An unusual G Simpson, London, Treen Container possibly for medical useEnglish, early 19th century, the circular container with tapering threaded lid, enclosing planished silver metal lidded container of acorn form, further enclosing tightly-fitting turned fruitwood 'acorn' with two slots at top for release, signed 'G. Simpson, London'; possibly George Simpson, d. 1839, a well-regarded furniture maker whose father was an apothecary; this piece clearly contained something of value and is possibly a pestle and mortar for grinding special pills
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A 19th-Century Oxidised Brass Everest-Pattern Theodolite,English, c.1900, signed 'T Cooke & Sons, York' and with a military arrow and 'No.96 12F and to the top 'O.S. EVEREST 5" No.12F', the telescope with rack and pinion focusing, the eyepiece with crosshairs and adjusting screws, the two part vertical circles with silvered scales, twin verniers and magnifiers, horizontal circle with silver chamfered scale, with two verniers and swing magnifier, with bubble level, on three-screw tripod attachment with screw mounting, trough compass and plummet, in the original mahogany case
A Substantial Victorian Binocular Microscope Outfit,English, c.1880, unsigned but almost certainly from the Workshops of Thomas Ross, the microscope foot finely engraved with the owner's initials in a circular cartouch J.B.R, the cartouch design replicated on the objective cans, the objectives further engraved J. B. RAPKIN,The microscope stand on a large ‘Y’ shaped base finished in filigree work below the golden lacquer, with 2 large uprights supporting the main microcope body on large trunnions, large (84mm dia) plano-concave mirror in gimbal on articulated arm on sliding collar, octagonal substage collar mount with X-Y screw control, with crown and pinion gearing for rotation, with rack and pinion focusing, with Ross-Type Gillette’s condenser with engraved German silver spring to front, stage with X-Y control via rack and screw, with rotating slide holder finished in filigree work below the golden lacquer, large wheels to course rack and pinion focus acting on trapezoidal cross-sectioned bar, limb with large screw to attach to bar with fine focus screw acting on sprung lever to nosepiece, Wenham prism in slide in/out drawer, binocular tubes with inter-ocular adjustment via rack and pinion at top, the microscope comes with the following accessories:1” objective & can. ½” objective engraved J. B. RAPKIN LONDON & can. ¼” objective engraved J. B. RAPKIN LONDON & can. 1/6” objective engraved J. B. RAPKIN LONDON & can. objective collar side reflector. Pair of low power binocular eyepieces. Pair of medium power binocular eyepieces. High power eyepiece. Gillette Condenser. Spot lens condenser Wheel of stops. Large live box. Large substage poleriser with Nicol prism and selenite disks objective analyser Stage forceps. Stage side reflector. large table condenserContained within a substantial French polished wooden case, plinth base, with drop handles, paneled door with lock and key, with fitted drawer of accessories behind a lift off glass lid, microscope height (working height) 58cm, cabinet 81cm tall 47.5cm wide 47cm deepFootnote: The microscope is accompanied by a small archive of documents detailing research into its potential provenance from a previous owner. While not definitive, the evidence suggests a connection to a member of the Rapkin family, well-known instrument makers of the 19th century. The Rapkin family is best known for their collaboration with Pastorelli, and the establishment of the firm Pastorelli & Rapkin, which specialised in the production of barometers and barographs. While microscopes bearing the Pastorelli & Rapkin name are known to exist, it is widely believed that these were retailed by the firm rather than manufactured in-house. This particular example, therefore, offers intriguing possibilities for further scholarly investigation into its origins and association with this historically significant partnership in scientific instrumentation.
Admiral Sir Henry Nicholson, Archive of Medals, & Documents,including: The Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (KCB) military badge, white enamelled Maltese cross with gold points and lions between each arm, center of the cross featuring three crowns, a rose, thistle, and shamrock surrounded with a red ring bearing the Order's motto, "Tria Juncta In Uno" (Three Joined in One) all within a green laurel wreath, with the Order's Military Division motto, "Ich Dien" - I Serve, in gold letters on a blue scroll, on a red ribbon; the military star of the Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (KCB), eight-pointed silver cross pattée, three crowns to the centre, red ring bearing the Order's motto, "Tria Juncta In Uno" (Three Joined in One) all within a green laurel wreath, with the Order's Military Division motto, "Ich Dien" - I Serve, in gold letters on a blue scroll, with sprung pin to the rear; Medals include Egypt 1882 Khedives Star Medal; EGYPT 1882, with bar for ALEXANDRIA 11TH JULY "CAPT H. F. NICHOLSON C.B. R.N.H.M.S. TEMERAIRE"; Queen Victoria Diamond Jubilee Medal; complete with the corresponding miniature medal set on a bar, a pair of epaulettes with crown, crossed swords, and 3 stars, collection of Naval buttons, and a large portrait photograph of Sir Admiral Henry Nicholson K.C.B. along with another photograph, along with a number of documents including his baptism in 1835; apointment of captain in Her Majesty's Fleet, 1869; appointment to Rear Admiral, 1886; appointment of Commander in Chief of her majesty's Ships and Vessels, 1890; appointment to Vice Admiral in her Majesty's fleet, 1892; appointment to Admiral in her Majesty's fleet; 1897The Order of the Bath: A Historical OverviewIntroduction - The Most Honourable Order of the Bath is a distinguished British order of chivalry, formally established by King George I on 18 May 1725 (Galloway, 2006). Its name derives from a medieval ceremonial tradition in which knights underwent a ritual bath, symbolising purification before being knighted (McCreery, 2008). Historically, such elaborate rituals were reserved for significant royal occasions, such as coronations and royal weddings (Anstis, 1725). Today, the Order serves as a means of honouring senior military officers and high-ranking civil servants who have demonstrated exceptional service to the Crown (Statutes of the Order, 1925). The Order comprises the Sovereign, a Great Master, and three classes of members: Knight or Dame Grand Cross (GCB), Knight or Dame Commander (KCB/DCB), and Companion (CB) (Perkins, 2012). Members are appointed to either the Civil or Military Division, reflecting their area of contribution (Galloway, 2006).History - The origins of the Order of the Bath trace back to medieval times when knighthood ceremonies involved a ritual bath as an act of spiritual purification (McCreery, 2008). These elaborate rites were typically associated with royal ceremonies, and those who participated in them were known as "Knights of the Bath" (Anstis, 1725). However, by the coronation of Charles II in 1661, the tradition had largely fallen into disuse (Galloway, 2006). Recognising the need for a structured system to reward distinguished service, King George I, on the advice of Prime Minister Sir Robert Walpole, formally founded the Order in 1725 (Statutes of the Order, 1925). This decision not only revived medieval traditions but also provided a means of recognising service to the Crown in an organised manner (Perkins, 2012).Foundation - When the Order was formally established in 1725, it was designed to reflect both tradition and contemporary political needs. The original structure included a Sovereign, a Great Master, and 36 Knights Companion, with no distinction between military and civilian members (Anstis, 1725). This framework was rooted in the principles of chivalry while also serving as a reward mechanism for loyal service to the monarchy (Galloway, 2006). Over time, as Britain’s military engagements expanded, the Order became increasingly associated with military achievements. In 1815, the Prince Regent (later George IV) restructured the Order, introducing three classes to allow for a larger number of recipients (Statutes of the Order, 1925). This change ensured that military officers, as well as key civil servants, could be honoured for their contributions (Perkins, 2012).Victorian Era Reforms - During the reign of Queen Victoria, significant reforms were introduced to modernise the Order. In 1847, Queen Victoria issued new statutes that removed the word "Military" from the official name, enabling the inclusion of both military and civil appointments (McCreery, 2008). This restructuring led to the creation of distinct Military and Civil Divisions, making the Order more inclusive and reflective of service beyond the battlefield (Galloway, 2006). Additionally, the archaic rituals associated with the Order, such as the ceremonial bath, were abolished and replaced with formal investiture ceremonies conducted by the Sovereign (Statutes of the Order, 1925). These reforms modernised the Order, ensuring its continued relevance in a changing society (Perkins, 2012).World War I Period - The early 20th century saw the Order of the Bath playing a crucial role in recognising military excellence, particularly during World War I. The vast scale of the conflict and the contributions of military personnel led to a significant increase in appointments to the Order’s Military Division (McCreery, 2008). In 1913, prior to the war, King George V reinstated the Installation ceremony, a tradition that had been dormant for decades (Statutes of the Order, 1925). This revival reflected the Order’s continued significance in acknowledging distinguished service during national crises (Galloway, 2006). As Britain navigated the challenges of global warfare, the Order remained a symbol of honour and recognition for military and civil contributions alike (Perkins, 2012).ReferencesAnstis, J. (1725) Register of the Order of the Bath. London: [Publisher]. Galloway, P. (2006) The Order of the Bath. London: Spink. McCreery, C. (2008) The Crown and the Honourable Orders of Knighthood. Toronto: University of Toronto Press. Perkins, T. (2012) British Orders of Chivalry: Their Evolution and Role in Society. London: Boydell Press. Statutes of the Order (1925) Official Records of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath. London: HMSO.Admiral Sir Henry Frederick Nicholson, K.C.B. (Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath), was a distinguished Royal Navy officer born on October 21, 1835, in Upnor, Kent, England. He embarked on his naval career in 1849, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication throughout his service.During the Bombardment of Alexandria in 1882, Nicholson commanded HMS Temeraire, playing a pivotal role in the operation. His exemplary performance led to subsequent commands, including HMS Asia in 1884. He advanced to prominent positions such as Commander-in-Chief of the Cape of Good Hope and West Coast of Africa Station in 1890 and later Commander-in-Chief, The Nore, in 1896.In recognition of his outstanding service, Nicholson was appointed a Knight Commander of the Order of the Bath (K.C.B.). He retired on December 11, 1897, and passed away on October 17, 1914, in Ware, Hertfordshire, England.
a collection of 17 albumen prints, c.1894-1894, photographed by Lt Somerville during the work of the survey ship The Penguin in 1893, 12 mounted as gold-edged cabinet cards with annotations in blue pencil verso, some with additions in a later hand, one portrait/self-portrait titled 'Mr B T Somerville' 'The Penguin's Photographer', one titled Njaku and his canoe Mungeri' (a later printing from the negative, a gelatin silver print dated 1897 is in the British Museum, (Museum number Oc,B36.2), others showing native men and boys, and members of the ship's crew, with another smaller, also by Somerfield, captioned 'Shaving with a piece of glass at Ugi, one unmounted albumen print, again by Somerville, captioned 'Camping Party landed at Solomon Islands' with three further smaller albumen prints, apparently from the same expedition, cabinet cards 16.5cm x 10.6cm, images typically 10cm x 14.5cm, smallest three 10.5cm x 7.2cmH.M.S. Penguin and the 1893 Solomon Islands ExpeditionH.M.S. Penguin was a Royal Navy survey vessel that played an important role in charting the waters of the Pacific in the late 19th century. In 1893, Penguin undertook an expedition to the Solomon Islands, contributing significantly to British naval and scientific knowledge of the region.The primary purpose of the voyage was hydrographic survey work, mapping uncharted areas to improve navigation and facilitate safe passage for naval and commercial vessels. This work helped establish reliable maritime routes in the western Pacific. Additionally, the crew engaged in artifact collection, acquiring ethnographic items and natural specimens, many of which were later housed in British institutions, offering insight into the diverse cultures and ecosystems of the Solomon Islands.The expedition’s historical significance lies in its contribution to both imperial expansion and scientific inquiry, reflecting the dual role of the Royal Navy in exploration and colonial administration during the late Victorian era.
English Sextant with Stand,English c.1900, engraved 'Heath & Co New Eltham, London S.E.9', sextant with filters, telescope, silver scales, wooden handle, on brass sextant tripod on three adjustable leveling screws with counter-balanced swinging mount with circular weights, height 43cm
A Georgian Silver Lancet Case,English, marks for Birmingham 1829, and stamped JW, possibly by Joseph Willmore, engraved to the top of the lid 'PRESENTED TO W. Tait Esqr. Surgeon by W. T. Poole AS A SMALL TOKEN OF REGARD JAN 1843', lid opens to reveal 2 mother of pearl lancets, one blade stamped 'EVANS OLD CHANCE LONDON' the other stamped 'CLULEY' 6.2cm tall
Silver Presentation Trowel & Mallet,silver presentation trowel engraved 'PRESENTED TO H.R.H. PRINCESS HENRY OF BATTENBERG BY THE ARCHITECT G.H.V. CALE FOR THE LAYING OF A MEMORIAL STONE AT BETHANY THE WOMEN WORKERS TRANING HOME FOR THE DIOCESE OF BIRMINGHAM MAY 27TH 1914' in the base of the original case, lid missing, trowel with marksat top edgePrincess Beatrice: The Youngest Child of Queen Victoria:Princess Beatrice Mary Victoria Feodore (14 April 1857 – 26 October 1944), later known as Princess Henry of Battenberg, was the youngest child of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. As the fifth daughter and ninth child in the royal family, Beatrice was both cherished and destined for a unique role within her family. She was the last of Queen Victoria's children to pass away, outliving her eldest sibling, Princess Alice, by nearly 66 years.Beatrice’s early years were deeply shaped by the profound sorrow that engulfed her family after the death of her father, Prince Albert, in December 1861. Queen Victoria’s grief cast a long shadow over Beatrice’s childhood, and she became a source of comfort to her widowed mother. Known affectionately as “Baby” for much of her youth, Beatrice grew up in a sheltered environment where she was expected to remain close to the Queen, a role she accepted with quiet resignation as her elder siblings left to marry and establish their own households.The prospect of marriage for Beatrice was initially dismissed by her mother, who relied heavily on her presence. Queen Victoria’s reluctance to let Beatrice marry led to the rejection of several potential matches, including Louis Napoléon, the Prince Imperial of France, and Louis IV, Grand Duke of Hesse, who had been married to Beatrice’s late sister, Princess Alice. Beatrice was reportedly drawn to the Prince Imperial, but any plans for their union were tragically cut short when he was killed in 1879 during the Anglo-Zulu War.Despite her mother’s reservations, Beatrice fell in love with Prince Henry of Battenberg, a member of the Hessian royal family. After a year of negotiation and persuasion, Queen Victoria reluctantly approved their marriage under the condition that Beatrice and her new husband remain in close proximity to her, with Beatrice continuing to serve as her unofficial secretary. The couple wed on 23 July 1885 at Whippingham Church on the Isle of Wight.Beatrice and Henry had four children together, balancing their roles as parents with the demands of royal duty. However, their life together was tragically cut short when Prince Henry contracted malaria during the Anglo-Asante War and died on 20 January 1896. Following his death, Beatrice redoubled her commitment to her mother, remaining at Queen Victoria’s side until her passing in January 1901.After Queen Victoria’s death, Princess Beatrice dedicated much of her life to preserving her mother’s legacy. As the Queen’s literary executor, she undertook the monumental task of editing her journals, a project that consumed the next three decades of her life. Beatrice also continued to represent the royal family in public roles, maintaining her position as a beloved figure of the Victorian era.Princess Beatrice lived to the age of 87, passing away in October 1944. Her life, marked by devotion to her mother and family, as well as a quiet resilience in the face of personal loss.
Swedish Dry Card Compass Yacht Binnacle, C. M Hammar,Swedish, c.1900, lamp house with silver plaque engraved 'C. M. Hammar, Goteborg', binnacle mounted on polished wooden base with brass support to compas housing with circular window at an angle allowing the dry card compass to be viewed, with oil lamp at rear with wick oil lamp, height 38cm
Admiral Stuart Nicholson, Archive of Material & Documents,including: documents including Rear Admiral commission July 1912; 33 documents relating to various commissions aboard various ships between 1880 and 1912; Commission of rank of Rear Admiral; Royal Naval College Certificate for Rank of Lieutenant, 1885; an invitation to Buckingham palace for a party 28th May 1897; along with many other documents all relating to Admiral Stuart Nicholson, and a drawing instrument set with a white metal plaque to the lid engraved 'H.M.S. BRITANNIA 1st Admiralty Prize for Charts & Instruments Mr S Nicholson July 1880' brass bound case with lift out tray of German silver drawing instruments, a photographic prize medal engraved 'FOR PORTRAITURE ADMIRAL STUART NICHOLSON R.N. in a fitted caseAdmiral Stuart Nicholson, CB, MVO (1865-1936), was a distinguished officer of the Royal Navy whose career spanned over four decades, characterized by significant contributions to naval operations and strategy. Born on October 11, 1865, Nicholson entered the Navy in July 1878, marking the beginning of a lifelong dedication to naval service.Nicholson's early career was marked by participation in notable historical events, such as the Anglo-Egyptian War of 1882, where he was awarded the Egypt Medal and the Khedive's Star. His exemplary performance in these early roles led to a rapid rise through the ranks, with a notable assignment as a torpedo specialist—a role that leveraged his technical expertise and strategic acumen.One of the defining moments of his career came during the Benin Expedition of 1897. As part of this punitive expedition against the King of Benin, Nicholson was tasked with managing the water supply for the forces, a critical role that earned him a medal and a promotion to commander. This assignment underscored his ability to handle logistical challenges under pressure, further enhancing his reputation within naval circles.Throughout his career, Nicholson held several key positions, including Assistant Director of Naval Intelligence and Chief of Staff to Admiral Sir Edmund Poë in the Mediterranean. His leadership skills were particularly evident during World War I, where he commanded the 6th Battle Squadron of the Home Fleet. His efforts during the war were recognized with the prestigious appointment as a Member of the Royal Victorian Order by King Edward VII in 1908, and later, the award of the Companion of the Bath (CB) in 1916 for his indefatigable service.Upon retiring in 1920, Nicholson remained active, dedicating time to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and pursuing his hobby in photography, which also supported charitable causes.Nicholson's life was not only marked by his naval career but also by his personal life, where he was a family man, married to Althea Badeley, and a father. His legacy in the Royal Navy is remembered for his strategic impact, leadership, and significant contributions to naval operations and intelligence. His collection of awards and medals serve as a testament to his distinguished service and commitment to his country.
The master clock housed in a mahogany case with a moulded cornice, with a hinged and glazed front door, and a commemorative plaque that reads:"Electric Clock. Made and invented and exhibited at the Metropolitan and Provincial Industrial Exhibition held at the Agricultural Hall, Islington, in September 1866 by Mr Louis Olin, to whom a silver medal was awarded. Presented by Mrs James Turrell and Mr Ernest Olin"The movement incorporates a pendulum with a solid brass bob, suspended via a precision knife-edge suspension. Midway along the pendulum rod, two pivoted brass contact arms—insulated on the upper side with leather pads—regulate the electrical impulses.During operation, these brass contacts engage with pivoted silver contacts, providing an electromagnetic impulse to the pendulum through C-shaped solenoids and iron plates affixed to the side of the pendulum. This system ensures a consistent and regulated oscillation.The accompanying slave unit is mounted on a substantial ebonised oak base and features a striking skeleton frame finished with a simulated marble effect. The movement is fitted with robust, thick-cut wheelwork, with an escapement mechanism linked by chains to two paddles. These paddles are actuated by cloth-bound solenoids positioned on either side of the frame, ensuring synchronous operation with the master clock.Louis Maximillian Ernest Olin, born in 1837, was a printer and stationer based in London during the mid-19th century, working from 15 Basinghall Street, he was primarily known as a Parliamentary stationer. His business card detailed his diverse expertise, describing him as a "Translator of Languages, Law and General Stationer, Printer, Lithographer, and Ornamental Writer." Beyond his professional endeavors, Olin resided at 9 Osterley Road, Stoke Newington, with his wife and two children.Accompanying this lot are copies of Olin's naturalisation documents, his business card, and two photographs—possibly depicting Louis Olin with his wife, as well as with his daughter-in-law.BUYER BEWARE: WE CANNOT SHIP THIS LOT, PLEASE ARRANGE COLLECTION OR OWN COURIER*We Recommend Pack & Send Oxford*
Modern coins to include Pobjoy Mint proof silver 'Pearl Back' 28.28g sterling silver coin, similar titanium twopenny blue coin, 1986 and 1989 £2 coins, crowns and £5 coins, Tower Mint 2002 and 2003 Jubilee four coin sets, Tower Mint Royal Kings and Queens and Royal Palaces sets, Westminster gold plated coins, Royal Mint 1994, 2003 and 2004 coin sets, similar Irish and Isle of Man sets, Victorian sixpence and an Admiral Gardner East India Company coin
Hallmarked silver, American silver and hallmarked silver mounted items to include Lunt American silver quaich or similar, hallmarked silver match box holder, silver backed brushes and a novelty hallmarked silver and cut glass match striker engraved with FIRE, 62g weighable silver
Georgian and later hallmarked silver cutlery comprising Newcastle fiddle pattern table spoon, two table forks, two dessert spoons and three dessert forks together with a further dessert spoon, King's pattern teaspoon, fiddle pattern teaspoon, thistle top teaspoon and a salt spoon, weight of all items 475g
A collection of costume jewellery including Trifari necklace, Sarah Coventry brooch, compacts, watches, Wedgwood earrings, Art Deco clip, cameo brooch, Vendome earrings, pearl and amethyst necklace, cloisonné necklace, RSK brooch, silver ring, Art Deco bracelet, Kigu compact, Jewelcraft, etc
Ten Royal Mint Beatrix Potter limited edition silver proof 50 pence coins, comprising 2016 Squirrel Nutkin, Mrs Tiggy-Winkle and Jemima Puddle-Duck, 2017 Tom Kitten, Jeremy Fisher, Benjamin Bunny and Peter Rabbit and 2018 Tailor of Gloucester, Mrs Tittlemouse and Flopsy Bunny, all in original boxes with certificates
Two silver open faced pocket watches Hebdomas style keyless winding open faced with visible escapement, blued hands, Roman numerals, white enamel dial and signed dust cover, case diameter 47mm and H Samuel of Manchester Accurate with subsidiary seconds dial, gold hands, black Roman numerals and white dial, case diameter 53mm.

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2720344 item(s)/page