{"title":"7.26 Masterpieces of Craft","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"john-and-william-cary-table-globes","title":"John and William Cary Table Globes","description":"A beautiful pair of 12-inch terrestrial and celestial table globes by the renowned John and William Cary of London, generally regarded as the greatest British globe makers of the late Georgian period. Beautifully and accurately crafted, these highly detailed maps of the earth and skies would have been indispensable instruments of learning and business in the days of exploration. The terrestrial globe provides the most current geographical information of the time, including facts discovered during expeditions to the North Pole, while the celestial globe provided a timeless map of the heavens, an essential tool in shipping. Set in their Regency-period mahogany stands, each globe has aged to a beautiful patina. John Cary and his brother William collaborated in the late 18th century to create some of the finest globes in the world. Their expert design and craftsmanship soon allowed them to take command of the English globe-producing market.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThe terrestrial globe is inscribed “CARY’S NEW TERRESTRIAL GLOBE, Delineated from the Best Authorities Extant; Exhibiting the Late Discoveries towards the NORTH POLE and every improvement in Geography to the present Time, LONDON; Published G. \u0026amp; J. Cary, St. James Street, March 15th 1821.” The celestial globe is inscribed within a rectangular label, “CARY’S NEW CELESTIAL GLOBE ON WHICH are correctly laid down upwards of 3500 stars, Selected from the most accurate observations, and calculated for the Year 1800, With the exient of each Constellation precisely defined by Mr. Gilpin of the ROYAL SOCIETY\/Made and Sold by J. \u0026amp; W. Cary No. 181 Strand London Jan 1816.”\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nTerrestrial globe: dated 1821\u003cbr\u003e\nCelestial globe: dated 1816, with calculations from 1800\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n16” diameter overall x 18” high\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nThere is commonly a significant difference between the dates of terrestrial and celestial pairings. Globe makers often made celestial models in advance, since the stars and constellations were considered established and unchanging. New lands were constantly being discovered around the world, and terrestrial models were almost always “made to order” to ensure updated accuracy. This distinguished pair represents an exceptionally rare find. A similar celestial globe is featured in Elly Dekker and Peter van der Krogt’s Globes from the Western World.\n\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\nReference:\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eGlobes from the Western World\u003c\/em\u003e, 1993, Elly Dekker and Peter van der Krogt","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41239080534151,"sku":"29-5346","price":88500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/29-5346_1_ec51471e-95a9-4e0d-a5da-05c6cb982b6b.png?v=1712738929"},{"product_id":"hupfeld-phonoliszt-violina-model-b-music-cabinet","title":"Hupfeld Phonoliszt-Violina Model B Music Cabinet","description":"This incredible Hupfeld Phonoliszt-Violina Model B music cabinet is among the rarest and most advanced automatic music players of its time. The remarkable machine, crafted by the renowned Leipzig firm of Ludwig Hupfeld, is one of the most mechanically complex music players ever made, boasting three self-playing violins accompanied by a self-playing piano. Once made to entertain patrons of upscale hotels, restaurants and cafes, these extraordinary machines have become increasingly rare, with only 63 still in existence today. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e A large step above the popular mechanical piano of the day, the Phonoliszt-Violina was expensive to produce and therefore was only available to the most exclusive clientele. The necessity for its expense is evident when considering the astonishing complexity of the instrument. Three violins playing strings tuned to D, A and E are bowed by a circular 1,350-strand horsehair bow cage, while a cross-strung Rönisch pianoforte accompanies the strings. Remarkably, both the piano and the violins are dynamic, allowing for a previously unheard-of range of volume and tone. From the most delicate pianissimo to a crashing fortissimo, the unparalleled instrument has the ability to render musical pieces with all of the skill and vigor of a real musician. Over 900 music rolls were created for the Phonoliszt-Violina over the decades, of which 50 rolls are included with the present machine. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The firm of Ludwig Hupfeld was established in Leipzig in 1892, when Ludwig Hupfeld, an accomplished musician, mechanic and businessman, acquired the musical instrument manufacturers J.M. Grob \u0026amp; Co. The firm quickly rose in popularity as its mechanical instruments grew more and more complex. Products made by the firm included various piano-playing machines and orchestrions. The idea of creating an automatic violin came to Hupfeld in 1900, and by 1907, the firm displayed the \u003cem\u003eKlavier mit Streichton,\u003c\/em\u003e or piano with string tone, at the Leipzig Autumn Trade Fair. At the Brussels World’s Fair of 1910, a Phonoliszt-Violina was received with great acclaim and earned a medal, with renowned violinist Ephrem Zimbalist calling the instrument “the wonder and marvel of our time.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This Violina model is featured on the cover of \u003cem\u003eThe Violin-Playing Machines\u003c\/em\u003e, 2012, by Q. D. Bowers \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1910 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 106” high x 75” wide x 32” deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43057545904263,"sku":"29-9091","price":498500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/29-9091_1_788020aa-bade-48af-99b2-705a0a5f4b82.png?v=1755545090"},{"product_id":"portable-copying-machine-by-james-watt-co","title":"Portable Copying Machine by James Watt \u0026 Co.","description":"Considered the first step into the world of modern photocopying, the copying machine was among the first widely used devices to successfully produce an exact copy of an original written work. Designed and patented in 1780 by one of history’s greatest inventors, James Watt, the copying machine was the only device in the 18th century that was able to duplicate letters; this particular model was also among the first portable copying machines ever made. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e James Watt (1736-1819) is considered one of the greatest inventors of all time. Legendary today for his work on the steam engine, he spent much of his later life devising small inventions such as this. Anecdotally, the idea for the machine was a result of Watt tirelessly copying correspondence between himself and his business partner, the great silversmith Matthew Boulton. The machine itself was ingenious in its simplicity. The letter to be copied was written in a special gelatinous ink and then placed over a piece of tissue paper. Pressure from the roller impressed upon the tissue paper a mirrored replica of the letter, which could then be reversed and read from the opposite side. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Patented in 1780, the device was eagerly sought by important businessmen and statesmen alike. By the end of the first year of production, over 630 machines had been sold, and for the next century, Watt’s machine and the replicas it inspired dominated the copying business. Although many were sold in the 18th century, this is the first working model we have ever seen for sale. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Perhaps the most enthusiastic and well-known user of the machine was George Washington, who utilized this exact version of the copying machine. His device can still be found to this day on display at Mount Vernon. Thomas Jefferson was another avid user, who owned several versions - even one of his own design - and is said to have used it daily. Jefferson extolled the benefits of the copying machine to his friend and eventual presidential successor, James Madison, as well as Charles Willson Peale. One of Jefferson’s machines, a later model, is still held and prominently displayed at his Monticello home. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The present piece is housed in its original mahogany lap desk, which is in and off itself a remarkable work of craftsmanship. Designed for transport, each piece can be dismantled and stored away in its various storage drawers. These compartments also contain writing tools, including an ink bottle and damping box. Designed down to the smallest detail, the full extent of Watt’s genius is evident in this remarkable machine. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Silver oval label impressed “J. Watt \u0026amp; Co. Patent”\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1795 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 6” high x 20 1\/2” wide x 14” deep \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e References:\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eThomas Jefferson and his Copying Machines\u003c\/em\u003e, 1984, by S.A. Bedini, pp. 10-11 \u0026amp; 26-27\u003cbr\u003e “James Watt and his copying machines” in \u003cem\u003eProceedings of the British Association of Paper Historians\u003c\/em\u003e 4th Annual Conference, 1993, R. Hills\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eBefore Photocopying. The Art and History of Mechanical Copying 1780-1793\u003c\/em\u003e, 1999, B. Rhodes and W. Wells Streeter, pp.8-11\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eThe Lunar Men\u003c\/em\u003e, 2002, J. Uglow, pp.306-7\u003cbr\u003e \u003cem\u003eHow James Watt Invented the Copier: Forgotten Inventions of Our Great Scientists\u003c\/em\u003e, 2011, R. Schils, pp. 39-42 \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43692873089159,"sku":"30-6618","price":128500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-6618_1_fce704bf-9b53-4b4f-9e66-7d26b925c669.png?v=1767202061"},{"product_id":"chilean-huaso-spurs","title":"Chilean Huaso Spurs","description":"This rare and authentic pair of Chilean spurs is stunning to behold. Traditionally worn by \u003cem\u003ehuasos,\u003c\/em\u003e or Chilean cowboys, these silvered steel spurs, or \u003cem\u003eespuelas\u003c\/em\u003e, were given by Chile's ambassador to the French ambassador in the late 19th century. Exhibiting exceptional decoration, these spurs are distinguished by the number of spokes they possess, and by the wonderful “singing” sound they produce when spun. Housed in their original presentation case, these intriguing pieces are extraordinary examples of South American artistry. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The Chilean huasos hold a reverenced position in the rich history of the country. Their endurance and expert horsemanship, marked by the signature sideways gallop, has earned the huaso the great respect of his countrymen for years. In fact, huaso dress, which includes a straw hat, or chupalla, a brightly-colored poncho called a chamanto, a short jacket, loose fitting pants, high boots, and for special events, elaborate stirrups and spurs and a red sash worn around the waist, has come represent Chilean culture in many respects. The spurs have especially come to represent Chilean folkloric traditions.   \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1890 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 5” diameter x 9” length","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43316952105095,"sku":"30-1825","price":12500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/30-1825_1.png?v=1762000769"},{"product_id":"regency-mahogany-hunt-table","title":"Regency Mahogany Hunt Table","description":"Perfectly proportioned and beautifully crafted, this rare hunt table is an exceptional example of Regency-period cabinetmaking. Also known as a social table, this horseshoe-shaped furnishing was specially designed for serving beverages during a party or fox hunt.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Crafted of mahogany, it is ingeniously configured to be used in a multitude of fashions. The brass bottle slide at its center is equipped to hold two decanters, and it can be easily moved around the interior curve of the table for serving. The table also features a brass rail that, when hung with a curtain, can serve as either a fire screen or to protect the wall in the case of spills or splashes. If it is used outdoors during a hunt, these bars can be removed to allow a member of the hunt staff to serve the hunters before or after the hunt. Finally, the table can also function as a serving table, as it includes a center leaf that can be installed to create a demi-lune surface.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Such a multi-functional design makes these skillfully crafted tables highly coveted today, though they are only rarely found on the market. To find such an attractive example as this, complete with its original brass hardware, is exceptional. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1820 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 74\" wide x 39\" deep x 29 1\/2\" high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41347056631943,"sku":"31-1433","price":44500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-1433_1_4d6d180d-3d9d-49c2-b2fb-e5880a4e64f6.png?v=1715329749"},{"product_id":"louis-xvi-style-bronze-chenets","title":"Louis XVI-Style Bronze Chenets","description":"Cherubs representing the gods Cupid and Mercury, indicated by their respective bow and winged helmet, sit atop this charming pair of French chenets, or fireplace andirons. Crafted of stunning doré and patinated bronze, these figures display a delightful neoclassical elegance characteristic of Louis XVI design. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Chenets were a staple of any well-appointed home, serving as both decorative and useful objects. They were placed in front of a fireplace to protect priceless rugs and flooring from rolling logs. Only the grandest homes would have had chenets as beautifully designed as these. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Late 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 7” wide x 3 3\/4\" deep x 10 1\/4” high","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43873968947335,"sku":"31-4674","price":22500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-4674_1_edb53188-c43c-4222-8e2e-c5d2971451d8.png?v=1772351414"},{"product_id":"monumental-three-train-bracket-clock-by-j-c-jennens-sons","title":"Monumental Three-Train Bracket Clock by J.C. Jennens \u0026 Sons","description":"This intricately detailed 19th-century bracket clock from famed English firm J.C. Jennens \u0026amp; Sons is monumental in size, likely made for one of the great world exhibitions or perhaps to put in the firm's own store window. The eight-day timepiece has a triple fusee movement with both ten bells and five gongs, and the internal movement weighs an incredible 80 pounds — nearly ten times larger than an average bracket clock. Uniquely, this timepiece is not a pendulum clock and instead utilizes a balance wheel escapement, which is extremely rare for a clock of this size. Every detail of the movement, including the beautifully hand-engraved backplate, demonstrates painstaking attention to detail. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The exterior of the clock adds further visual interest. The lustrous ebonized body is accented by elegant gilt bronze, forming scrolling acanthus leaves, five crowned finials and mask motifs. The clock’s face is intricately detailed with a total of six dials to indicate the time, date, day of the week and month of the year, as well as dials for multiple chime settings. Each bronze dial is encircled and crowned by foliate motifs and cherub faces. Every aspect of this clock displays expert craftsmanship, making this timepiece a visual delight. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Not much is known about John Creed Jennens, the patriarch of the great clockmakers J.C. Jennens \u0026amp; Sons, who founded his company in Birmingham in 1845 before moving to London in 1863. His clocks, however, have left indelible marks on horological history. Derek Roberts, the preeminent English authority on clocks, remarked in his book that a similar bracket clock was \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rauantiques.my.salesforce.com\/sfc\/p\/A0000000JY02\/a\/8X0000001eCL\/SwTrW2yToo4AXnhz2jaOR.dXbejJC2j_g2MC7sFte4E\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ethe largest example he had ever seen\u003c\/a\u003e. Our 59-inch tall clock, not including the base, is an incredible three times larger in total square inches than the largest clock that Derek Roberts had ever seen. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1880 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Clock: 56 3\/4“ high x 38 1\/4” wide x 20 1\/4“ deep Base: 35 1\/4\" high x 39 1\/4\" wide x 22 1\/4\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42264380407943,"sku":"31-5945","price":188500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-5945_1.png?v=1738725492"},{"product_id":"wheellock-rifle-by-marcus-zelner","title":"Wheellock Rifle by Marcus Zelner","description":"This ceremonial firearm crafted by Marcus Zelner Wein, the renowned gunsmith of the Viennese Imperial Court, is truly a masterpiece fit for the highest royal hunting or military honors. Its design follows the favored Viennese crown style, boasting intricate details that depict the splendor of nature. The iron chiseled lockplate showcases a hunting scene and a touching image of a woman with a child feeding a bird. Adding to its opulence, a chiseled gilt brass side plate further enhances the firearm's beauty. The barrel is adorned with a gilt signature and exquisite foliate scrolls, while the walnut mounts feature ornate chiseled gilt brass ornaments. Without a doubt, the stunning firearm is among the greatest in 18th-century firearms craftsmanship. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Marcus Zelner was an Austrian gunmaker born in Salzburg in 1693, belonging to a prominent dynasty of gunmakers. To become a master gunsmith, the gunmakers guild of Vienna required submission of their finest innovation: the improved wheelock firearm produced entirely by the gunmaker’s own hand. Zelner accomplished this feat in 1726. He set up his own workshop and married the daughter of Felix Meier, the most important gunsmith of Viennese courts. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Zelner produced exceptional firearms commissioned by the courts of Vienna and Liechtenstein. One of his earliest and finest preserved wheelock rifles is now on display at Vaduz Castle in the Liechtenstein Collection of Arms, and was exhibited in the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s 1985 exhibition \u003cem\u003eFirearms from the Collections of the Prince of Liechtenstein\u003c\/em\u003e. The matching pair to our rifle, the only known other known model of its kind, resides in the permanent collection of the Medeiros e Almeida Museum in Lisbon, Portugal. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e This wheelock rifle is pictured in Joana Ferreira's \"Mosquetes de roda\" in \u003cem\u003ePeça em destaque\u003c\/em\u003e, published 2022, on page 10. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed \"MARCUS ZELNER IN WIENN\" \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1730-1740 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 8 3\/8\" high x 44 1\/8\" length x 3 1\/8\" deep \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Literature:\u003cbr\u003e Joana Ferreira. “Mosquetes de roda” in \u003cem\u003ePeça em destaque\u003c\/em\u003e, Museu Medeiros e Almeida, Sept. 2022, p.10. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \n","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41790251303047,"sku":"31-6960","price":74500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-6960_1_15dfd447-b036-4203-b9c1-3536c66d19a5.png?v=1728288555"},{"product_id":"russian-imperial-silver-punch-set-from-czar-alexander-iii","title":"Russian Imperial Silver Punch Set from Czar Alexander III","description":"A monumental piece of history, this exquisite silver punch set was made for Czar Alexander III as a gift to British Captain Joseph Wiggins. Heavily decorated with rich engravings and proverbs in old Slavic lettering, this service is a grand symbol of celebration and a testament to the beauty of Russian Imperial silver.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The punch set, a standalone treasure in its own right, was gifted by Czar Alexander III to Captain Wiggins in recognition of his pioneering expedition along the Yenisei River. Driven by a desire to establish a sea route with Siberia, Captain Wiggins’ journey is notable for being the first successful endeavor by a British seaman in 300 years to extend commercial interests with the northern coasts of Russia. Even more notable is the presentation of this elaborate gift by the Russian government to a foreign national, particularly when the British government all but ignored Wiggins' efforts. In fact, the British government refused his modest request for surveying and observational instruments. Even so, the Czar was impressed, and chose to honor Wiggins with this exceptional punch service — as pictured and discussed in Henry Johnson’s book \u003cem\u003eCaptain Joseph Wiggins\u003c\/em\u003e, written in 1907. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The service was commissioned by the Czar from the House of Sazikov, the oldest silversmith and jewelry firm in Russia. Sazikov was established in 1793 by the merchant Pavel Sazikov, and became supplier to the Imperial Court in 1837. The firm, which maintained factories in Moscow and St. Petersburg, became renowned for its high quality silverware, silver sculptures, cloisonné enamels and statuettes with national motifs. The firm exhibited several cups and centerpieces at the Great Exhibition of 1851 in London, and from 1846, held the Imperial Warrant. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The unique charm of this punch service lies not only in its craftsmanship and historical relevance, but also in the inclusion of old drinking proverbs in Slavic. From \"The heart burns at the thought of wine\" to \"Good fellowship is better than wealth,\" these sayings — inscribed on the cups and ladles of the set — add a touch of cultural richness and reflect the convivial spirit of the meeting. Further inscriptions offer credit to Wiggins for his endeavors. The edge of the tray is inscribed by the Russian Naval Ministry and reads: “To Captain Wiggins from the Imperial Russian Naval Ministry. In memory of the voyage in 1893 to the mouth of the river Enisei, jointly with the ships of the Imperial fleet, Lieutenants Ovtsyn, Malygin and Skuratov.” The center of the tray features another laudatory inscription from the Royal Geographic Society: “This salver was presented to Captain Joseph Wiggins, F.R.G.S., Siberian explorer, by the Czar of Russia, 1894, and left by Captain Wiggins to the Royal Geographical Society, England, Sept. 1905.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Hallmarked 1874-75 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 9\" high x 19 7\/8\" diameter on tray \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Czar Alexander III\u003cbr\u003e Private collection of Captain Wiggins\u003cbr\u003e Royal Geographical Society, England\u003cbr\u003e Private collection of Victor Niederhoffer\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans\u003cbr\u003e Private collection, Connecticut\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42703285846151,"sku":"31-8237","price":498000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8237_1_369d07ab-9b38-460d-95f0-920e72eea66e.png?v=1749042704"},{"product_id":"wheel-carved-cameo-glass-vase-by-daum-nancy","title":"Wheel Carved Cameo Glass Vase by Daum Nancy","description":"This rare Daum Nancy vase showcases the superb quality and detail for which the firm's cameo glass is beloved. Vibrant red flowers were acid-etched on the vibrant yellow-orange ground. The imagery was then carefully wheel-carved to create additional texture. Daum artisans were extremely gifted wheel engravers, yet used the method only sparingly, making creations such as this extraordinarily rare. Very few pieces of this quality would have been produced, serving as models for industrial production. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Daum Nancy is considered among the best and most famous French cameo glass producers of the Art Nouveau period, from 1890 to 1920. Initially produced by Auguste and Antonin Daum around 1890, the firm was heavily influenced by nature, which led to the production of many floral and scenic works. Daum glass is highly desirable among collectors today, especially items of such incredible artistry and quality. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Signed “Daum Nancy” in intaglio with the cross of Lorraine \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1900 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 10 1\/2” high x 3\" diameter","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43874919448711,"sku":"31-8339","price":5450.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-8339_1.png?v=1772356648"},{"product_id":"chippendale-style-metamorphic-library-chair","title":"Chippendale-Style Metamorphic Library Chair","description":"This unique Chippendale-style metamorphic chair seamlessly transforms into library steps. Crafted from rich, dark mahogany and featuring exquisite elephant-patterned upholstery, this piece evokes the grandeur associated with campaign furniture. The intricately carved splat back and finely detailed craftsmanship epitomize the superior carving and innovative design for which Chippendale is renowned. With graceful precision, the chair unfolds to reveal functional library steps, allowing a smooth transition from the comfort of reading to the convenience of selecting your next book. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 19th century \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 37\" high x 22 1\/2\" wide x 22 1\/2\" deep\u003cbr\u003e When open: 26 1\/2\" deep","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44037370871943,"sku":"31-9772","price":9850.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/31-9772_1.png?v=1774965341"},{"product_id":"tiffany-studios-counterbalance-desk-lamp","title":"Tiffany Studios Counterbalance Desk Lamp","description":"Counter Balance Desk Lamp\u003cbr\u003e Louis Comfort Tiffany\u003cbr\u003e Circa 1900 \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Designed by the iconic Louis Comfort Tiffany, this exceptional desk lamp is the pinnacle of Art Nouveau design. The original patinated bronze base is one of his rare counterbalance models, which exudes both elegance and brilliant ingenuity. The fixture is perfectly balanced so that the shade's height can be easily adjusted, making this lamp the ideal blend of artistry and functionality. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The magnificent hand-blown Favrile lampshade features Tiffany's famed \u003cem\u003eDamascene Wave\u003c\/em\u003e pattern and the luminous iridescent finish for which the studio was famed. The shade's mesmerizing color palette shifts between golden ambers, soft pinks and much more, making the surface come alive with movement and radiance. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Louis Comfort Tiffany is internationally recognized as a master of the American decorative arts. Considered the driving force behind the Art Nouveau style in America, Tiffany is known best for his striking lamps and stained-glass windows. His discovery of what he called “Favrile” glass (derived from an old English word meaning “handcrafted”) in 1881 catapulted his reputation internationally. By the 1890s, he was the leading art glass producer, serving wealthy New Yorkers and working on commissions for Mark Twain, Cornelius Vanderbilt and the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York. Now, the rarity and elegance of Tiffany’s lamps make them some of the most desired antiques of all time, confirming his legacy as a legendary Art Nouveau visionary. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e The shade is marked \"L.C.T.\" and the base \"Tiffany Studios\/New York\/417\" \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e 15\" high x 12\" wide x 7\" deep \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Provenance:\u003cbr\u003e Private Collection, The Netherlands\u003cbr\u003e M.S. Rau, New Orleans \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Literature:\u003cbr\u003e A. Duncan, \u003cem\u003eTiffany Lamps and Metalware\u003c\/em\u003e, Suffolk, 2007, p. 87, no. 342 (base and shade)","brand":"M.S. Rau","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44581012865159,"sku":"32-0425","price":28500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0083\/2471\/0466\/files\/32-0425_1_5df68e16-7a78-4ed5-af16-40136e691283.png?v=1778347362"}],"url":"https:\/\/rauantiques.com\/collections\/7-26-masterpieces-of-craft.oembed","provider":"M.S. Rau","version":"1.0","type":"link"}