity, with associations to Aphrodite, the goddess of love, the beautiful split pearls create a complete essence of romance, conveying love, and devotion.
Lot 1027
Split pearl double heart bangle
Estimate: £150 – £200
Jewellery | Day One & Day Two – Tuesday 13th & Wednesday 14th of February
Viewing Times (ID required):
BirminghamMonday 12th February 10:00-16:00
Virtual viewings are available by request. Virtual viewings are the ultimate personal shopping experience. Using Zoom, you can ask us whatever you need to know in order to buy with confidence. Find out more here.
Valuations
Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction.
The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Virtual valuation appointments are also available.
Find what you’re looking for
Make sure you don’t miss finding that special something by signing up to our email alerts. You’ll be the first to know when catalogues become available, receive invitations to special events and preview the hottest lots from our auctions, plus much more.
Why not use our free personal shopping service? Sign up for lot alerts and tell us exactly what you are looking for. Each time we upload a catalogue, we search for your keywords and email you lots matching your interests. Your personalised email will include images, lot descriptions and auction details.
Patricia Preuschoff | Catalogue Manager, Handbags and Accessories
Georgie Fellows | Designer Assistant
Krishna Vara | Social Media Executive
Eve Darby | Jewellery Administrator
Posted in Jewellery
Tagged auction, auctioneers, auctions, Birmingham, Fellows, fellowsauctioneers, Jewellery, Valentine's Day, valentines, watch, watches
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Breitling has been known to make timepieces for aviation and sports ever since the late 19th century, when Léon Breitling began to gain recognition for his reliable movements that were manufactured to have a power reserve of eight days.During a long recession in Saint-Imier, Switzerland, watchmaking was a way of life. Breitling envisioned the fact that the future would advance. One way in which he could help it do so was to innovate better timekeeping.From a workshop in a bustling square to a factory in La Chaux-de-Fonds, the brand became recognisable internationally by the turn of the century for its chronographs’ accuracy of two-fifths of a second and early pocket watch tachymeters under the renewed official company name: L. Breitling, Montbrilliant Watch Manufactory.In 1914, Gaston Breitling succeeded his father and the focus shifted to wrist watches; creating one of the first wrist-worn chronographs a year later. This was created with a single-pusher which could be used to start, stop and reset the second hand to zero. This broadened the interest in Breitling’s innovations to athletes, physicians and the advancing aviation industry.
Development of Breitling
By the 1930’s Breitling had over thirty-five watch models. Not all of their examples had the snailed tachymeter dials and chronograph functions though. They also featured elegant, simple and classic designs.During the same period, Breitling also pursued their innovations in aviation time-keeping, creating the Huit Aviation Department. Cockpit clocks were crafted to comply with airline requirements of light weight, accuracy and readability.They supplied vast amounts of cockpit instruments to the RAF and became an official supplier. During the Second World War, even through a rocky relationship, continued to supply the RAF in mountain meadows during covert meetings.It becomes apparent that without the Breitling family, chronographs as we know them wouldn’t exist. Willy Breitling had the idea to introduce a secondary pusher at the fourth-hour marker. This allowed the user to reset the stopwatch function. This was then mirrored by many other brands. It is still one of the most recognisable and attainable complications a watch enthusiast can have.
Contemporary Breitling Designs
As we graduate from the 1940s through the mid-century, more recognisable models like the Premier – a model that combined elegance and practicality – and the Chronomat were introduced. Below are a couple of examples of early designs which showcase how much, yet how little has changed since. Whilst the styles can vary through the years, Breitling watches still have fundamental characteristics that stickWith their SuperOcean examples, they factored in even more durability to withstand the depths, later examples like the 2005 reference ensured the readability of the dial with clean, simple dials with bright luminous markers. One last celebrated model, which to me is the epitome of “Breitling” design: The Navitimer.This watch is more instrument than a watch in its nature, allowing Pilots to calculate speed, distance, rate of ascent/descent and conversion of miles to kilometres or even nautical miles. It is one of the few designs to incorporate a slide-rule bezel which allows the user to make such calculations.To the average collector or consumer, the design can appear almost intimidating and overwhelmingly complicated – because it is! It was made for a niche market and yet it became a sensation with the average collector too.Breitling as a brand has adapted itself to the contemporary market whilst keeping true to its practical values. There is a certain ‘solid’ feel to each model and the durability of timepieces has a huge role to play in the watch market in general, never mind for instrumental pieces used by specialists in security, aviation and sea-faring industries.One thing remained at the forefront of all Breitling watches reliability. You could always depend on your Breitling watch to be readable, precise and to function for a long duration of time whether on land, air or sea.
Breitling Watches at Auction
Lot 14
Breitling – a limited edition Premier B21 Chronograph Tourbillon 42 watch, 42mm.
Price Realised: £28,600.00
Lot 16
Breitling – a Navitimer chronograph watch, 41mm.
Price Realised: £3,965.00
Lot 9
Breitling – Navitimer chronograph watch, 38mm.
Price Realised: £1,560.00
Lot 8
Breitling – a Chronomat Evolution chronograph watch, 43mm.
Price Realised: £2,665.00
Lot 12
Breitling – an Avenger chronograph watch, 45mm.
Price Realised: £1,950.00
Valuations
Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction.
The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Virtual valuation appointments are also available.
Find what you’re looking for
Make sure you don’t miss finding that special something by signing up to our email alerts. You’ll be the first to know when catalogues become available, receive invitations to special events and preview the hottest lots from our auctions, plus much more.
Why not use our free personal shopping service? Sign up for lot alerts and tell us exactly what you are looking for. Each time we upload a catalogue, we search for your keywords and email you lots matching your interests. Your personalised email will include images, lot descriptions and auction details.
Kain Holroyd | Head of Watches
Posted in Watches
Tagged auction, auctioneers, auctions, Birmingham, Breitling, breitling watch, Fellows, fellowsauctioneers, Jewellery, watch, watches
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The Rolex ‘Double Red’
Rolex is a name that has become synonymous with ‘tool’ watches, watches that were designed to carry out a task. Their iconic models include the Submariner, the GMT and the Explorer. One of these tool watches that is not so well known, but highly sought after amongst collectors is the Sea-Dweller. This was launched back in 1967 (reference 1665), the Rolex ‘Double Red’ and is still a model name used today. It was an evolution of Rolex’s famed dive watch, the Submariner. The Submariner at that time had a depth rating of 200m/660ft, however, the Sea-Dweller was aimed at those who went deeper and had a depth rating of 610m/2000ft!
Differences Between the Sea-Dweller and the Submariner
There were a few differences that separated the Sea-Dweller from the Submariner. One of which was the addition of a helium escape valve on the side of the case. Saturation divers would often notice a strange phenomenon with their Submariners, the crystal would often pop out in the decompression chamber after a dive! Saturation diving requires helium in the breathing gas mix and after prolonged exposure, helium particles would form inside the watch’s case. These particles would escape from the weakest point, which was the plexiglass. Rolex solved this issue by patenting their helium escape valve (Swiss patent reference CH492246 if you’re interested!!) which let these helium particles escape via this mechanism. The Sea-Dweller also has a thicker domed crystal and a thicker case than the Submariner. Also, this 1665 reference is one of the few watches where Rolex engraved on the case back.
Another difference between the Sea-Dweller and the Submariner was the red writing on the first-generation Sea-Dweller dial. The text ‘Sea-Dweller’ and ‘Submariner 2000’ is in red giving the dial a lovely pop of colour and has been given the nickname ‘Double Red’ amongst Rolex collectors. These early Sea-Dwellers are hugely sought after amongst Rolex collectors and rarely come to market as they didn’t sell in huge numbers and those that were sold were often used in saturation diving which further diminished their numbers. The ‘Double Red’ Sea-Dweller was in fact production for 10 years between
1967 to 1977 before being replaced by the ‘Great White’ which was technically very simpler but did away with that lovely red text.
Rolex ‘Double Red’ Sea-Dweller at Auction
The Watch auction on Thursday 8th February features a Rolex Sea-Dweller ‘Double Red’ reference 1665. This is a lovely example dating from 1973 and comes with box and service receipts from 1985 and 1998. It has an estimate of £18,000-22,000 and will undoubtedly attract a lot of interest.
Lot 129
Rolex – a Sea Dweller ‘Double Red’ watch, 39mm.
Price Realised: £21,450.00
Valuations
Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction.
The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Virtual valuation appointments are also available.
Find what you’re looking for
Make sure you don’t miss finding that special something by signing up to our email alerts. You’ll be the first to know when catalogues become available, receive invitations to special events and preview the hottest lots from our auctions, plus much more.
Why not use our free personal shopping service? Sign up for lot alerts and tell us exactly what you are looking for. Each time we upload a catalogue, we search for your keywords and email you lots matching your interests. Your personalised email will include images, lot descriptions and auction details.
Steven Yambo | Watch Specialist
Posted in Watches
Tagged antiques, auction, auctioneers, auctions, Birmingham, Fellows, fellowsauctioneers, Jewellery, rolex, rolex double red, rolex sea dweller, sea dweller, watch, Watch auction, watches
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The Vienna Secession
The Vienna Secession was founded in 1897. It was a revolutionary art movement in Vienna, Austria. It emerged as a response to the academic constraints of traditional art and aimed to break free from conventional norms. This is similar to the ideas of the Arts & Crafts movement which mainly took place in England. The Secessionists, who included artists like Gustav Klimt, believed in the autonomy of art. They emphasized the need for innovation as well as individual expression. They sought to create a platform for avant-garde artists to explore new styles and ideas.
The Secessionists embraced various art forms, including painting, sculpture, and architecture, fostering a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach. One of their most iconic achievements was the construction of the Secession Building, a unique structure designed by Joseph Maria Olbrich, featuring a distinctive dome covered in golden laurel leaves.
Wiener Werkstätte
Two of the founders of this movement, Koloman Moser and Josef Hoffmann, went on to create the Wiener Werkstätte in 1903: literally, Vienna Workshops. The workshops brought together a diverse group of artists, including architects, designers, and craftsmen, to nurture collaboration and innovation.
Influenced by the ideas of Gesamtkunstwerk, or total artwork, the Wiener Werkstätte aimed to create integration between various artistic disciplines, such as architecture, furniture, textiles, as well as graphic design. Renowned for their distinctive geometric patterns and sinuous simplicity, creations from these workshops became synonymous with the Art Nouveau and later the Secessionist movements. One area that flourished at these workshops, was jewellery. Characterised by geometric shapes and vibrant enamel work, the Wiener Werkstätte’s jewellery showcased a harmonious blend of fine craftsmanship and artistic innovation. The jewellery embraced modern aesthetics, rejecting the ornate styles of the past.
Much like Arts & Crafts and Art Nouveau, Wiener Werkstätte’s impact extended beyond Austria, influencing the development of modern design internationally. However, financial challenges and the upheavals of World War I led to the eventual dissolution of the Wiener Werkstätte in 1932. Despite its relatively short existence, the Wiener Werkstätte left an enduring legacy, shaping the trajectory of 20th-century design and emphasizing the importance of craftsmanship in the artistic process.
Wiener Werkstätte at Auction
Lot 16
Silver gilt gem necklace, by the Wiener Werkstätte
Price Realised: £3,315.00
Valuations
Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction.
The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Virtual valuation appointments are also available.
Find what you’re looking for
Make sure you don’t miss finding that special something by signing up to our email alerts. You’ll be the first to know when catalogues become available, receive invitations to special events and preview the hottest lots from our auctions, plus much more.
Why not use our free personal shopping service? Sign up for lot alerts and tell us exactly what you are looking for. Each time we upload a catalogue, we search for your keywords and email you lots matching your interests. Your personalised email will include images, lot descriptions and auction details.
Cordelia Porter | Research Coordinator
Posted in Jewellery
Tagged antiques, auction, auctioneers, auctions, Birmingham, Fellows, fellowsauctioneers, Jewellery, vienna, vienna secession, watch, watches, Wiener Werkstätte
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The Caterpillar Club
The humble Caterpillar Club brooch. Measuring no more than 2 centimetres, these miniature lapel pins may seem unassuming. But if you take a closer look, if you perhaps turned one over, and if you look closely at the reverse – you will see a name. Behind that name, there will undoubtedly be a story. Here at Fellows, we have been privileged enough to tell four of these stories and this January for our Jewellery auction we’re able to tell a fifth.
These brooches, gold with garnet eyes, were awarded to those people who bailed out of an aircraft and subsequently survived through the use of a parachute. More specifically, an Irvin Air Chute parachute. Because they are inscribed with the name of the person who jumped, we are often able to trace that person through military records to find service numbers and details of the event.
As a matter of fact, just last year we were able to trace the life of C E Stead. Not only did we uncover more about his life before he joined the RAF, but we were able to find a first-person account of the incident that earned him his place in this elusive club.
S. C. Alldis
The most recent pin that we are fortunate to put to auction once belonged to S C Alldis, who we believe to be Stanley Cranston Alldis, service number: 1398378.
Alldis was born in Sussex, in 1922. By the time WWII began, he would’ve been just 17 years old. He returned home at the end of the war and later married his wife, Brenda, in 1953 at age 31. He passed away aged 79 in 2002.
While we might not have that much information about Alldis and his life at home, we do know that in 1957 he was awarded the Air Force Cross, examples of which we have seen in previous auctions.
11th November 1944
On the 11th of November 1944 at 16:54 an Avro Lancaster MK 1 took off, carrying seven men from No. 57 Squadron.
Their names were Samuel Bowden (pilot), Lewis Wolfe Nagley (navigator), Cyril ‘Titch’ Bayford (air gunner), Sidney Charles Green (air gunner), Arthur Brett (flight engineer), James Aloysius McLaughlin (wireless operator), and Stanley Cranston Alldis (bomb aimer).
Image credit to the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre
They departed from East Kirby for an operation against the Rhenania-Ossag oil refinery in Hamburg. Just over two hours later, at 19:27 the Lancaster was hit with exploding shells fired from the ground. On the first impact, the flak hit one of the engines and a rear turret which were subsequently torn off.
Image credit to the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre
The remainder of the aircraft bounced and flew for over a kilometre until it finally crash-landed just outside Hamburg, near Beckdorf. Five out of the seven men on board were unfortunately lost to this accident.
It is believed that the two survivors bailed out of the aircraft via parachute; Lewis Wolfe Nagley and Stanley Cranston Alldis, both men were then taken prisoner of war.
In 2009 after over 60 years of research, the son of Cyril Bayford – the air gunner on board, was eventually able to track down the site of the crash. Consequently, he enlisted support from eyewitnesses and locals from the surrounding area, and with the assistance of an archaeologist, they were able to excavate the remnants of the plane crash. They found hundreds of items, including the pilot’s watch strap which was then returned to his family and given to his great nephew. Many of the items on board have now been returned to East Kirkby. These items are now part of the collection at the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre.
Sgt S. C. Alldis’s Caterpillar Club Brooch
Shortly after bailing from the aircraft, Alldis was taken to and held at Stalag Luft 7 Bankau, near Kreuzburg. He was only 22 years old.
Owing to this incident, Alldis earned a place in the Caterpillar Club.
Our first Jewellery auction of the year will feature his brooch that commemorates this undeniably brave feat.
Lot 55
Gold World War Two Irvin Caterpillar Club brooch
Price Realised: £1,365.00
Our Antiques specialist, Alison Snowdon said: “We are thrilled to have had another Caterpillar Club consigned for our upcoming jewellery auction. Awarded to Stanley Cranston Alldis, this little gold brooch marks a moment of bravery with a life saved by the use of a parachute“.
Previous Caterpillar Club Brooches at Fellows
Lot 594
Two WWII ‘Caterpillar Club’ badges, engraved ‘P/O. C E Stead’, one gold
Price Realised: £2,795.00
Lot 17
A 9ct gold red enamel ‘Caterpillar Club’ badge, engraved ‘Sgt. W. H. T. Farmer’
Price Realised: £2,169.20
Lot 4
A gold ‘Caterpillar Club’ brooch
Price Realised: £1,173.92
Lot 11
A ‘Caterpillar Club’ brooch
Price Realised: £1,531.20
Valuations
Our valuations are free, with no obligation to sell with us. Our experts will value your item with an estimate, so you can find out what it could achieve at auction.
The process is simple. You can fill in a form online or book an appointment to visit either of our offices in Birmingham or London. Virtual valuation appointments are also available.
Find what you’re looking for
Make sure you don’t miss finding that special something by signing up to our email alerts. You’ll be the first to know when catalogues become available, receive invitations to special events and preview the hottest lots from our auctions, plus much more.
Why not use our free personal shopping service? Sign up for lot alerts and tell us exactly what you are looking for. Each time we upload a catalogue, we search for your keywords and email you lots matching your interests. Your personalised email will include images, lot descriptions and auction details.
Cordelia Porter | Research Coordinator
Posted in Antiques, Jewellery
Tagged antiques, auction, auctioneers, auctions, Birmingham, caterpillar club brooch, caterpillarclub, Fellows, fellowsauctioneers, Jewellery, militaria, The Caterpillar Club, watch, watches, ww2, WWII
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Colombian Emeralds
Not all gemstones are made equally! Some are far more desirable than others, for example, Sri Lankan, Burmese, and Padparadscha sapphires. However, when it comes to emeralds, it is Colombian emeralds that are world-renowned for their exceptional quality, rich colour, and unparalleled beauty.
Mined from the country’s emerald-rich regions, particularly in the Andes, these gemstones have been coveted for centuries. The Muzo, Chivor, and Coscuez mines are the primary sources of these stunning stones. As a matter of fact, the Muzo mine is – to this day, the most important emerald mine in the world. Their unique geological conditions are what give these gems their distinctive green hue and high clarity.
Because of this, the finest Colombian emeralds are considered to be among the most valuable and rarest gemstones in the world. They are often highly sought after by collectors, jewellers, as well as gemstone connoisseurs. Therefore, if you’re looking for a truly exceptional gemstone, a Colombian emerald will be an excellent and timeless choice.
Emeralds have been officially mined in Colombia for over 500 years, and the industry has played a significant role in the country’s economy as well as culture. Because of this, the Colombian government has implemented regulations to ensure that the mining of these emeralds is responsible and sustainable.
The History of Colombian Emeralds
The first recorded emerald mines date back over 2000 years to Ancient Egypt in 330 BC. One of the most famous historical figures to love these green stones was Cleopatra. While she was Queen she claimed ownership of all the emerald mines in the Egyptian empire. To the Egyptians, emeralds were a symbol of protection, and they were believed to have the power to predict future events.
In the Americas, archaeologists believe that pre-Colombian people such as the Muzo people, had been mining emeralds since 500 AD. This is apparent in their mythology and culture. There is one particularly important myth, the story of Fura and Tena, that firmly places emerald at the centre of cultural development. The myth goes that the supreme god, Are, created Fura and Tena to populate the world. They were promised eternal youth as long as they stayed faithful to one another – Fura, however, did not remain faithful. Eternal youth was taken away from them and they aged rapidly. Are then took pity on the pair, and instead turned them into huge cliffs in order to protect them from the elements. In these cliffs, the Muzo people found emeralds and believed them to be Fura’s tears. The two cliffs are considered sacred and are still the official guardians of Colombia’s emerald zone.
In the 16th century, the Spanish conquistadors overpowered many of the indigenous people in the Americas and subsequently took over emerald mining.
Colombian Emeralds at Auction
Lot 293
Colombian Emerald and diamond ring
Estimate: £10,000 – £15,000
Alongside this stunning Colombian example, we have several other emeralds in our auction. Our particular favourites are:
Lot 29
Emerald & diamond earrings
Estimate: £600 – £800
Lot 146
Victorian 18ct gold emerald & diamond ring
Estimate: £500 – £700
Jewellery | 25th January 2024
Viewing times (ID required):
London
- Tuesday 16th January 12:00-19:00
- Wednesday 17th January 10:00-16:00
- Tuesday 23rd January 10:00-16:00
- Wednesday 24th January 10:00-16:00
- Thursday 25th January 8:30-10:00
Posted in Jewellery
Tagged antiques, auction, auctioneers, auctions, Birmingham, colombian emerald, emerald, Emerald ring, Emeralds, Fellows, fellowsauctioneers, Jewellery
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Charles William Dyson Perrins