For the Collector: Silver, Fine Pens & Luxury Accessories

Jessie Marion King was born in the Bearsden area of Glasgow in 1875. Whilst her religiously devout parents were against the idea of her attending art school; her natural ability and persistent nature eventually saw her enrol in the prestigious Glasgow School of Art in 1892.

A collection of provincial Scottish silver spoons from the rare assay town of Forres will provoke interest in this niche but very active collecting field.  This small town approximately 25 miles north-east of Inverness was, along with Elgin, one of the hubs of silversmithing in the Highlands.  However, survivors are rare and so even otherwise humble teaspoons command a significant premium.  The maker Patrick Riach set up business with his brother in 1817 and stayed in Forres producing silver into the reign of Queen Victoria before retirement in 1854.

Scotland has remained a centre of silversmithing throughout the 20^th century and our focus moves to modernist production of the 1990s with a very stylish pair of candlesticks by Richard Batho being offered in addition to two lots including a pair of salt and pepper shakers made at the Glasgow School of Art.

Scotland has remained a centre of silversmithing throughout the 20^th century and our focus moves to modernist production of the 1990s with a very stylish pair of candlesticks by Richard Batho being offered in addition to two lots including a pair of salt and pepper shakers made at the Glasgow School of Art.

If you have a taste for luxury but silver isn’t quite your thing a fine selection of fountain and ballpoint pens should fit the bill with desired names including Dupont, Dunhill and Mont Blanc all on offer.  These firms elevated writing instruments to true works of art using the finest techniques and materials available.  In the case of Dupont a ballpoint in sumptuous Chinese lacquer is both a pleasure to behold and to handle while numerous Mont Blanc offerings feature the timeless Meisterstuck model.

With further highlights including a large and impressive model of the Mary Rose all in silver and a limited edition Limoges for Patek Philippe ‘Pocket Watch’ design ashtray, this auction offers plenty of glitz and glamour for those who like the finer things in life.

James Spridion

For a complimentary, no-obligation valuation, visit our Glasgow Galleries or contact a specialist on 0141 810 2880 or auction@mctears.co.uk.