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.
We are thrilled to share an incredible story regarding a portrait miniature sold in our last Old Master, British & European Art auction.
5 August 2026
We are pleased to include a collection of Sir Winston Churchill items in our next Open House sale, which will be live for browsing and bidding until Monday 17 August.
5 August 2026
Sworders London Gallery welcomed guests for a captivating talk by curator and art historian Vivienne Roberts, offering a fascinating insight into the life and extraordinary work of Madge Gill.
4 August 2026