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.
Two rediscovered sculptures from Barrington Hall, Hatfield Broad Oak, will be offered for sale on the open market for the first time in nearly 300 years, in our December Fine Interiors sale.
13 November 2025
Sworders are delighted to present a collection of Gianni Versace dresses in our upcoming Jewellery, Gifts and Luxury Goods sale, taking place on Wednesday 26 November.
11 November 2025
Discover four curiosities from an East Anglian Private Collection in our Open House timed auction, taking place 4–10 November.
4 November 2025