Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Unusual Artifacts: Parasol Fittings, 1900-1910

Parasol Handle
English, 1900-1910
The Victoria & Albert Museum
This gleaming handle is part of a set of parasol fittings which includes a handle of wood and gilt covers for the ends of the ribs which support the parasol’s fabric cover. The handle is fashioned of rock crystal which has been engraved with flowers and set with amethysts in gold collets. It is supported by a neck of gold with translucent purple enamel and an applied frieze of laurel swags and ribbon.


Though I can’t find a picture of it, the parasol is still kept in its original rectangular case of dark green leather that has been lined with cream velvet. On the lid of the case, a gold stamp bears the retailers mark: J.C. VICKERY/ 179, 181 & 183 REGENT ST.W.

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