{"title":"4.26 Treasured Through Time","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"mother-of-pearl-sewing-necessaire","title":"Mother-of-Pearl Sewing Nécessaire","description":"This captivating Palais Royal sewing nécessaire is crafted of engraved mother of pearl mounted in rich doré bronze. The hinged box contains a removable tray lined with velvet that holds an assortment of exquisitely decorated mother-of-pearl and gilt sewing tools in fitted niches, including scissors, a thimble, an awl, a crochet hook, a needle case and two spoked bobbins. Combined with the exterior's intricate bronze work, this lovely yet practical nécessaire exemplifies the best of Palais Royal artistry and elegance. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1825 with later thimble \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 6 5\/8\" wide x 4 7\/8\" deep x 4 1\/4\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873921663111,"sku":"31-2483","price":18850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-2483_1_ce845211-4d49-4ec8-9556-8b2282119946.png?v=1772350801"},{"product_id":"les-roses-dispahan-by-lucien-levy-dhurmer","title":"Les roses d'Ispahan by Lucien Lévy-Dhurmer","description":"Lucien Lévy-Dhurmer\u003cbr\u003e 1865-1953 | French \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eLes roses d’Ispahan\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed \"Lévy Dhurmer\" (lower left)\u003cbr\u003e Oil on canvas \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e French painter Lucien Lévy-Dhurmer was one of the leading artists of the Symbolist and Art Nouveau movements at the turn of the century. This stunning oil on canvas is imbued with a misty, hazy romanticism that characterizes many of his landscapes and portraits, and it is an exceptional example of Lévy-Dhurmer’s ability to transport the viewer into an imaginary journey of the senses. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Partly obscured by a rose bush, the Persian city of Isfahan, in present-day Iran, forms the expansive vista. The painting's title is taken from the poem by Charles Leconte de Lisle, which was famously set to music by Gabriel Fauré in 1884. Lévy-Dhurmer's incredible brushwork and mastery of color bring the vista to life with thousands of feathery strokes, perfectly evoking the allure and mystery of this legendary city. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Born in French Algeria in 1865, Lucien Lévy-Dhurmer studied drawing and sculpture in Paris as a child and began his artistic career as a decorative painter at a porcelain manufactory in Golfe-Juan. Throughout his long career, Lévy-Dhurmer experimented with different artistic styles and mediums, succeeding as a ceramicist, painter, pastelist and furniture designer. Perhaps his most celebrated work, the famed Wisteria Dining Room, which is now held in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a brilliant example of the artist’s remarkable range of skills in various media. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e His trip to Italy in 1895 would change the course of his life and interests. It was there that he discovered an interest in German and Florentine Renaissance—resulting in paintings that fit in nicely alongside those of the English Pre-Raphaelites. That same year, Lévy-Dhurmer officially began his painting career. In 1896, he held his first solo exhibition at the Galerie Georges Petit in Paris, where he appeared for the first time under the name Lévy-Dhurmer, adding to his surname Lévy part of his mother’s maiden name, Pauline-Amelie Goldhurmer. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e His unique blend of Academic detail with Impressionist color and technique garnered the artist considerable attention. He was drawn to the ideals of the Symbolist movement, which offered an intellectual alternative to the purely visual pursuits of the Impressionists. After 1900, Lévy-Dhurmer’s work explored the emotional and lyrical possibilities of landscape and atmosphere. Similar landscapes by Lévy-Dhurmer from this period reside in the Denver Art Museum and the Musée d’Orsay in Paris. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1910 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Canvas: 23 3\/4\" high x 32\" wide (60.33 x 81.28 cm)\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 30\" high x 38 1\/8\" wide x 2\" deep (76.20 x 96.84 x 5.08 cm) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Private collection, London\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans\u003cbr\u003e Private collection, California\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44422079479943,"sku":"31-4730","price":228500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-4730_1_544fb0d5-bcda-4765-9888-9062b04032a5.png?v=1775582534"},{"product_id":"van-cleef-arpels-emerald-bee-pins","title":"Van Cleef \u0026 Arpels Emerald Bee Pins","description":"Exuding timeless charm, this trio of pins from French jeweler Van Cleef \u0026amp; Arpels takes the form of whimsical bees. Encrusted with glittering white diamonds, two pins feature vivid green cabochon emeralds, while the third is highlighted by a natural pearl. The set is fit in its original box. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e One of the most celebrated names in jewelry, Van Cleef \u0026amp; Arpels has attracted the most affluent clientele for more than a century, counting royalty and celebrities among its list of devotees. Bold in design and expertly crafted, this set of pins embodies the style and artistry for which Van Cleef \u0026amp; Arpels is renowned across the globe. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Set in 18K yellow gold \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1960 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Largest brooch measures 1\" wide x 1 1\/4\" length","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44263400505479,"sku":"31-6821","price":64000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-6821_1_d56d17fc-eaf1-446e-ae5e-faf564d3bc1d.png?v=1774966418"},{"product_id":"pair-of-blue-john-and-bronze-cassolettes","title":"Pair of Blue John and Bronze Cassolettes","description":"Blending natural wonder and artistic prowess, this magnificent pair of cassolettes is a symphony of craftsmanship. The intricate gilt bronze decor, only made possible by the finest craftsmen of the 19th century, is further elevated by the bodies, formed from stunning examples of Blue John. The Blue John specimens are not only remarkable in size but also stunning in the natural patterns of the hardstone. The translucent crystalline layers of the stone radiate outwards in bands of deep blues, rich purples and golden yellows. It embodies all of the best attributes of this highly coveted material. Only the most gifted of artisans were charged with crafting exquisite masterworks such as this, as Blue John demands a great deal of skill in its handling. A soft and brittle stone, it responds very quickly to heat and must be carefully dried to retain its original color.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The term \"cassolette\" is from the French word \u003cem\u003ecassole,\u003c\/em\u003e meaning \"small container.\" While the word has other meanings in culinary respects, in the decorative arts, cassolettes are small covered vases meant to hold perfumed substances or incense. Popular during the 18th and 19th centuries, these objets d'art were crafted from all manner of materials, including marble, porcelain and bronze. The most coveted examples were formed from desirable stones such as Blue John, amethyst or chalcedony, as seen in the present pair. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Late 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Each: 11\" high x 5 7\/8\" wide x 4\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42508351897735,"sku":"31-8348","price":68850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8348_1.png?v=1743858789"},{"product_id":"muhammad-ali-signed-speed-bag-gift-to-sir-elton-john","title":"Muhammad Ali Signed Speed Bag, Gift to Sir Elton John","description":"This iconic speed bag from the esteemed collection of Sir Elton John holds a special significance as a gift from his close friend, Muhammad Ali. Signed and inscribed in silver pen with the heartfelt message, \"Elton 1\/10 90, From your friend Muhammad Ali,\" it symbolizes the bond shared between the two celebrated figures. Their friendship, rooted in their shared commitment to social causes, was characterized by mutual admiration and respect. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The black leather Gyro Balanced Everlast 4200 series Speed Bag, designed for speed and precision, is often likened to the \"Chevrolet\" of speed bags. Its iconic status is further elevated by its association with illustrious owners and its storied history of passing through the hands of greatness. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Muhammad Ali once said, “Friendship is the hardest thing in the world to explain. It's not something you learn in school. But if you haven't learned the meaning of friendship, you really haven't learned anything.” Elton John, in turn, fondly remarked on Ali as “A kind, special man. I treasure my moments spent with him.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Both individuals shared a profound dedication to social change, as evidenced by Elton John’s poignant performance at Celebrity Fight Night to benefit the Muhammad Ali Parkinson's Center. Their heartfelt exchange of gifts further highlights the depth of their bond: from a personalized copy of Elton John’s 1997 Mercury Records compact disc single, adorned with a message of admiration to “the Greatest of All Time” from John, to this cherished punching bag from Ali. These gestures serve as enduring testaments to the enduring impact of their friendship. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1990 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 10 1\/2\" high x 3 1\/2\" diameter","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44028164669575,"sku":"31-8868","price":38500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8868_1_3cd6dba9-a8a4-49a9-8e82-ed63a3aa13ec.png?v=1778793777"},{"product_id":"french-empire-troubadour-mantel-clock","title":"French Empire Troubadour Mantel Clock","description":"This resplendent French Empire gilt bronze mantel clock features an extraordinarily detailed scene of a singing troubadour with his lyre along a rocky river bank. Accompanied by a winged Cupid suspended gracefully in flight and a poetic inscription, this troubadour clock is the essence of Neoclassical refinement that defined the aristocratic tastes of the Empire period. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This clock's exquisite ormolu case evokes the rough-hewn rockery and wave pattern of a babbling brook, placing the troubadour and Cupid in an idyllic pastoral landscape. One of the rock faces is inscribed with a poetic meditation on love in French that translates to: \"In his youth the troubadour \/ Love's sweet song did sing \/ But the practicing of love \/ Adult years did bring!\" Visually striking and thought-provoking, this mantel clock would have served as the utmost expression of Empire luxury and sophistication. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The craftsmanship of this extraordinary clock also sets it apart among these elaborate timepieces. The clock and its case rest on a beautiful Vert de Mer marble base, embellished with a plethora of intricate classical motifs, including additional musical instruments that complement the troubadour's lyre and scrolling garlands. The clock's pendulum is fully functional, and the white enameled dial features Breguet hands and the signature of Le Roy, the Horloger de Madame à Paris, one of the most prestigious French clockmaking firms of the 18th and 19th centuries. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1810 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 17 1\/2\" high x 13 1\/8\" wide x 6 1\/2\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44028029042823,"sku":"31-8655","price":28500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8655_1.png?v=1774961222"},{"product_id":"untitled-spin-painting-by-damien-hirst","title":"Untitled Spin Painting by Damien Hirst","description":"Damien Hirst\u003cbr\u003e b. 1965 | British \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eUntitled, Spin Painting\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Household gloss on canvas \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Damien Hirst has stunned art audiences globally since his arrival on the scene in the late 1980s. His thought-provoking works have made him one of the most famous living artists of all time, and his effervescent spin paintings are among the most coveted. The present work is an exceptional example from the spin series that exudes the signature energy and vibrancy of Hirst’s spinning compositions.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Coveted for their monumental visual impact, Hirst’s spin paintings embody a tongue-in-cheek attitude toward the tradition of art history, which places a reverent emphasis on the hand of the painter. The sunburst-like splashes of lime green, red, yellow, orange and blue in this painting were made by dripping paint onto the surface of a motorized canvas. The result is a striking surge of bright, primary color that has been liberated from the artist’s hand to take on its purest form. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Hirst created his first revolutionary spin painting in 1993 while dressed as a clown at a street fair, emphasizing his intention to foreground play and wonder in this series. Inspired by a popular British children’s TV show called Blue Peter, Hirst himself confirmed the role of humor in this work: “I got my idea for the spin paintings from an episode in the 1970s… I remember thinking, that’s fun, whereas art is something more serious… I just thought, why does it have to be like that?” The spin paintings, with their whimsical bursts of color, have become a hallmark of Hirst’s renowned practice, contrasting with the neatness of his spot paintings and the darker themes of his formaldehyde and butterfly works. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Hirst remains one of the most in-demand artists on the contemporary art market, with both museums and private collectors competing for his works. In September 2008, a Sotheby's auction of Hirst's work raised $198 million dollars—ten times higher than any single artist's sale at Sotheby's—and his spin paintings alone have fetched over $1 million at auction. This bold spin painting offers the rare opportunity to own a work by one of art history's greatest renegades. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This work is accompanied by a letter from the Hirst Authentication Committee and will be included in the forthcoming catalogue raisonné.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Painted 2010 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Canvas: 47 1\/2\" high x 47 1\/2\" wide (120.65 x 120.65 cm)\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 50 1\/2\" high x 50 1\/2\" wide x 1 1\/2\" deep (128.27 x 128.27 x 3.81 cm) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Private Collection, acquired directly from the artist\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44024388026503,"sku":"31-8913","price":248500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8913_1.png?v=1774961089"},{"product_id":"sir-winston-churchill-bronze-by-ivor-roberts-jones","title":"Sir Winston Churchill Bronze by Ivor Roberts-Jones","description":"Ivor Roberts-Jones\u003cbr\u003e 1913-1996 | British \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eSir Winston Churchill\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Numbered “132” (on base)\u003cbr\u003e Bronze with a brown patina on a stone base \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e “My dear friends, this is your hour.” These were Winston Churchill’s words as he spoke on the evening of the Allied victory in Europe, and so ended the Second World War. A man of undeniable strength and resilience, Winston Churchill stands as one of the greatest leaders of the modern world. This important bronze masterfully captures the man’s irrepressible air of determination and indomitable character. Crafted by Ivor Roberts-Jones, the sculpture is an edition of the original maquette for the large-scale monument of the prime minister found in Parliament Square. One of England's most recognizable public monuments, it stands as a magnificent tribute to one of the greatest wartime heroes in history. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Roberts-Jones crafted the original maquette in 1971, and it was from this preliminary model that he created his monumental bronze. Following the monument's unveiling, the sculpture was so popular that a series of cast versions of the maquette was created. These were subsequently offered exclusively to Roberts-Jones' clients and the original subscribers to Churchill’s recently published Collected Works. This exceptional example is numbered 132 conceived as an edition of 500 that were cast by Meridian Bronze Foundry. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e It was in 1967, two years after Churchill's death, that the commemorative sculpture of Churchill was first envisioned, and it was decided that Parliament Square was the most appropriate area. In fact, Churchill himself had suggested the location before his death. Eight sculptors were invited to submit designs and compete for the high-profile commission. Roberts-Jones’s maquette was shortlisted, and after a few minor design changes, he was officially awarded the commission in March 1971. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Ivor Roberts-Jones rose to prominence in 1961 thanks to an influential commission from Lord Beaverbrook for a bust of the British playwright Somerset Maugham. He earned his first full-scale commission in 1964 for a sculpture of the British painter Augustus John. After its completion in 1967, Roberts-Jones was elected as an associate of the Royal Academy. He became a full member in 1973, following the completion of his Churchill monument. This bronze is an extraordinary symbol of the sculptor's single greatest achievement. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1971 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 9 3\/4\" wide x 7 1\/4\" deep x 20\" high \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Literature:\u003cbr\u003e Peter Cannon-Brookes, \u003cem\u003eIvor Roberts-Jones: The Journey to Harlech\u003c\/em\u003e, London: Trefoli Books, 1983, pp. 51-59 (another cast illustrated). \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Private Collection, Pennsylvania\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44027721580679,"sku":"31-9069","price":275000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-9069_1_472ee2bd-0175-4118-ab09-1515faed081a.png?v=1774966820"},{"product_id":"giuliano-renaissance-revival-amethyst-necklace","title":"Giuliano Renaissance Revival Amethyst Necklace","description":"This magnificent Renaissance Revival necklace is a masterpiece by the renowned Giuliano firm. Beautifully crafted with black and white enamel foliate links, 18K yellow gold and 15 royal purple oval amethysts totaling 49.00 carats, this stunning necklace from the revered designer perfectly evokes the royalty and splendor of a bygone era. Still in pristine condition and complete with its original fitted box, this extraordinary treasure encapsulates Giuliano's unique genius. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Carlo Giuliano (1831-1895) was a legendary Italian goldsmith renowned for his exquisite revivalist jewelry designs such as this one. When he retired in 1876, his two sons, Carlo and Arthur, took over his London firm and continued his unforgettable legacy into the 20th century. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1900 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 14 1\/2\" length","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44027729805447,"sku":"32-0679","price":64500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-0679_1.png?v=1774964976"},{"product_id":"pair-of-minton-exhibition-vases","title":"Pair of Minton Exhibition Vases","description":"Pair of World's Exhibition Vases\u003cbr\u003e Minton\u003cbr\u003e Dated 1876 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This extraordinary pair of Minton vases represents the pinnacle of 19th-century British ceramic artistry, created in 1876 likely for the 1876 Philadelphia World's Fair, and shown again in the 1878 Paris Universal Exposition—two of history's most significant international showcases. Documented with the exhibition number \"1744\" in Minton's official exhibition logbooks, these monumental vases exemplify the technical virtuosity and artistic brilliance that established Minton as a global leader in ceramic production. The exceptional provenance is further enhanced by their inclusion in the renowned Al-Tajir collection, assembled by Mohammed Mehdi Al-Tajir, former UAE Ambassador to the United Kingdom and once rumored to be the world's wealthiest individual. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The vases showcase masterful hand-painted floral decoration against a sumptuous black ground, demonstrating exceptional artistry and sophisticated composition. Their imposing form is enhanced by elegantly gilded twin handles and decorative bands that reflect superior craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. The design brilliantly integrates Japanese-inspired aesthetics within a classical Western form, perfectly capturing the cosmopolitan sensibilities of the late 19th century and reflecting the period's fascination with cross-cultural artistic exchange. Each vase retains its original ebonized wooden plinth, completing the presentation as it would have appeared to the 13 million visitors who attended the Paris Exposition. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Each painted scene is signed ‘W. Mussill’ to the lower edge. Originally from Austria, Mussill studied painting in Paris, coming to work for Minton in the 1870s after initially painting for the Sèvres manufactory. He specialised in large natural compositions like this pair, always painting in a distinctive free style with heavy use of impasto. He frequently executed special commissions for royalty. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Minton's rise to prominence began with their establishment in 1793, but it was their revolutionary ceramic techniques displayed at the 1851 Great Exhibition in London that catapulted them to international recognition. Queen Victoria herself purchased Minton pieces, declaring them to be \"in the best taste,\" providing royal endorsement that solidified the firm's reputation. By the 1870s, Minton had perfected the creation of exhibition-quality pieces specifically designed to showcase British supremacy in the decorative arts. World's Fairs represented the ultimate platform for artistic competition between nations, and Minton consistently produced works of exceptional quality to maintain Britain's cultural and industrial standing on the global stage. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The underside of each vase is stamped with ‘MINTONS’, the date cypher for 1876, the inventory number 1744 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 40\" high x 26 1\/4\" wide x 20 1\/2\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43024719085703,"sku":"32-0440","price":168500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-0440_1_7aea333a-fd11-465d-92b5-8f9d4c3709eb.png?v=1754601903"},{"product_id":"english-rose-window-skeleton-clock-by-evans-of-handsworth","title":"English Rose Window Skeleton Clock by Evans of Handsworth","description":"English Rose Window Skeleton Clock\u003cbr\u003e Evans of Handsworth\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1885 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This exceptional skeleton clock transforms the grandeur of Notre-Dame Cathedral's rose window into a functioning horological masterpiece. Created by the celebrated firm Evans of Handsworth during the height of Victorian clockmaking excellence, this timepiece represents the pinnacle of 19th-century English mechanical artistry. The 8-day, 2-train fusee movement strikes on the hour and half-hour, while the intricate pierced dial mimics the Gothic style of the Cathedral's famed stained glass. Each brass spoke and arch has been meticulously pierced and finished, revealing the complex fusee movement beneath while maintaining the clock's architectural inspiration. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Evans of Handsworth established themselves as premier manufacturers of skeleton clocks during the mid-19th century, earning recognition for producing some of the most technically sophisticated and visually striking timepieces of the era. Operating from their Birmingham workshop, the firm specialized in complex movements housed within architecturally inspired frames that appealed to Victorian fascination with both Gothic Revival aesthetics and mechanical innovation. The clock was retailed by Louis B. Twells of Ashbourne. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 19\" high x 14 3\/4\" wide x 8\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43792975626375,"sku":"32-1143","price":34500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1143_1_f27f97ff-5e34-4526-9f71-3f3e89ee4ab4.png?v=1769801054"},{"product_id":"yellow-sapphire-mesh-bracelet-66-24-carats","title":"Yellow Sapphire Mesh Bracelet, 66.24 Carats","description":"This breathtaking mesh bracelet showcases a remarkable 66.24 carats of vivid natural yellow sapphires. Pairing any two yellow sapphires is an impressive feat, given their wide color spectrum, but perfectly matching over 480 of the finest examples is truly extraordinary. Expertly crafted in 18K gold, the mesh setting also drapes like silk across the wrist for unmatched wearability and elegance. Bursting with the radiance of sunshine, this exceptional bracelet shimmers from every angle. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Length: 6 5\/8\" \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/library.rauantiques.com\/Report_32-1198.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDownload the Report\u003c\/a\u003e","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43875985424519,"sku":"32-1198","price":148500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1198_1.png?v=1772378043"},{"product_id":"oscar-heyman-gemstone-american-flag-brooch","title":"Oscar Heyman Gemstone American Flag Brooch","description":"Celebrate American patriotism with this dynamic flag brooch by the renowned jeweler Oscar Heyman. The design depicts an undulating flag, moving in waves to create a sense of motion and vitality. The pin is set with 27 round diamonds totaling 0.20 carat, 36 square rubies totaling 0.98 carat and 8 square sapphires totaling 0.76 carat. This iconic work reflects Oscar Heyman’s exceptional artistry and craftsmanship, showcasing the enduring beauty of red, white and blue gemstones. Set in platinum. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed \"OHB\" \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 1 1\/8\" length x 7\/8\" width","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43875933257863,"sku":"32-1192","price":24500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1192_1_012fcdac-1abf-4423-917e-454dbee5343e.png?v=1772367402"},{"product_id":"louis-comfort-tiffany-jade-ring-7-45-carats","title":"Louis Comfort Tiffany Jade Ring, 7.45 Carats","description":"This exceptional ring showcases Louis Comfort Tiffany's mastery of colored gemstones and enameling techniques that defined his revolutionary approach to American Art Nouveau jewelry. The substantial jade cabochon of approximately 7.45 carats displays a vibrant green hue that exemplifies Tiffany's commitment to color and artistic expression. The jade is surrounded by bands of blue and green enamel work, creating a striking geometric pattern reminiscent of ancient motifs. The accompanying AGL report confirms the jade as Type A. Set in 14K yellow gold. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Louis Comfort Tiffany became art director of Tiffany \u0026amp; Co. upon his father's death in 1902, establishing the Artistic Jewelry department and introducing his distinctly American design sensibility to the renowned firm. His jewelry designs debuted officially at the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair, featuring organic motifs that reflected his background as a painter and his expertise with enameling techniques developed through his stained glass work. Tiffany's innovative use of semi-precious stones with enamel and his commitment to handcraftsmanship elevated his jewelry to the status of art objects rather than mere accessories. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1905 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/library.rauantiques.com\/Report_32-1467.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDownload the Certificate\u003c\/a\u003e","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44590059225223,"sku":"32-1467","price":34500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1467_1_4a70d8d4-24ef-461a-8370-20921cdc3965.png?v=1778599320"},{"product_id":"tiffany-studios-ruffled-rim-floriform-glass-vase","title":"Tiffany Studios Ruffled Rim Floriform Glass Vase","description":"Ruffled Rim Floriform Glass Vase\u003cbr\u003e Tiffany Studios\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1900 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A beautifully hued floriform vase by Tiffany Studios, this exquisite piece exemplifies the innovative genius of Louis Comfort Tiffany and his revolutionary Favrile glass technique. Created circa 1900, this vase belongs to the earliest and most sought-after examples of Tiffany's flower form creations, which emerged around 1894 as among the studio's most celebrated works. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The vase captures the organic beauty of a blooming flower with remarkable naturalism. Its rippling upper edge in luminous cream tones reveals glimpses of golden hues within, while the body showcases a gradient of warm amber and coral shades enriched with subtle iridescence. The slender stem transitions through vibrant Kelly green, culminating in an elegantly undulating base that features gossamer striations of green, gold and pale tones. Each element demonstrates the technical mastery of Favrile glass, where metallic salts are incorporated during production to create lustrous, opalescent effects that seem to glow from within. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Louis Comfort Tiffany established Tiffany Glass and Decorating Company in 1892, which became Tiffany Studios in 1902. His development of Favrile glass—patented in 1894—revolutionized American decorative arts and positioned him as one of the foremost artists of the Art Nouveau movement. Examples of Tiffany's flower form vases are held in prestigious collections, including the Chrysler Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed and numbered \"L.C.T. N5204\" \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 15\" high x 5\" diameter \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Literature:\u003cbr\u003e A similar vase is pictured in \u003cem\u003eThe Tiffany Collection of the Chrysler Museum at Norfolk\u003c\/em\u003e, by Paul E. Doros, Richmond, VA: W. M. Brown \u0026amp; Son, Inc., 1978, cat. no. 27","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44422860963975,"sku":"32-1619","price":22850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1619_1.png?v=1775589755"},{"product_id":"tiffany-studios-millefiore-glass-lantern-from-louis-c-tiffanys-comfort-lodge","title":"Tiffany Studios Millefiore Glass Lantern from Louis C. Tiffany's Comfort Lodge","description":"Millefiore Glass Lantern from Louis C. Tiffany's Comfort Lodge\u003cbr\u003e Tiffany Studios\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1900 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This stunning hanging lamp was created by the iconic Tiffany Studios and belonged to the personal collection of the artistic visionary Louis Comfort Tiffany. In addition to his many artistic talents, Tiffany was also a gifted interior decorator who selected only the most remarkable objects for his many residences. This ethereal hanging lantern was prominently displayed in his grand Miami home, known as Comfort Lodge. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A masterpiece of delicate florals and luminous color, this blown-glass lantern embodies the height of Tiffany's artistic achievements. Soft white nasturtium flowers dance across a flurry of bright green lily pads, capturing the organic beauty of nature for which Tiffany was most celebrated. The center of each flower contains a distinctive \"millefiore\" detail, a complex technique that translates to \"thousand flowers\" for the intricate floral shape it creates. Tiffany masterfully fused this method with his signature iridescence to create this magnificent design. Not only did this lantern hang in Louis Comfort Tiffany's Miami home, but a very similar design also adorned the main entrance to his New York mansion, Laurelton Hall, underscoring Tiffany's personal affection for this unique design. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Louis Comfort Tiffany’s Comfort Lodge was built on Miami’s “Millionaire Row” in the 1920s as his winter estate. The home’s distinctive octagonal shape, disappearing walls and windows, and cypress tree supports attracted much attention at the time, and local newspapers reported that the house cost Tiffany an astonishing $40,000—at a time when the average home cost $4,000. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Tiffany frequented Comfort Lodge until his death in 1933, and the handlers of his estate sold the home and all of its contents to a businessman named David Scobie in 1935. Mr. Scobie gifted some of Tiffany’s belongings left in the house—including this lantern—to his business associate and his family, the Martins, who kept these items in their family collection in Florida for decades. This lamp stands as both a testament to Tiffany Studios’ magnificent craftsmanship and to the unparalleled vision of Louis Comfort Tiffany. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Shade marked \"LCT\" \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 31 1\/4\" high x 11 1\/2\" diameter \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany, Comfort Lodge, Miami\u003cbr\u003e Private Collection, Florida, acquired c. 1935\u003cbr\u003e Private Collection, Colorado\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43363622617223,"sku":"32-1414","price":138500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1414_1.png?v=1762001121"},{"product_id":"raoul-dufy-s-artist-easel","title":"Raoul Dufy’s Artist Easel","description":"This remarkable easel offers a direct and authenticated connection to Raoul Dufy, one of France’s most celebrated modern painters. Formerly housed in his Paris studio, it was retained by Edouard Gaffié—the son of Henri Gaffié, executor of Dufy’s estate—who certified that the easel was removed from the artist’s workshop following his death. Tangible relics of an artist’s working life are exceptionally rare, and this example stands as one of the most compelling surviving artifacts linked to this important visionary of French modern art. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Constructed of beechwood, the easel displays the physical history of its use, including scattered traces of pigment that recall the painter’s characteristic palette. Its robust vertical frame, wheeled base and adjustable support reflect the practical demands of Dufy's works, whether large scale or small. The surface, worn and marked through years of creative labor, preserves the intimate environment in which Dufy’s vibrant scenes of regattas, orchestras and city boulevards took shape. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A central figure of early twentieth-century French art, Raoul Dufy moved fluidly through Fauvism and modern decorative design. Born in Le Havre in 1877, he forged a visual language defined by radiance and rhythmic line. His work across painting, textiles, stage design and mural commissions—including major projects for the Comédie-Française and the 1937 Exposition Internationale—distinguished him as one of the era’s most versatile artists. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1900 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 89\" high x 29 1\/2\" wide x 33 1\/2\" deep \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e From the studio of Raoul Dufy, Paris\u003cbr\u003e Removed and retained by Edouard Gaffié, son of Henri Gaffié, executor of the artist’s estate\u003cbr\u003e By descent within the Gaffié family\u003cbr\u003e Private collection, France\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44540181020807,"sku":"32-1353","price":88500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1353_1_bd870f1c-07c9-4636-81d4-84fd2161b962.png?v=1777554327"},{"product_id":"marcus-co-art-deco-cloisonne-enamel-desk-clock","title":"Marcus \u0026 Co. Art Deco Cloisonné Enamel Desk Clock","description":"Art Deco Cloisonné Enamel Desk Clock\u003cbr\u003e Case: Attributed to Marcus \u0026amp; Co.\u003cbr\u003e Movement: Mathey-Tissot\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1930 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This exceptionally rare Art Deco desk clock represents the pinnacle of early 20th-century luxury, attributed to the renowned American firm Marcus \u0026amp; Co. Known for their elaborate handmade cases and exceptional artistry, Marcus \u0026amp; Co. conceived a richly layered design that combines hardstone, coral, lacquer, cloisonné enamel, diamonds and platinum with striking motifs inspired by the refined traditions of Chinese artistry. Its 8-day going movement was supplied by the prestigious Swiss firm Mathey-Tissot, whose high-grade mechanisms were favored by leading luxury houses. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The clock’s composition is extraordinary. A scalloped lapis lazuli pedestal supports two fluted coral columns that frame a black Chinese lacquer rectangle accented in vivid red. The dial is rendered in cloisonné enamel, depicting a Chinese landscape with a river flowing through mountains, blossoms in the foreground and a traditional Chinese junk gliding across still waters. Diamond-set platinum Chinese numerals and hands elevate the dial, while the caseback echoes the same landscape in cloisonné enamel. Cabochon good-luck stones set atop hardstone mounts complete the design. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Marcus \u0026amp; Co. was established by Herman Marcus after immigrating to the United States from Germany around 1850. Having first worked at Tiffany \u0026amp; Co., Marcus later founded his own firm with his sons William and George in 1892. The company became celebrated for its handcrafted creations of exceptional quality, catering to an elite clientele and producing some of the finest American jewelry and objets d’art of the period. Their partnership with Mathey-Tissot—one of Switzerland’s premier makers of high-grade movements—ensured that their clocks combined masterful design with mechanical excellence. The serene Chinese landscape depicted here embodies traditional ideals of strength, peace and good fortune, harmonizing perfectly with the artistry that defines Marcus \u0026amp; Co.'s legacy. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Movement signed \"E. Mathey-Tissot \u0026amp; Co.\" and numbered 7244 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 4 1\/4\" high x 3 1\/8\" wide x 2 1\/8\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44044956008583,"sku":"32-2003","price":54500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2003_1_d66397ad-2c0f-4230-8933-1b40264bc05b.png?v=1774964734"},{"product_id":"victorian-jockey-scale-1","title":"Victorian Jockey Scale","description":"Jockey Scale\u003cbr\u003e Late 19th Century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This Victorian jockey scale is an iconic piece of horse racing history. These handsome scales were used at the tracks to determine the jockey’s weight before a big race. This was done to prevent jockeys from being lighter than the rules regulated, since it would give them and their horse the utmost advantage over their competitors. Crafted of oak and intricately carved with floral motifs, this example features a tufted leather seat and a beautifully crafted, built-in brass scale. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The scale retains its original brass weights, each representing a certain number of stones, the British unit of weight measurement. The jockey would sit in the seat and the brass weights would be placed in the pan until nearly balanced. To refine the measurement, the slide would be placed within the notches along the main scale arm until perfectly balanced, and the corresponding measurement would provide the jockey's weight. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 36 1\/2\" high x 33 1\/2\" wide x 19 1\/2\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44028172697735,"sku":"32-1788","price":34500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1788_1.png?v=1774964694"},{"product_id":"18th-century-german-strongbox","title":"18th-Century German Strongbox","description":"German Strongbox\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1750 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This rare German strongbox stands as an exceptional testament to 18th-century ingenuity, uniting advanced security with refined ornamentation. Constructed from formidable wrought iron, the chest is adorned with scrolling and foliate decorations along with lion and crown motifs that underscore its commanding presence. A masterfully concealed keyhole lies hidden beneath the lion on the lid, revealed only with a discreet pick, while a false keyhole misdirects the untrained eye. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Designed for both beauty and impenetrability, the strongbox opens to display its complex internal mechanism. The underside of the lid reveals this intricate system, an elegant mechanical marvel that once safeguarded a ship’s most valuable possessions. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Often referred to as an “Armada chest,” this type of strongbox was originally produced in southern Germany, particularly in Nuremberg. Though long misattributed as Spanish due to their association with maritime trade, these chests were typically bolted to a ship’s deck or stored in a secure cabin to protect gold, jewels and vital documents during travel. They embody the era’s heightened demand for portable yet highly secure storage during a time of expanding global commerce. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e On base: 25 1\/2\" high x 28 1\/2\" wide x 21\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44568167809159,"sku":"32-1378","price":64500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1378_1_d35cb680-6657-4cc1-a5c4-9b9ca02f64ba.png?v=1778095306"},{"product_id":"silver-ship-s-bell-for-sir-william-bentley-purchase-of-operation-mincemeat","title":"Silver Ship’s Bell for Sir William Bentley Purchase of Operation Mincemeat","description":"Silver Ship’s Bell\u003cbr\u003e Presented to Sir William Bentley Purchase\u003cbr\u003e Bell made in 1944, presented in 1958 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This remarkable artifact of Second World War history is the silver ship’s bell presented to Sir William Bentley Purchase, the British coroner who played a pivotal role in Operation Mincemeat, one of the most effective intelligence deceptions of the conflict. Commissioned during wartime by the Royal Navy, the bell stands as a rare testament to an operation that altered the course of the Mediterranean campaign by diverting German forces away from Sicily. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Purchase, coroner to the Royal Household, was discreetly called upon by Naval Intelligence in early 1943 to assist in an unprecedented deception. His task was to locate a recently deceased individual whose death would raise no suspicion and whose physical characteristics aligned with those of a staff officer. The body he selected became “Acting Major William Martin,” the fictitious Royal Marines officer, whose cleverly forged documents convinced German intelligence that the materials he carried were genuine. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The selection of the body was no simple task. Previous wartime attempts to use disguised corpses had heightened suspicion, and Naval Intelligence required someone recently deceased, with no visible cause of death, whose passing would not prompt inquiries. On January 28, 1943, Purchase located the ideal candidate: Glyndwr Michael, an unhoused man who died after ingesting rat poison and who was never reported missing. His slight build also suited the profile of a staff officer, and the poison left no trace after what appeared to be several days at sea. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Intelligence officers then constructed a complete identity for “Acting Major William Martin,” dressing the body in battledress and equipping it with convincing personal effects: a photograph of a fictional fiancée, an engagement ring receipt, a family letter and an overdraft notice. Most important were the forged documents outlining Allied plans. The deception worked precisely as intended. German units shifted to Greece and Sardinia, leaving Sicily—the Allies’ actual target—comparatively unprotected. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This silver ship’s bell, created by the Goldsmiths \u0026amp; Silversmiths Company, was manufactured in 1944, at a moment when silver production was tightly restricted to official commissions. As a result, any example of silver from this period is exceptionally scarce. Purchase’s role in Operation Mincemeat remained unacknowledged for years, and this bell—commissioned to honor his wartime service and presented upon his knighthood in 1958—stands as the Royal Navy’s formal tribute to his contribution. The bell is engraved: “Sir William Bentley Purchase C.B.E., M.C., with thanks from the supply officers of the Royal Navy 1920 to 1958.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 7 3\/4\" high x 7\" diameter","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43683098722439,"sku":"32-2049","price":58500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2049_1_b6f2a9af-04f3-4549-8d1a-90424f288a4a.png?v=1767185832"},{"product_id":"vase-anemones-et-citrons-draperie-by-louis-valtat","title":"Vase anémones et citrons, draperie by Louis Valtat","description":"Louis Valtat\u003cbr\u003e 1869-1952 | French \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eVase anémones et citrons, draperie\u003cbr\u003e (Vase with Anemones and Lemons, Drapery)\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed \"L. Valtat\" (lower left)\u003cbr\u003e Oil on canvas \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Extraordinarily vibrant, this magnificent still life is an exceptional example of Louis Valtat's mesmerizing style. Valtat was celebrated for his refreshing take on this traditional genre, and his iconic depictions of flowers are among his most coveted works. Here, a bouquet springs to life in jewel-toned brilliance, with its blooms marvelously echoed in the drapery's elaborate pattern. Reminiscent in its boldness to the works of Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne, \u003cem\u003eVase anémones et citrons, draperie\u003c\/em\u003e displays the artist's virtuoso and visionary Post-Impressionist style. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Born in Normandy in 1869, Valtat enrolled at the École des Beaux-Arts at the age of 17, where he studied under the great French figure painters Gustave Boulanger and Jules Lefebvre. There, he began his association with several artists who would influence the trajectory of his career, including Henri Matisse, Édouard Vuillard, Pierre Bonnard, Paul Signac and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, with whom he remained lifelong friends. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Renoir introduced Valtat’s works to Ambroise Vollard, the renowned art dealer. Vollard identified Valtat as one of the most exciting painters working in Paris at the turn of the 20th century. On Renoir’s advice, Vollard made an agreement with Valtat to purchase almost all of the artist’s work for the first decade of the 20th century (1902 – 1912), becoming his dealer and agent. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The relationship was a fruitful one; Vollard went on to organize Valtat’s first solo exhibition at his gallery and submitted Valtat’s works to other exhibitions in Paris. Throughout his career, the artist remained true to his unique style. He was never completely associated with a particular art movement, but is remembered for his crucial influence on early Fauvism. Today, similar works by Valtat are found in important collections around the world, including the Art Institute of Chicago, the Musée d'Orsay and many others. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Painted 1934 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Canvas: 25\" high x 31\" wide (63.50 x 78.74 cm)\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 35\" high x 41\" wide x 3 1\/2\" deep (88.90 x 104.14 x 8.89 cm) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Private Collection, New York\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Literature:\u003cbr\u003e Jean Valtat, \u003cem\u003eLouis Valtat: Catalogue de l'Oeuvre Peint, 1869-1952\u003c\/em\u003e, vol. I, Paris, 1977, no. 2332, p. 260 (illustrated)","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43939134210183,"sku":"32-2007","price":188500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2007_1_f7452003-7da8-4679-8236-918ebd2d4853.png?v=1781306491"},{"product_id":"grainstacks-in-the-plains-of-ajoux-giverny-by-theodore-earl-butler","title":"Grainstacks in the Plains of Ajoux, Giverny by Theodore Earl Butler","description":"Theodore Earl Butler\u003cbr\u003e 1861-1936 | American \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eGrainstacks in the Plains of Ajoux, Giverny\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Oil on canvas \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Theodore Earl Butler was one of the leading American Impressionists, known for his vibrant landscapes that displayed his virtuosity with color, light and texture. This stunning canvas, entitled \u003cem\u003eGrainstacks in the Plains of Ajoux, Giverny\u003c\/em\u003e, is quintessential Butler, and it also pays homage to his most important mentor, Claude Monet. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Butler was one of the only Americans that Monet allowed into his inner circle in Giverny, and the two artists frequently painted alongside each other. This work embodies Butler's profound admiration for Monet, both in its extraordinary atmospheric effects and in its subject of the haystack—one of Monet's most iconic motifs. An explosion of electric color and light, the painting perfectly blends Butler's Impressionist roots with a brilliant palette that is distinctly his own. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Born in Columbus, Ohio, in 1861, Butler moved to New York in 1882 to study at the Art Students League under several major American artists, including William Merritt Chase. Within three years, the young artist had moved to Paris, receiving an honorable mention at the Salon of 1888. This would prove to be a fateful year for Butler, when he also met and befriended Claude Monet and moved to Giverny to join the thriving artist community there. He eventually became Monet's son-in-law, marrying his stepdaughter, Suzanne Hoschedé in 1892. Butler would briefly return to the United States between 1913 and 1921, creating important murals and participating in major exhibitions such as the Armory Show, and then return to Giverny until his death in 1936. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This work will be included in Patrick Bertrand's forthcoming catalogue raisonné on the artist. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1897 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Canvas: 20 5\/8\" high x 28 1\/8\" wide (52.39 x 71.44 cm)\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 29\" high x 36 1\/2\" wide x 2 3\/4\" deep (73.66 x 92.71 x 6.99 cm) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e The artist\u003cbr\u003e Estate of the above\u003cbr\u003e By descent through the artist's family\u003cbr\u003e Patrick Bertrand, Oakland, California, acquired from the above, 1997\u003cbr\u003e Private Collection, 1999\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44024810537095,"sku":"32-1959","price":78500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1959_1.png?v=1774964600"},{"product_id":"silver-gilt-tea-fountain-by-odiot","title":"Silver Gilt Tea Fountain by Odiot","description":"Silver-Gilt Tea Fountain\u003cbr\u003e Maison Odiot\u003cbr\u003e Late 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Few silversmiths in history rival the prestige of Maison Odiot, and this monumental silver-gilt tea fountain stands among the most ambitious works ever produced by the legendary Parisian firm. Created in the late 19th century, this exceptional \u003cem\u003efontaine à thé\u003c\/em\u003e represents the pinnacle of Odiot’s naturalistic production—so rare and important that closely related examples are held today in the Louvre and the Rijksmuseum, with another variant in the Victoria and Albert Museum. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Executed entirely in sumptuous vermeil, the surface is alive with exquisitely chased foliage in high relief. Flowing branches entwine organically to form both the dramatic arched handle above and the sculptural framework below, transforming the functional object into a tour de force of sculptural design. Every element reflects a reverence for nature rendered through extraordinary technical mastery, a hallmark of Odiot’s most elite commissions. The masterpiece is accompanied by its Mark Willis \u0026amp; Son electroplate burner. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The model, known in Odiot’s archives as the \u003cem\u003efeuillages\u003c\/em\u003e (foliage) pattern, was the most elaborate work within a grand botanical service. Original drawings preserved in the firm’s design albums confirm its status as the centerpiece of the ensemble. An identical example once adorned the House of Savoy at the Quirinal Palace in Rome, while Odiot himself retained another, which he exhibited at the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris and which was later documented by Henri Bouilhet in his definitive study of French silversmithing. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Founded in the late 17th century, Maison Odiot rose to international renown as silversmith to Napoleon Bonaparte and King Louis XVIII. The firm’s creations defined imperial luxury, uniting flawless craftsmanship with inventive design. Objects of this complexity, provenance, and institutional importance are extraordinarily rare, making this tea fountain a museum-caliber survival of France’s golden age of silver. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 20 1\/2\" high x 7 1\/2\" wide x 9\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43924916994183,"sku":"32-1664","price":88500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1664_1.png?v=1772372974"},{"product_id":"palais-royal-mother-of-pearl-and-gilded-brass-game-counters","title":"Palais Royal Mother-of-Pearl and Gilded Brass Game Counters","description":"Palais Royal Mother-of-Pearl and Gilded Brass Game Counters\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1820 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This exceptional set of 19th-century gaming markers from the renowned Palais Royal exemplifies the pinnacle of luxury and refinement in leisure objects of the period. Crafted in mother-of-pearl and gilded brass, the set includes two luxurious counters, 18 disks for gameplay and two delicately carved mother-of-pearl fish—historically a popular motif in gaming. The pieces remain in their original fitted box. Gaming markers of this quality were not mass-produced but carefully crafted to demonstrate both artistry and refinement, making surviving sets exceedingly rare and highly desirable to collectors of decorative arts. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e In original fitted case: 2\" high x 6 3\/4\" wide x 5\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43986891341959,"sku":"32-2055","price":8850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2055_1_e9cd6ef1-fad9-4043-8424-6dda752c9dea.png?v=1780946505"},{"product_id":"a-scout-is-friendly-by-norman-rockwell","title":"A Scout is Friendly by Norman Rockwell","description":"Norman Rockwell\u003cbr\u003e 1894-1978 | American \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eA Scout is Friendly\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed \"Norman Rockwell\" (lower right)\u003cbr\u003e Oil on canvas \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Norman Rockwell captured the heart and soul of America in the 20th century like no other artist. This iconic work, entitled \u003cem\u003eA Scout is Friendly\u003c\/em\u003e, embodies the artist's decades-long connection to the Boy Scouts of America—a relationship that would define some of his most significant images. Rockwell believed the Scouts embodied the nation's highest values, and his narrative depictions of these young men stand among the most profound and coveted images he ever created. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Rockwell created this work for the 1943 Boy Scouts of America calendar produced by Brown \u0026amp; Bigelow. Rather than set in the wilderness, \u003cem\u003eA Scout is Friendly\u003c\/em\u003e shows a helpful Scout fulfilling his duty in an everyday moment. As he guides the elderly couple through a city map, their young grandson looks on in quiet admiration. In quintessential Rockwell fashion, each character comes to life with extraordinarily relatable, human details. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Rockwell’s relationship with the Boy Scouts of America extended for more than six decades, during which his calendar illustrations and contributions to Boys’ Life became visual touchstones for countless American households. Notably, he accepted no royalties for these commissions, assigning all reproduction rights to the organization. It was a gesture that affirmed his deep belief in the Scouts and the virtues they instilled.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Norman Rockwell stands as America's most beloved illustrator, whose work transcended commercial art to become a defining visual narrative of 20th-century American life. His Brown \u0026amp; Bigelow calendar series (1948-1964) ranks alongside his \u003cem\u003eSaturday Evening Post\u003c\/em\u003e covers as works that elevated him from celebrated illustrator to national institution. Rockwell's extraordinary ability to find profound meaning in everyday moments earned him the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1977, the highest civilian honor bestowed upon American citizens. Museums worldwide, including the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, preserve and celebrate his legacy as an artist who documented American values, aspirations and the tender moments that unite us all. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Painted 1943 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Canvas: 32 1\/2\" high x 21 1\/2\" wide (82.55 x 54.61 cm)\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 45 1\/2\" high x 34 1\/2\" wide x 2 1\/2\" deep (115.57 x 87.63 x 6.35 cm) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Collection of the Boy Scouts of America\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Literature:\u003cbr\u003e Boy Scouts of America Calendar, Brown \u0026amp; Bigelow Co., Saint Paul, Minnesota, 1943, n.p., illustrated\u003cbr\u003e W. Hillcourt, \u003cem\u003eNorman Rockwell's World of Scouting\u003c\/em\u003e, New York, 1977, p. 136\u003cbr\u003e M. Moline, \u003cem\u003eNorman Rockwell Encyclopedia\u003c\/em\u003e, Indianapolis, Indiana, 1979, p. 222, fig. 8-22, illustrated\u003cbr\u003e L.N. Moffatt, \u003cem\u003eNorman Rockwell: A Definitive Catalogue\u003c\/em\u003e, Vol. I, Stockbridge, Massachusetts, 1986, pp. 276-77, no. A63, illustrated\u003cbr\u003e J. Csatari, \u003cem\u003eNorman Rockwell's Boy Scouts of America\u003c\/em\u003e, New York, 2009, pp. 42-3, illustrated","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43891945308295,"sku":"32-1958","price":1950000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1958_1.png?v=1772372063"},{"product_id":"egyptian-revival-scarab-brooch","title":"Egyptian Revival Scarab Brooch","description":"This exceptional Egyptian Revival brooch reflects the fascination with ancient Egypt that swept the decorative arts at the end of the 19th century, a wave of “Egyptomania” sparked by major archaeological discoveries. The design centers on a finely carved carnelian scarab, which flips to reveal a detailed figural intaglio. Delicate 18K yellow gold and enamel wings surround the scarab, completing the elegant and evocative composition. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1905","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44034896822407,"sku":"32-2017","price":22850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2017_1.png?v=1774963036"},{"product_id":"femme-au-corsage-blanc-jeanne-samary-by-pierre-auguste-renoir","title":"Femme au corsage blanc, Jeanne Samary by Pierre-Auguste Renoir","description":"Pierre-Auguste Renoir\u003cbr\u003e 1841-1919 | French \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eFemme au corsage blanc, Jeanne Samary\u003cbr\u003e (Woman in a white blouse, Jeanne Samary\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Initialed \"AR\" (lower right)\u003cbr\u003e Pastel on paper \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Among Renoir's most famous works are those that capture the ladies of his inner circle in his signature style. This vibrant pastel from 1879 depicts the young Jeanne Samary, Renoir’s favorite subject and most important muse at the height of his career. Compared to his 4,000 paintings, the artist made exceptionally few pastels—only about 150 total—making this luminous work an extraordinary Renoir rarity. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Samary was one of the most captivating figures of late 19th-century Paris. An iconic actress at the Comédie-Française, her fame rivaled that of the great Sarah Bernhardt. Beginning in 1876, Renoir created dozens of portraits of Samary, and she also appeared in all three of the artist’s most important paintings from this pivotal period—\u003cem\u003eBal du moulin de la Galette\u003c\/em\u003e (1876), \u003cem\u003eLa balançoire\u003c\/em\u003e (1876) and \u003cem\u003eThe Luncheon of the Boating Party\u003c\/em\u003e (1880–81). Renoir’s close friend and biographer, Georges Rivière, noted that “no portrait ever gave Renoir greater satisfaction than the ones he made of Samary.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This magnificent pastel perfectly embodies this bond between Renoir and Samary. Vivid and spontaneous, the work captures an intimate moment, with Samary’s blouse delicately falling over her shoulder. Renoir typically reserved pastel for his portraits of friends and family, as it allowed him to capture their true essence with speed and ease. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The year this pastel was created, 1879, was also one of the most important years of Renoir’s career. He entered the prestigious Salon of 1879, where four of his portraits were accepted, including a full-length masterpiece of Jeanne Samary. This pastel stands as a testament to this pivotal chapter for Renoir, portraying the muse who shaped his groundbreaking vision.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Renoir’s portraits of Jeanne Samary are exceptionally scarce, with most already held in prestigious museum collections, including the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg and the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. Similar pastels of Samary have commanded millions at auction—among some of the highest prices for Renoir’s works on paper. Importantly, the artist’s pastels are getting recent museum attention, with the major 2025-2026 exhibition organized by the Musée d’Orsay and the Morgan Library, \u003cem\u003eRenoir Drawings\u003c\/em\u003e. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This work is accompanied by its certificate of authenticity from the Wildenstein Plattner Institute, and it will be included in their forthcoming digital catalogue raisonné. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Drawn 1879 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rau-sfimages.s3.amazonaws.com\/dossier\/Dossier_32-1821.pdf\" target=\"new\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eView the Dossier\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Paper: 22 1\/4\" high x 14 1\/4\" wide (56.5 x 36.2 cm)\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 36 3\/4\" high x 28 1\/4\" wide x 3\" deep (93.4 x 71.8 x 7.6 cm) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Ambroise Vollard, Paris, acquired from the artist (as of 1907)\u003cbr\u003e Étienne Bignou, Paris (as “Jeanne Samary”)\u003cbr\u003e Lafarge, Paris\u003cbr\u003e Victor Hélin, Paris\u003cbr\u003e Succession Victor Hélin, c. 1945\u003cbr\u003e M. and Mme Schmit, acquired from the above, 2009\u003cbr\u003e Private Collection, Paris\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans ","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44489087746183,"sku":"32-1821","price":585000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-1821_1.png?v=1777552664"},{"product_id":"rhodonite-ring-16-60-carats","title":"Rhodonite Ring, 16.60 Carats","description":"The striking oval rhodonite in this ring weighs 16.60 carats. Revered in ancient Rome for its protective qualities and prized for its use in fine decorative objects, translucent, gem-quality red rhodonite like this elongated example is exceptionally rare. Set in 18K white gold with diamond accents, the ring presents this natural marvel with elegant refinement.","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43888325886087,"sku":"32-2239","price":34500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2239_1_04dbd385-d51d-4f45-a20d-514067255df0.png?v=1772376273"},{"product_id":"the-vendor-of-antiquities-by-ettore-forti","title":"The Vendor of Antiquities by Ettore Forti","description":"Ettore Forti\u003cbr\u003e c. 1850-1940 | Italian \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eThe Vendor of Antiquities\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed \"E. Forti Roma\" (lower right)\u003cbr\u003e Oil on canvas \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This captivating canvas by renowned Italian artist Ettore Forti is a sophisticated meditation on history and imagination, emblematic of the late 19th century’s fascination with the Classical past. Set within a richly appointed Roman interior that opens onto a sunlit street, the composition centers an exchange between a seller of antiquities and his well-dressed patrons. Forti brings the scene to life with theatrical precision, capturing every detail as well as the personalities of his sitters. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Forti was known for his rigorous study of ancient cultures, drawing his inspiration for his architecture, interior decor and sculptural objects from documented Roman wall paintings and public collections. From the intricate mosaic floor to the elegant klismos chair, these rich historical details lend this painting a sense of authenticity and allure, inviting the viewer into the warm atmosphere of this bygone era of antiquity. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The artist also displays his talent for capturing figures with delightful immediacy. The vendor’s animated gesture contrasts with the contemplative pose of the seated woman, whose languid elegance is framed by the austere figure in white standing next to her. By the late 19th century, intimate scenes of ancient Greece and Rome had become especially sought after, reflecting both advances in archaeology and a broader cultural desire to visualize daily life in classical civilizations. Artists like Forti embraced a mode of photographic realism, meticulously researched yet emotionally charged, to present antiquity as idealized and alluring. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Forti was a leading practitioner of classical genre painting who worked primarily in Rome. His works were widely exhibited and collected, appealing to an international audience. Today, his works belong to prestigious museum collections, including the J. Paul Getty Museum, and this particular work once belonged to the great Gianni Versace, who amassed an extraordinary collection of artwork over 20 years before his untimely death in 1997. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Late 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Canvas: 20 1\/2\" high x 32 1\/2\" wide (52.1 x 82.6 cm)\u003cbr\u003e Frame: 29 1\/8\" high x 41\" wide x 2 1\/2\" deep (74 x 104.1 x 6.4 cm) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Sale, Sotheby's London, June 14, 1995, lot 60\u003cbr\u003e Gianni Versace, acquired at the above sale\u003cbr\u003e Sale, Sotheby's New York, April 2005, lot 70\u003cbr\u003e Private collection\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44209687625863,"sku":"32-2124","price":88500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-2124_1.png?v=1774962825"}],"url":"https:\/\/rauantiques.com\/collections\/4-26-treasured-through-time.oembed","provider":"M.S. Rau","version":"1.0","type":"link"}