Objects of Vertu

 

Designed to be beautiful as well as functional, objects of vertu are small objects created from precious materials either to be admired simply as works of art or, more often, as luxury items with a practical purpose. The subject includes familiar items such as cigarette cases, scent bottles, snuff boxes, fans, vesta cases, card cases and pincushions plus once fashionable accoutrements such as vinaigrettes, etuis and bonbonnières.

They collectively take their name from the ‘virtuosity’ of their craftsmanship - be it a presentation gold and gem set box from Romanov Russia or a Cartier vanity case made for a 1920s Flapper. Sworders enjoyed huge interest when offering a collection of diminutive porcelain scent bottles made by the Chelsea and St James’s factories c.1750s.

With new interest from around the world, and perfectly sized to appeal to collectors tight on space, this area has recently enjoyed a revival.

Results & Highlights

 

Our specialists

Our specialists hold regular valuation days. Please contact us for more information, or complete the online form to enquire about the valuation of your items. 

James Pickup

James Pickup
Head of Fine Interiors

T 01279 817778
E jamespickup@sworder.co.uk

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Want to know how much your Objects of Vertu may be worth? Fill out our easy to use form and a member of the team will be in touch with free advice shortly.

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News & Articles

Tales in Thread | The Hildegard Heygate Textiles Collection

Sworders are pleased to present a selection of antique and vintage textiles in our December Fine Interiors sale, including items from the collection of the late Hildegard Heygate.

4 December 2023

An Encore | From the Collection of Sir Rod Stewart

The Fine Interiors team feel privileged that, for the third time, Sir Rod has asked us to disperse items from his family home in the Essex countryside.

29 November 2023

Dick Turpin | The Legend Lives On

Sworders are extremely privileged to announce the sale of the contents of the West London flat of Maurice Turpin (1928-2005) in a single-owner sale on 25 January 2024.

24 November 2023