{"title":"Curios","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"a-group-of-five-large-framed-pentecostal-movement-london-assemblies-of-god-sermon-posters-c-1964","title":"A Group of Five Large Framed Pentecostal Movement London Assemblies of God Sermon Posters c.1964","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Mid 20thC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1964\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 35.25”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 27.5”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepth: 1.25” (each in frames)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe group of five framed pentecostal movement billboard posters, in distressed and wonderfully evocative condition, each being professionally custom framed, advertising the sermons of the London Assemblies of God central conventions in 1964, each in black red and blue block scripts with verses from the Bible.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe condition of the posters is what makes them so utterly beguiling meaning that the verses are partially screened out. These billboard posters would have been re-used time and again with the newer version pasted over the older one. The frames have been specially custom designed to now protect and conserve the remaining texts. Essentially with these being ephemera they weren’t intended to last more than a few weeks.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe posters read;\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e-    Be Sure your Sins will Find You out\u003cbr\u003e-    Behold, I come quickly; and my Wicked ?\u003cbr\u003e-    Jesus by his own blood he obtained eternal redemption (x2)\u003cbr\u003e-    How Wilt Thou Do In The Swelling Of The Jordan? \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the late 1800s and early 1900s there was a revival characterised by manifestations of the Holy Spirit, and it was out of this that the Assemblies of God was formed. In January 1926, the AoG GB leaders took complete leadership of the previous Pentecostal Missionary Union – which had a Bible School at Hampstead in London. This maintained its independence, but became the Bible school for the Assemblies of God. The building was destroyed in 1940 – 41. Other buildings were used for a time before the college moved to Kenley in Surrey in 1950, and amalgamated with the Bristol Bible College in 1951. The college moved to its current home, Mattersey, near Doncaster in Yorkshire, in 1973.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Assemblies of God is now made up of over 500 churches in 700 locations throughout Great Britain. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHugely punchy and decorative, having a big impact when grouped together, with that ever so slightly macabre undertone, giving them a really edgy feel.","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32012292522078,"sku":"2180","price":2750.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0216\/6074\/products\/1960spreacherposters1.jpg?v=1592828475"},{"product_id":"a-rare-late-19thc-group-of-sixty-six-mugshot-photographs-c-1900","title":"A Rare Late 19thC Group of Sixty-Six Mugshot Photographs c.1900","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Late Victorian\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1900\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEach Page: 7” x 4.5”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHailing from the last quarter of the nineteenth century, the very scarce group of sixty six doubles or 132 single mugshot or police booking photographs, from an administrative ledger, showing each male prisoner in profile and head-on, via pasted down silver paper gelatin portrait photographs to eleven loose album leaves, accompanied with their alleged crime and with numbers, names or initials, handwritten in ink beneath, surviving in-tact from the turn of the nineteenth century.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe condition of the images is good with some small blemishes, and the paper with some tattiness and spotting with browned edgings, with some having a little silvering and slight fade. They would probably benefit from being framed in double sided frames or one side to each could be peeled away from the backing paper and so one would then have twenty-two sets to display.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe crimes alleged include;\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLarceny (and receiving)\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBurglary\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRape\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRobbery with Violence\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHouse-Breaking\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCounterfeit Coin\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRobbery with Violence\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eForgery\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWounding\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHouse Stealing\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eArson\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePick-Pocket\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eShop-Breaking\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCycle Stealing\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJewellery Stealing\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eClothing Stealing\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThere are a few full names such as G. Wright and W.Glover but most are just initialled.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMugshots were originally created because written descriptions were unreliable. A governor at the time these shots were taken said of the new method; “'Photography as an agent in discovering the antecedents of criminals, especially tramps and strangers, is unquestionably a very useful auxiliary and in my opinion should be brought into prison use generally.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSome experts say that the first photographs used for law enforcement were probably taken of prisoners in Belgium in 1843 and 1844, possibly so that the prisoners could be identified if they committed other crimes after being released. By 1857 the New York police had adopted the practice, opening a gallery so that the public could come in to see the daguerreotypes of “hookers, stooges, grifters and goons. “They offer a rare insight into the lower classes of the late 19th century, who were rarely photographed. Photographic portraits were expensive so the portraits which usually survive from this time are mainly of the gentry and middle classes who could afford them.”\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWhether thieves, poachers, forgers or pickpockets, this group are very rare ephemera photography and prove to be utterly absorbing.","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41286126469310,"sku":"2545","price":3950.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0216\/6074\/products\/late19thmugshots1.jpg?v=1647430018"},{"product_id":"an-early-20thc-hand-painted-fairground-sign-children-s-joy-c-1910","title":"An Early 20thC Hand-Painted Fairground Sign; Children’s Joy; c.1910","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Edwardian \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1910\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 31.5”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 6.5”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe decorative hand painted fairground, sign designed to draw in the crowds at fairgrounds in the early-twentieth century, sign written with the words Children’s Joy, in green with yellow highlights and shadowed in orange, the whole being an early example of fairground and circus memorabilia.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSuspended from two corner holes, the panel has paint flaking to several areas and scuffs commensurate with age (it was of course part of a travelling troupe) but structurally it is sound.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe wording suggests this sign was advertising any number of attractions.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA decorative gem, and an early example of its type, encompassing all the fun of the fair with particularly nice sign written script.","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43429097734334,"sku":"2829","price":345.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0216\/6074\/files\/childrensjoycircussign1.jpg?v=1704722878"},{"product_id":"an-early-20thc-french-boudoir-doll-c-1920-30","title":"An Early 20thc French Boudoir Doll c.1920-30","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: French\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: 3rd Republic\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1920-30\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 18”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 5”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepth: 2.5” (all at extremities)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe early twentieth century boudoir doll having a suede body and suede covered papier-mache head with painted features, wearing her original pink and white silk dress with sky blue banding to gold painted stilettoes, her silk braided golden hair in the typical 1920s headphone style, surviving from the first quarter of the twentieth century.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn completely original order, her costume is slightly tired as one would expect but is completely original with some discolouration to parts but does not suffer from loss or damage with only area of loss to the right thumb and other areas of wear as photographed.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eImpressionistic of seductive, long-limbed ladies, boudoir dolls were produced mainly in France and Spain between 1920 and 1930. Unlike most dolls they were made to be placed on beds and in boudoirs. The dolls today are sought after because of their classic artistic styling and, often, their art deco look. \u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePretty in pink.","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43447306322110,"sku":"2851","price":295.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0216\/6074\/files\/pinkboudoirdoll1.jpg?v=1705159068"},{"product_id":"an-early-mid-20thc-papier-mache-model-of-a-human-skull-on-marble-stand","title":"An Early\/Mid 20thC Papier-Mâché Model of a Human Skull on Marble Stand","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Early 20thC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1940-60\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 11.5”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 6”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepth: 6” (all on plinth)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith a beautiful patina, the model human skull cast in papiermache and hand painted in good detail with the suture lines showing, the whole once used for theatrical use and surviving from the early to mid twentieth century period on a white marble plinth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe skull and stand are both in good original order and it is likely that the skull was attached to the stand at a later date.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis example is thought to have been used as a stage prop, being in papier-mâché it is light for theatrical use. It is well proportioned to its stand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike modern examples, this skull has a wonderful patina and superb decorative look.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55499753095549,"sku":"2984","price":680.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0216\/6074\/files\/skullonplinth1.jpg?v=1741780026"},{"product_id":"a-large-20thc-wavy-fairground-mirror-c-1970-80","title":"A Large 20thC Wavy Fairground Mirror c.1970-80","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Mid \/ Late 20thC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1970-80\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 25.75”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 67”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepth: 6.5”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eForming a virtual image, the wavy acrylic plate in a stained pine box frame to simulate oak with reeded edges, standing at five and a half feet high and surviving from a house of mirrors attraction at a British fairground or circus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition is sound with no apparent damage to note; there is some foxing to the glass, though entirely consummate with age and the frame is intact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA house, or hall of mirrors is a traditional attraction at funfairs and amusement parks; the basic concept, a maze-like puzzle. The mirrors may be distorted because of different curves, convex or concave, to give the participants unusual and confusing reflections of themselves to be either humorous or frightening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe origins of the house of mirrors stem from the hall of mirrors in the Palace of Versailles. Upon a visit to France to discuss colonial land agreements, Peter Stuyvesant arrived at the Palace of Versailles and gazed upon the hall of mirrors present in the palace. Peter became determined to bring this amazement to the newly founded colonial city of New Amsterdam, of which he was governor. Peter Stuyvesant's House of Mirrors was founded in 1651 and he charged one Dutch gulden for admission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOnce the custodian of this mirror, you too could happily charge for admission but be warned; this mirror may transform you into a pin-headed monster…and whatever you do, don’t look behind you.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":55990283633021,"sku":"3011","price":1600.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0216\/6074\/files\/fairgroundmirrorwavey1.jpg?v=1746702287"},{"product_id":"a-rare-large-victorian-meat-platter-the-metropolitan-asylum-board-by-edge-malkin-co-c-1880","title":"A Rare \u0026 Large Victorian Meat Platter; The Metropolitan Asylum Board; by Edge Malkin \u0026 Co c.1880","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Late Victorian\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: The Metropolitan Asylum Board\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1880\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 22.5”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepth: 17.75”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 3”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe very large and scarce late Victorian meat plate by Edge Malkin \u0026amp; Co, Staffordshire, stamped as such and with the logo of the Metropolitan Asylum Board to the top outer edge, the platter with a peacock blue rim and with a tree of life type channelled base whereby the fat and juices of the cooked meat are transferred to the pool through the main channel, the whole sitting on a footed base and surviving from the last quarter of the nineteenth century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe platter is in fair overall order – one end has been cracked and repaired as per the photographs. The rest of the piece remains intact, with the foot in order and the transfers and blue detailing all slightly faded but still readable. There is a lovely honest all-over craquelure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe construction of asylums was widespread in Britain following The Lunacy Act of 1845, which resulted primarily from the work of John Connolly and Lord Shaftsbury. This act professionalised the asylum and ensured that each institution was mediated by the local authority. It marked a paradigmatic shift, wherein ‘lunatics’ began to be considered as patients instead of prisoners. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBetween 1867 and 1930, the Metropolitan Asylums Board (MAB) played a substantial and increasing role in the care of London's sick poor. During that period, institutional medical care for the poor was transformed from a system based on often squalid workhouse infirmaries, staffed by illiterate paupers, to one which included around forty general and specialist MAB establishments, many purpose-built, staffed by well-trained personnel. The institutions set up by the MAB came to be accessible by all the capital's inhabitants, not just the poor. By 1900 the MAB was responsible for 2,486 beds in smallpox hospitals in country areas and 6,108 beds in fever hospitals in London. During its lifetime, MAB set up around forty institutions. The Board can justly claim to have provided the nation's first state hospitals, and laid the foundations of what in 1948 became the National Health Service. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEdge, Malkin \u0026amp; Co. Based in Burslem, the company was founded by Joseph, William, and John Edge and James Malkin in 1870. They primarily produced blue, sepia and brown transfer-printed tableware, in typical Victorian styles. They made meat plates and chargers like this for steamships and ocean liners, such as Havelock Steamers, but this is the only example we can find with the asylum mark to it. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe cannot find another item having been sold with this stamp so this makes it a valuable piece of social history.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56255945998717,"sku":"2947","price":360.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0216\/6074\/files\/metropolitanasylumboardmeatplatter1.jpg?v=1750333851"},{"product_id":"the-lost-keys-a-group-of-thirty-seven-early-20thc-hotel-keys-c-1920-50","title":"The Lost Keys; A Group of Thirty-Seven Early 20thC Hotel Keys c.1920-50","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: American\/French\/English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Early\/Mid 20thC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1920-50\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVarious Sizes ~ Please enquire if of importance \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePriced individually, the collection of thirty-seven original early to mid-twentieth century shafted iron, brass and metal keys and fobs each being beautifully etched and punched with various hotels from the United Kingdom, France, Canada and the United States, most with room or suite numbers and each with time-worn patinas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach key and fob is in good overall order with no damages. Please refer to the photographs to each for a visual reference. We have refrained from cleaning them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe keys, in no particular order, are available as follows, with some examples only consisting of the fob with no key and two examples of just a single key; please add the desired key\/and or fob to your cart, should it\/they not have sold; in photographic order from left to right they are presented as follows;\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe George of Oakham, UK; Room No.30\u003cbr\u003eSwansons Hotel, Jersey, USA; Room No.200\u003cbr\u003eThe Rice; Houston, Texas, USA; Room No.1608\u003cbr\u003eMorton Hotel, Russell Square, London, UK; Room No.22\u003cbr\u003eHotel Lexington, New York City, USA; Room No.920\u003cbr\u003eMayfair Hotel, Unknown; Room No.455\u003cbr\u003eThe Benjamin Franklin, Philadelphia, USA; Room No.975\u003cbr\u003eThe Belvedere, Baltimore, USA; Room No.818\u003cbr\u003eThe Regency, Chicago, USA; Room No.3214\u003cbr\u003eGrand Hotel, Swansea, UK; Room No.43\u003cbr\u003eHotel Majestic, Cannes, France; Room No.131\u003cbr\u003eChateau Laurier, Ottawa, Canada; Room No.588\u003cbr\u003eHotel Statler, St. Louis, USA; Room No.648\u003cbr\u003eThe Madison, New York, USA; Room No.4C\u003cbr\u003eDevoncourt Hotel, Exmouth, UK; Room No.34\u003cbr\u003eLord Baltimore Hotel, Baltimore, USA; Room No.1507\u003cbr\u003eThe Plaza, San Antonio, Texas, USA; Room No.311\u003cbr\u003eHotel Lexington, New York City, USA; Room No.1120\u003cbr\u003eThe Benjamin Franklin, Philadelphia, USA; Room No.1120\u003cbr\u003eThe Palace Hotel, San Francisco, USA; Room No.4044\u003cbr\u003eRed Lion Hotel, Pontefract, UK; Room No.15\u003cbr\u003eUnited Hotels Co. America, New York, USA; Room No.1603\u003cbr\u003eBook-Cadillac Hotel, Detroit, USA; Room No.1347\u003cbr\u003eGrand Hotel, Biarritz, France; Room No. Suite Imperiale\u003cbr\u003eChateau Laurier, Ottawa, Canada; Room No.280\u003cbr\u003eThe Mayfair Hotel, St. Louis, USA; Room No.912\u003cbr\u003eRoyal Victoria Hotel, UK; Room No.167\u003cbr\u003eThe George of Oakham, UK; Room No.38\u003cbr\u003eHotel Lincoln, New York, USA; Room No.1850\u003cbr\u003eRamada Inn, Bonita, California, USA; Room No.274\u003cbr\u003eGoodes Hotel, Great Yarmouth, UK; Room No.25\u003cbr\u003eThe Madison, New York, USA; No Room No.\u003cbr\u003eCain Hydro, Harrogate, UK; Room No.201\u003cbr\u003eBrunswick Hotel, Clacton, UK; Room No.1\u003cbr\u003eGriffin Hotel, Leeds, UK; Room No.161\u003cbr\u003eCompliments of Central Hotel, Milford, Delaware, USA; No Room No.\u003cbr\u003eGeorge Hotel, Nottingham, UK; No Room No.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough we are unsure of what became of the myriad of rooms listed here, it is certain that each one has its own unique beautiful weight of a story untold.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"The George of Oakham 30","offer_id":56627036979581,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Swansons Hotel","offer_id":56627037012349,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"The Rice; Houston","offer_id":56627037045117,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Morton Hotel","offer_id":56627037077885,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Hotel Lexington 920","offer_id":56627037110653,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Mayfair Hotel","offer_id":56627037143421,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"The Benjamin Franklin 975","offer_id":56627037176189,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"The Belvedere","offer_id":56627037208957,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"The Regency","offer_id":56627037241725,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Grand Hotel 43","offer_id":56627037274493,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Hotel Majestic","offer_id":56627037307261,"sku":null,"price":95.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Chateau Laurier 588","offer_id":56627037340029,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Hotel Statler","offer_id":56627037372797,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"The Madison 4C","offer_id":56627037405565,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Devoncourt Hotel","offer_id":56627037438333,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Lord Baltimore Hotel","offer_id":56627037471101,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"The Plaza","offer_id":56627037503869,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Hotel Lexington","offer_id":56627037536637,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"The Benjamin Franklin 1120","offer_id":56627037569405,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"The Palace Hotel","offer_id":56627037602173,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Red Lion Hotel","offer_id":56627037634941,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"United Hotels Co.","offer_id":56627037667709,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Book-Cadillac Hotel","offer_id":56627037700477,"sku":null,"price":50.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Grand Hotel","offer_id":56627037733245,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Chateau Laurier 280","offer_id":56627037766013,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"The Mayfair Hotel","offer_id":56627037798781,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Royal Victoria Hotel","offer_id":56627037831549,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"The George of Oakham 38","offer_id":56627037864317,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Hotel Lincoln","offer_id":56627037897085,"sku":null,"price":80.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Ramada Inn","offer_id":56627037929853,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Goodes Hotel","offer_id":56627037962621,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"The Madison","offer_id":56627037995389,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Cain Hydro","offer_id":56627038028157,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Brunswick Hotel","offer_id":56627038060925,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Griffin Hotel","offer_id":56627038093693,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Compliments of Central Hotel","offer_id":56627038126461,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"George Hotel","offer_id":56627038159229,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0216\/6074\/files\/collectionofhotelkeys1.jpg?v=1754401037"},{"product_id":"a-solid-brass-american-corpse-identification-tag-from-the-bureau-of-indian-affairs-montana-territory-no-91-c-1930","title":"A Solid Brass American Corpse Identification Tag from the ‘Bureau of Indian Affairs; Montana Territory; no.91’ c.1930","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: American\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Early Victorian\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1930\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLength: 4”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe solid brass morgue tags once attached to the toes of the deceased and surviving from the early twentieth century stating to be from the Bureau of Indian Affairs marked \"Property of U.S. Government \/ Bureau of Indian Affairs Wyoming Territory Corpse No. 91\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe tag shows good overall condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are reproductions of these tags online of ‘Wyoming Territory’ and to see an original like this is rare.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA macabre and very collectable relic.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56627161203069,"sku":"3053a","price":195.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0216\/6074\/files\/montanacorpsetag1.jpg?v=1754404060"},{"product_id":"two-rare-striped-linen-laundry-sacks-her-majesty-s-prison-c-1959-60","title":"Two Rare Striped Linen Laundry Sacks; Her Majesty’s Prison c.1959-60","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Mid 20thC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1959-60\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 24”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 24”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(each)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePriced individually and dating from the middle of the twentieth century, the very scarcely found buff and navy\/black pin-striped linen laundry sacks, each being two feet in size and stamped ‘19\/1 HMP23 1959’ and ‘19\/1 HMP23 1960’ respectively and with the original rope tie handles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good un-cleaned condition, the bags are complete with their ties and suffer from no holes or moth. The 1960 example has black pinstripes and the 1959 example is in navy blue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe origin of the black-and-white-striped prison uniform goes back to the Auburn prison system that started in New York in the 1820s. In this system prisoners had to be silent, walk in “lockstep,” and they all wore black and white uniforms covered in stripes that symbolised prison bars. The uniforms made prisoners immediately recognisable as criminals, so if a prisoner escaped, the public could easily distinguish them from the non-criminal population. It was in 1953, in the seminal movie ‘The Wild One’ when the main antagonist ‘Chino”, leader of a notorious motorcycle gang, wore a prison striped jersey that they became entombed in subcultural fashions ever since.  Eventually, by the later part of the mid-twentieth century, these prison stripes fell out of favour and solid-coloured jumpsuits became the norm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery rarely seen on the open market and still eminently useable whilst being brilliant conversation starters.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"Navy 1959","offer_id":56677881807229,"sku":"3060ab-1","price":180.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Black 1960","offer_id":56678067306877,"sku":null,"price":180.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0216\/6074\/files\/hmprisonservicelaudrybags1.jpg?v=1754996335"},{"product_id":"a-relic-patinated-human-skull-pre-c-1900","title":"A Relic Patinated Human Skull Pre c.1900","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Pre c.1900\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1900 or earlier\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 5”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 5.5”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepth: 7.5”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn relic condition, the largely in-tact human skull dating to at least the early twentieth century, displaying a superb aged patina and authentic colour, the mandible present but unarticulated, and probably once belonging to a female or young male.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe skull remains in good overall order; please view the photographs for a full visual reference. Most of the missing teeth were lost ante-mortem, now with five still remaining. The orbits and nasal cavity are well-preserved. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe varied patination to this example elevates it beyond many of the other examples seen. Although some may find selling human bones unethical it is completely legal providing the specimen is antique and not displayed in a public environment without a license, rather only privately. In our opinion the stories that this wonderful object tells deserve to be told.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA divisive piece with an untold story in beautiful relic condition.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57356125536637,"sku":"3100","price":1200.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0216\/6074\/files\/relichumanskull1.jpg?v=1762781597"},{"product_id":"a-rustic-thornwood-walking-stick-carved-old-gibbeting-field-c-1900","title":"A Rustic Thornwood Walking Stick Carved ‘Old Gibbeting Field’ c.1900","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Late Victorian\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1900\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLength: 39”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHandle Width: 6.25”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHandle Depth: 1.5”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe wonderfully vernacular thornwood walking stick, the naturally knotted shaft retaining its organic, time-worn contour and topped with a simple T-form handle. To one side, the stick is neatly carved OLD GIBBETING FIELD, the lettering cut prior to varnishing and sitting comfortably within the surface, the whole having a mellow, gently polished tone consistent with late Victorian–Edwardian folk work, and surviving as a pleasing rural curiosity with a quietly macabre lean.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good, honest condition for its age, with expected handling gloss, small knocks and minor age-related inconsistencies to the surface finish. The carving remains clear and legible, and the varnish shows the soft burnish of long use without losses or restorations. Structurally sound and ready for display.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSuch inscribed rustic sticks were popular from the late 19th century into the interwar years, often made by local craftsmen who embellished simple woodland-cut canes with references to nearby landmarks, folklore or former execution grounds. “Gibbeting fields” appear in village memory across Britain, frequently used as catch-all terms for places where criminals were once displayed in iron cages as a public warning. Whether tied to a specific site or to the broader folklore of rural justice, the inscription here belongs to that period fascination with the antiquarian, the macabre and the half-remembered customs of earlier centuries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA characterful and evocative rustic walking stick, its carved inscription lending it an appealing narrative weight and touch of morbid curiosity so sought after today.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57543661486461,"sku":"3114","price":480.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0216\/6074\/files\/oldgibbetingfieldwalkingstick1.jpg?v=1765369116"},{"product_id":"a-scarce-late-19thc-convict-watchman-s-bronze-alarm-bell-c-1890","title":"A Scarce Late 19thC Convict Watchman’s Bronze Alarm Bell c.1890","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: British\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Mid\/Late 20thC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1890\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 10.5”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDiameter: 6”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe well-preserved nineteenth century bronze alarm bell having a flared body crisply struck to the front with the Broad Arrow ordnance mark denoting government property, the whole retaining a pleasing, time-worn patina and having its original turned wooden handle with good colour and handling wear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe condition of the bell is good and operative (see video), with its honest utilitarian casting, deep tone and uncleaned surface with a beautifully mellow handle and verdigris to the bronze.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese heavy hand bells formed part of the infrastructure of the nineteenth century British penal and policing system. Issued as government property, indicated by the Broad Arrow ordnance mark, they were used by prison warders, night watchmen and institutional officers to raise the alarm, summon assistance or signal emergencies within gaols, workhouses and convict establishments. Their form prioritised durability and audibility: a thick-walled bronze bell producing a deep, carrying tone, combined with a robust turned wooden handle suited to constant use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhilst manufactured within the British ordnance supply system, many examples were transported throughout the Empire, most notably to Australia, where the scale of the colonial convict system ensured their survival in greater numbers. As a result, closely comparable bells are now most often recorded in Australian “Convict Relics” sales. Surviving examples such as this one are evocative remnants of institutional authority and control, objects that once punctuated the daily rhythm of confinement, labour and surveillance in the nineteenth century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA tactile and evocative object from the shadowy edges of nineteenth century institutional life.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57595950203261,"sku":"3120","price":880.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0216\/6074\/files\/convictwatchmansalarmbell1.jpg?v=1766058138"},{"product_id":"a-silver-decanter-label-for-poison-cj-vander-london-1979","title":"A Silver Decanter Label for 'Poison'; CJ Vander; London 1979","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: English\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Mid\/Late 20thC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1979\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 0.75” or 4” with chain\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 1.75”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWeight: 8 grams aprx\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe finely crafted sterling silver decanter label of traditional octagonal form, crisply engraved in bold serif capitals with the single, arresting word “POISON”, the plate chamfered to the corners with a reeded border and suspended from its original silver chain and fully hallmarked for London 1979 and maker’s mark C.J.V Ltd.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe surface retains a soft, even patina with light wear commensurate with age, the engraving still sharp and legible as are the hallmarks. There are minor surface scratches visible under close inspection, consistent with handling whilst the chain appears original and in good order. Overall a well-preserved example.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSilver decanter labels, or bottle tickets, emerged in the 18th century as practical identifiers for cut-glass decanters, particularly within grand dining settings. By the later twentieth century they were revived in sterling silver as both functional and novelty pieces. Examples bearing standard spirits are commonplace; however those engraved with more unusual or macabre wording such as “Poison” were produced in far smaller numbers and have a distinctly decorative rather than practical intent. The choice of word nods to apothecary traditions, gothic interiors, and the long-standing aesthetic fascination with danger and the forbidden. Though modest in scale, it carries undeniable theatrical presence; a small object with disproportionate impact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe origins of CJ Vander date back to Alexander Macrae who established his business in 1856 (32 Bow Street, Covent Garden, London). In 1870, he entered in partnership with Martin Goldstein changing the firm's name to Macrae \u0026amp; Goldstein. The partnership was dissolved in 1878 and Martin Goldstein continued to trade under his own name until 1886, when he sold the firm to Cornelius Joshua Vander (1837 - 1904).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA scarce and quietly subversive object; equally at home draped across a dark glass apothecary bottle or resting within a cabinet of curiosities; small, witty, and just a little wicked.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57872659710333,"sku":"3133","price":295.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0216\/6074\/files\/silverpoisondecanterlabel1.jpg?v=1772109389"},{"product_id":"a-pair-of-patented-gilt-metal-mounted-painted-glass-hanging-apothecary-display-carboys-c-1891","title":"A Pair of Patented Gilt Metal Mounted \u0026 Painted Glass Hanging Apothecary Display Carboys c.1891","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: Possibly American\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Late Victorian\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: The Hutton Collection\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1891\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidths: 10”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeights: 20” or 27” with chains (each)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe rare and unusual pair of hanging apothecary display carboys each of generous ovoid form and formed from thick hand-blown glass with swirling painted surfaces, one in a warm amber tone and the other in a deep malachite green, each mounted within a decorative gilt metal suspension collar with scalloped foliate mount and encircling stabilising band, from which three chains rise to a suspension ring, allowing the bottles to hang freely, the mottled painted surfaces of the glass create a richly mineral appearance reminiscent of onyx or malachite, and when illuminated the glass takes on a soft glowing quality that gives the pieces considerable sculptural presence, the wholes after a patent of June 16th 1891.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth bottles show age and use consistent with their period. The painted glass retains its original finish with areas of light rubbing and surface wear that contribute to a pleasing time-softened patina. The metal mounts show oxidation and surface wear, particularly to the stabilising bands and interior surfaces of the collars, while the suspension chains remain intact. The collars are stamped “PAT. JUNE 16 1891”, indicating the mounts were manufactured under a late-19th-century patent designed to suspend heavy glass vessels safely by distributing the weight across the body of the bottle rather than the fragile neck.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLarge coloured carboys such as these formed part of the visual language of the late nineteenth century chemist or apothecary shop. Displayed prominently in windows, sometimes filled with coloured liquids and sometimes painted to imitate them as in this case, they served as theatrical advertisements for the trade, catching and refracting daylight to create glowing signals visible from the street. Suspended examples allowed light to pass freely through the glass while conserving shelf space, and comparable display bottles are illustrated in Leslie G. Matthews’ reference work Antiques of the Pharmacy, which documents the decorative glassware historically associated with pharmacy interiors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday these scarce surviving examples stand as evocative relics of the Victorian and Edwardian pharmacy interior, with their sculptural mounts, richly coloured glass and patented suspension fittings, the pair possess a strong decorative presence and lend themselves equally well to being hung as originally intended or displayed as striking interior objects.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57897935077757,"sku":"3136","price":2200.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0216\/6074\/files\/pairofhangingapothecarycarboys1.jpg?v=1772715522"},{"product_id":"an-early-20thc-commission-of-control-lunatic-asylums-document-box-by-mansted-of-dublin-c-1913-20","title":"An Early 20thC Commission of Control “Lunatic Asylums” Document Box by Mansted of Dublin c.1913-20","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin: Irish\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod: Edwardian\/Early 20thC\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: Unknown\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate: c.1912-20\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeight: 6”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWidth: 16”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDepth: 10.5”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe rare and historically evocative tooled black leather document box bearing the punched inscription “Commission of Control \u0026amp; Correspondence – Lunatic Asylums” to the top, the case of sloping rectangular form retaining its original textured black finish with raised border to the lid, the now vacant box fitted with the original manufacturer’s label reading “Mansted, Manufacturer, 90 Grafton Street, Dublin,” while the lock plate being stamped for “S. Mordan \u0026amp; Co., London – Warranted”, the whole used to organise storage of official papers and correspondence for the management of records relating to British mental asylums.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition is consistent with prolonged institutional use. The leather surface displays expected wear, scuffs, and abrasions accumulated over many decades displaying a beautifully timeworn aesthetic of long service, with the carrying handle now lacking. The structure remains sound and the original fittings survive, including the lock mechanism and maker’s plate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor collectors of medical or institutional history this is actually more interesting than a generic Victorian document box, because it ties directly to the 1913 reform of mental health administration, the centralised state oversight of asylums and the transitional period before the term “mental hospital” replaced “lunatic asylum”.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Commissioners in Lunacy, later evolving into the Board of Control, were the government body responsible for the oversight and regulation of mental asylums across England and Wales during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Objects associated with the administration of these institutions are rare survivals and offer a tangible connection to the complex bureaucratic system that governed the treatment and supervision of mental illness during the Victorian and Edwardian era. Boxes like this were typically used for incoming correspondence files, meaning it likely once contained letters from individual asylums reporting incidents, admissions, deaths, escapes, or inspections; essentially the paper trail of the Victorian asylum system, which adds a wonderfully dark historical layer to the piece. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe case itself was manufactured by Mansted of 90 Grafton Street, Dublin, a maker of office and document equipment, while the lock was supplied by S. Mordan \u0026amp; Co. of London, a highly respected maker founded in the early nineteenth century and best known for producing finely engineered metal desk accessories, locks, writing instruments, and administrative equipment. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA compelling and scarce institutional artefact combining strong historical associations with a beautifully timeworn aesthetic, and, with pieces connected to the administration of lunatic asylums rarely appearing on the market, this a particularly intriguing decorative curiosity.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Curios","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57918524686717,"sku":"3138","price":420.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0216\/6074\/files\/lunaticasylumdeedsbox1.jpg?v=1773227126"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.doeandhope.com\/en-fr\/collections\/curios\/sub-religion-relics.oembed","provider":"Doe \u0026 Hope","version":"1.0","type":"link"}