A collapsible silk top hat - perfect for a Victorian night at the opera, or a 20th century magic trick - comes for sale on July 20.
Our Homes & Interiors sale on Tuesday 20 July includes the novelty hat, made by Gibus of 10 Chandles Street, Trafalgar Square alongside a presentation wand given to a member of the Magic Circle with a guide of £80-120.
Antoine Gibus was a Parisian hatmaker who, during the early 19th century, had solved a problem with which wearers of the top hat were well acquainted. Rather than seek a place to hang one’s silk topper, he created a hat, using a system of steel springs, that could be collapsed flat!
The wand, with silver mounts and a presentation inscription to John Holt, Esq M.M.C. 1963 has a terminal enamelled with the signs of the zodiac. It comes in a silk lined case for John Finches, London.
From all at Sworders, we wish you a very Happy Easter!
1 April 2026
We are pleased to present two significant tapestries designed by Sir Brian Clarke in 1991 for Carmelite House, located on the Victoria Embankment in central London.
1 April 2026
Join our specialists for a complimentary valuation day, held monthly at Guildhall Library. From Asian Art to Jewellery, along with many other categories, our specialists will be delighted to assist you.
1 April 2026