Stuart Period Iron Knife with Crown Maker's Mark

Modelled standing and holding a bulbous spouted container in his extended hands, stylised head with projecting ears and open mouth; repaired. 1.92 kg, 30 cm



Private collection of Dr Alvin M. Soffe (c.1922-1995) and Elizabeth Ann Soffe, Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, acquired circa 1960s-1970s, thence by descent. Accompanied by a copy of a letter no.S00256668 from the Art Loss Register confirming that this item was not found on their database.

Skilfully carved cameo depicting the jewelled profile bust of Maria Theresa facing right, the background is highly polished, whilst the relief is rendered with contrasting polished and matt elements; the high-carat gold brooch setting likely original to the jewel and set with a border of blister pearls. 9.69 grams, 37 mm



Acquired on the European art market.

Maria Theresa Walburga Amalia Christina (c.1717-80) was ruler of the Habsburg dominions from 1740 until she died in 1780, and the only woman to hold the position suo jure. She was the sovereign of Austria, Hungary, Croatia, Bohemia, Transylvania, Mantua, Milan, Lodomeria and Galicia, the Austrian Netherlands, and Parma.

Rectangular panel with a profile head of a female wearing a bag-wig and two collars around her neck. 1.04 kg, 18.2 cm



By repute ex Christie's, Ne York, 1996 and an old European collection. Private collection, London, UK.