Lot 67: A Collection of Embossed Brass and Copper Decorative Wall Plaques and Fireplace Accessories
An assortment of decorative metalware, primarily featuring thin-gauge embossed brass and copper-toned wall plaques along with cast brass fireplace tools. The collection includes at least seven circular wall plaques of varying diameters, each featuring high-relief traditional scenes. One large plaque depicts a multi-masted sailing ship on a textured sea, while others show rustic figurative scenes, including a man in historical costume playing a lute before a timber-framed building, and a group of three figures in folk dress walking near a cottage. The plaques are finished with decorative borders, including rope-twist and gadrooned edges. Also included are two brass fireplace tools: one featuring a cast handle in the form of a standing figure and another with a pierced scrolling terminal. Several plaques bear small rectangular yellow adhesive labels with handwritten numbers, and one plaque has a circular white adhesive label. The lower portion of the figurative scene on the plaque with three figures contains embossed characters, but they are not legible as a specific name or mark.
Condition report:
The items exhibit general surface oxidation, tarnish, and patina consistent with age (photo 1). Some pieces show a bright polished finish while others have darkened considerably with areas of verdigris, particularly within the recessed areas of the embossed scenes. The thin-gauge metal of the plaques shows minor rim dings and shallow dents around the edges. The fireplace tools show signs of use including surface wear and darkening to the metal shanks and terminals.
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