FLASH COMICS #1 ASHCAN EDITION CGC 9.6 1939

Flash Comics Ashcan Edition V1#1 (DC, 1939) CGC NM+ 9.6 Off-white pages.

In late 1939, DC and Fawcett, coveting this title, each raced to get its own ashcan version printed and a copyright secured. Each succeeded in printing an ashcan, but DC beat Fawcett to the punch, ever so barely, and gained the copyright to Flash Comics. The title became one of DC's mainstay Golden Age series, and, later, in 1956, the prime namesake character, The Flash, was instrumental in launching the Silver Age. This COMIC was acquired from long-time Golden Age DC Editor/Production Manager Sol Harrison, who was an excellent custodian of the rare copy. At NM+ 9.6, this beauty is not only the highest-graded DC ashcan known, it may be the highest-graded copy of any ashcan. The cover is a Leo O'Mealia creation for Adventure Comics #41, and the interior was lifted from All-American Comics #8, which featured the first appearance of the Ultra Man

THIS ASHCAN IS THE VERY FIRST DC FLASH COMICS EDITION, IT WAS USED TO PATENT THE TITLE.

THERE ARE ONLY 6 KNOWN TO EXIST.

THIS IS THE HIGHEST GRADE ONE 9.6.

WHICH THERE IS ONLY ONE OF.

ROBB cigar store indian statue antique tobacco sign vtg buffalo bill circus art

Samuel Anderson Robb (1851–1928)
Indian Warrior ~ Circa 1885
Life-size Cigar Store Indian Countertop Store Display


Pictured here next to a standard size 19th century tobacco humidor.

Early American folk art at it's very finest. 19th century lifelike tobacco store prop. He was designed to sit on the counter and interact with customers, giving them a menacing glance as they nervously made their purchases! We are attributing the carving to Samuel A. Robb of New York City who is best known for his cigar store indian & circus carvings.

His red, white & blue, circusy and cigar-shaped braids identify him as American Plains Indian. Chief Sitting Bull was one of the most photographed people in the World. Those photos (always with both braids forward) were most certainly the inspiration for this bust: Sitting Bull, the fierce young warrior, as he would have appeared at the battle of Little Bighorn. Because of Little Bighorn, Sitting Bull went on to become the Star of a circus, "Buffalo Bill's Wild West". The bigger-than-life, cigar smoking, Buffalo Bill Cody was the ultimate entrepreneur and boxes of Buffalo Bill, Col. Cody, Gen. Custer and Sitting Bull cigars were sold under numerous cowboy & indian brand names. Most notably through New York City's Foster-Hilson & Co., located on the same island and just 3miles from the workshop of Samuel A. Robb.

$1,500,000.00 US ($1.5mil)

Original paint, as it left the artist's studio. Online you can view close-ups of Robb's Lord Dundreary and it's a close match to this carving, the hair, etc, though ours, with his eyes full of life, menacing scowl and carved hairy eyebrows is far superior. But what most separates this carving from his Lord Dundreary, and all other trade carvings, is that they were given fresh coats of paint each year, losing the detailed carving. The original studio paint sets ours apart from all others (*Santa aside).

 A tobacciana /circus crossover and true historic figure, superior carving and original paint: surely one of finest & most important Cigar Store Indians ever to reach a public market. Remarkable condition with minor dings and minor wear to the paint. Measures about 16 1/2" tall. The stash box/humidor is shallow at about 1 1/2" deep. Shipping will be $14.95 to any U.S. zipcode ($45.00 foreign).

NOTE: our asking price reflects what Robb carvings (or better) bring at the major auction houses: Indian Princess ($750,000.00) ~ Santa ($875,000.00). Arrangements can be made if, prior to purchase, you, or your appraiser, would like to examine the piece in person. We can meet anywhere in the greater Puget Sound area.

There were a small number of late 19th century, 2nd generation, trade-figure carvers that could have carved this bust. Of those carvers, Robb stands out as the most logical choice. Original paint is unheard-of, Robb's *Santa is a rare exception. Online, a major auction site lets you magnify his Santa carving and when comparing the detailed hair lines in Santa's beard to the hair lines on our carving, most would agree, our carving stands out as far superior. And again, around the eyes our piece is far superior. So, while almost certainly circa 1885 (Sitting Bull's circus period), the superior carving would suggest that our bust could-well-have-been carved by a 1st generation master ship-carver such as Thomas V. Brooks (d.1895) or Wilhelm C. Demuth (d.1911). Robb apprenticed under both.

Another possibility is Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Sitting Bull toured with Buffalo Bill in 1885 but, out of respect for Custer's widow, Buffalo Bill didn't start reenacting the Battle of Little Bighorn (the death of Custer scene) until 1888. The Mercer Museum holds a weathered-outdoor Buffalo Bill 'cigar store indian' and that carving very-much resembles our bust in that it is also 'lifelike' (were they carved as a set?). The Mercer believes their carving stood in front of a Philadelphia tobacco shop during Buffalo Bill's Wild West Pennsylvania tour in 1899 and are attributing the carving to one of three carvers: Samuel H. Sailor, James Brown or Francis Jacob Deker. Did our carving sit on the interior counter of that same store?



The 19th century Yellowstone geyser painting seen in the photo above is not included in this sale. It was painted in 1885 by an early American explorer on a very large & rarest cigar box lid. The painting is also for sale so be sure to visit our eBay store where we are currently offering a nice selection of several other hugely important and historically significant pieces of Art. A five pound sterling silver "Bug Basket" from Buckingham Palace, the most-prized possession of the last reigning monarch of The Kingdom of Hawai'i, an artifact from The White House and Porcellian Club (the birthplace of Facebook), the first man to the moon's 1st appearance in Space and an authentic Witch coven's serving charger are but a few of our most interesting pieces.

THE GREATEST SCIENCE FICTION/FANTASY MOVIE POSTER COLLECTION AVAILABLE WORLDWIDE DAY EARTH STOOD STILL -FORBIDDEN PLANET -WAR OF WORLDS!

 

* * * * *

THE GREATEST MOVIE POSTERS FOR SALE!

    A Trip to the Moon          The Day the Earth Stood Still          War of the Worlds          The Thing          When Worlds Collide          Forbidden Planet          Mighty Joe Young          The Man From Planet X          Star Wars   

* * * * * * * "These posters are not for everyone - They're for people who only want the best!"* * * * * * * *

The following 9 posters constitute arguably the greatest science fiction/fantasy film poster collection in the world.  Certainly, one couldn't say they have the greatest science fiction/fantasy collection without them. 8 of the 9 posters are unique and are the only originals known to exist. All 9 of these posters transcend the movie poster field. An entire business can be created around these  posters. They  would certainly make an overwhelming public display. The magnitude and  importance of these artifacts warrant presentation at the Smithsonian Institute  or The Museum of Modern Art. These are among the rarest and finest movie  posters that do exist worldwide!

#1 - 1914 - A TRIP TO THE MOON - 1-sheet (27 1/4 by 40 1/2 inches) - Here is truly one the earliest - if not the earliest - most imaginative pieces of science fiction poster artwork ever discovered: an original 1914 one-sheet for “A Trip to the Moon.” This amazing artifact has an unusual history, which represents the best in early cinema, science fiction, and motion picture animation:

There are very few things in life that garner unanimous consent; man’s liking of the moon is undoubtedly one of them. In 1865, Jules Verne tapped into this phenomenon of human interest with his groundbreaking novel, “From Earth to the Moon,” which is often cited as being seminal in establishing and popularizing science fiction as a literary genre. Thirty-seven years later, in 1902, another Frenchman, Georges Méliès, applied the same premise to motion pictures with his historic film, “A Trip to the Moon.” The film became a motion picture sensation, securing its place in history as being the first movie title to achieve worldwide fame.

Méliès was not the only first-generation filmmaker to cash in on his film’s popularity; Thomas Edison, Sigmond Lubin (sometimes spelled Siegmund), and a host of other motion picture players at the time, were cited for illegally duplicating and distributing “A Trip to the Moon” throughout the Americas. Georges Méliès promptly responded by sending his brother here to the United States to stop the pirating of his hit creation. The Méliès brothers subsequently prevailed in the US courts – many of the copyright laws that still stand today were implemented because of that initial effort. Nevertheless, they were unsuccessful in actually stopping the movie from being illegally distributed. Additionally, Sigmund Lubin, of the Lubin films credited on this poster, decided that he wasn’t going to be stopped in exploiting the popularity of the widely familiar title. He figured out an innovative way of doing it without paying Méliès any royalties.

Lubin, from the very earliest days of film, was an innovator and pioneer in the medium. He’s credited with manufacturing and selling the first motion picture projector ever offered for sale, and so, continuing with that pioneer spirit, he rendered one of the earliest FULLY animated films ever produced, an American version of “A Trip to the Moon.” Animated films were extraordinarily unusual for the time. The production is so early in the history of motion picture animation that it was released to the public the same year as - six months prior to - the cinematic release of Windsor McCay’s “Gertie the Dinosaur” – which is often (incorrectly) sighted as the beginning of movie animation – making this the earliest movie poster to ever surface representing a significant title in animation.

Besides the purposeful and obvious intent of creating confusion with the popular Méliès’ film, this poster’s artwork and graphic design is notable for being unusual for several other important reasons. Few films back in 1914 carried any unique elements. There were no movie stars or well-known feature films. Charlie Chaplin and “A Birth of a Nation” had not yet come on the scene, and so few film posters expended much attention or space towards highlighting the name of the movie as a headline attraction. Happily, this poster is a rare exception, resulting in an emboldened definition and refined clarity in the title treatment that’s decades ahead of its time. Yet, the artwork of the moon itself is rendered in a style patterned after 19th Century classic illustration design. These contrasting sensibilities add wonderfully to yet, perhaps, the most unusual element featured on this early 1910’s poster - futuristic outer space travel. Worldwide, there are no posters know to exist on the Méliès version of “A Trip to the Moon,” and, it’s highly unlikely that there were any ever made for it. Almost all the known surviving examples of film posters produced during that earliest period in motion picture history (when Méliès produced his film) advertise the new and novel medium of film itself, showing nothing but a projector and/or an audience viewing a generic projection. And so, finding any early turn of the century film poster with any specific imagery from a movie (especially depicting space travel) would be an extraordinary event. Science fiction was in its infancy when this poster was printed, making this one of the finest and earliest representations ever discovered.

Lubin spared no expense in producing this poster. The fine stone lithograph has unusual elements seldom seen on any poster, printed in any era! The white color within all the artwork is printed white, meaning it’s actual white ink printed on top of the other colors. It’s NOT the white of the paper. This extra technique in the printing process creates a dimensional effect, which helps to give the poster a true surreal presence, adding nicely to the many otherworldly elements shown on this charming antique treasure. The A.B.C. Co. in Cleveland Ohio is credited with making the poster, which was printed by the Otis Litho. Co.

This movie poster’s obvious significance as an early science fiction artifact is undeniable, yet at the same time it represents the beginnings of motion pictures and film animation like no other. An earlier, or more important example, of any kind, has not come up for sale anywhere. This poster is unique, being the only surviving original known, and it’s likely to stay that way. Nearly 100% of all posters made prior to 1915 are now lost. Only a few handfuls still exist today, mostly on insignificant, unknown conventional films. With animation (and science fiction) now dominating the film industry – as the most popular genres – this item continues to grow in importance. It’s projected that, in years to come, the vast majority of all films will consist of being (in one form or another) a vast majority of all animation. Besides its tradition of honoring the animated short subject, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences recognized this growing trend back in 2003 by permanently adding a new major category to their globally watched Academy Awards telecasts – Best Animated Feature Film, and so this poster will only grow in importance as animation takes over the industry.

#2 - 1951 - THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL - 24-sheet - The 1950s were not all "Happy Days," the war was over but the aftershock was still very present. Post-WWII paranoia spawned from the fear of the new atomic age. This prompted a wave of science fiction cinema, exploiting the nightmare proposition of annihilation and radiological mutation.
The Day the Earth Stood Still, granddaddy of the 1950s films, is one of the few movies to change cinema - it was the Star Wars of its day. The Day the Earth Stood Still holds up well as a classic, it's still very relevant and entertaining today. This poster shows all of the main elements: the robot, the girl, the government, and, pandemonium - as alien forces grip the world! Robert Wise's best film.

It's a well known researched fact that the studios typically designed their poster campaigns - STARTING FIRST - with the 24-sheet billboard designs. The result being that the 24-sheet would most often have best and the strongest images. This collection of posters more than proves that point. This "The Day the Earth Stood Still" couldn't be more spectacular, as a more fantastic poster does not exist on any title! This poster is also as rare it they get - being THE SINGLE ONLY ORIGINAL KNOWN TO EXIST WORLDWIDE! It's not surprising as the 24-sheet posters are the rarest poster size. Very few 24-sheets survived on any films, only several hundred were originally printed. Most were destroyed in their original outing - when they were pasted-up on billboards, or displayed on dead walls throughout the city. They'd even use the 24-sheet posters by pasting them to the sides of trucks. It's remarkable this poster survived. The story of how it was rescued is impressive:

The 24-sheet billboard posters in this collection were actually obtained by one of the pioneer movie poster collectors back in the early 1950s, when almost no one in the United States collected posters! 24-sheets are nearly nonexistent on any film. The only reason this group has survived was because they were originally purchased directly from the poster exchange back in the 1950's by this collector - at the time when the films were originally released!  Pretty remarkable for someone to have that foresight over six decades ago. This group has remained intact for over 60 years, making this one of the oldest collections of movie posters ever saved here in the United States. The poster measures approximately 9-feet by 20-feet. I had it linen-backed in one piece (WITH NO RESTORATION), and so it's ready for display. The photo I posted was taken with a 35mm film camera, so it's a little grainy, especially on the robot - but you can still see the glory. "Klaatu barada nikto."

#3 - 1953 - THE WAR OF THE WORLDS - 24-sheet - For just plain style this poster wins the prize! Remarkable artwork coupled with the fantastic title treatment add beautifully to the legend that is The War of the Worlds. It began as classic novel by H.G. Wells, then it was turned it into the most listened to and talked about radio play of the century by Orson Welles. Fifteen years later, George Pal made this classic film version. "The War of the Worlds" clearly is one of the most important and enduring stories and at the top of the 1950s science fiction movie genera.

As a note of fact: The 24-sheet posters in this collection were ALL printed sharper than their smaller 1-sheet counterparts. Different printing presses of higher quality were used. The War of the Words is a great example of the superior resolution. On the 1-sheet, the two human characters are soft. If you've ever seen the one-sheet you know what I'm talking about, it's one big BLUR! That's why the one sheet on this title does not sell for more money, it's uninspiring in it's execution. This 24-sheet is just the opposite - It's razor crisp!  In fact, upon close-up inspection, the images (down to the tiniest detail) are clear. I've posted a direct high-resolution scan of the image at the bottom of the poster (see photo #10) to show you just how sharp this amazing treasure really is. If you own the blurry one sheet you might not want to look at this photo, it will likely upset you. This poster was never used and measures approximately 9 feet by 20 feet. This War of the Worlds 24-sheet poster is also the only original that is known to exist.

#4 - 1951 - THE THING - 24 sheet - Howard Hawks' 1950's masterpiece! AKA - The Thing From Another World. This production is noted for having the first space monster on film, as well as being rumored to have had Orson Welles' input on set during filming. A classic film and a classic poster! This is another example of how the 24-sheet design is far superior to the smaller (blurry) paper. The exquisite sharpness brings the bloody letters to life when viewed in person. It's impressive and effective - A GREAT piece of movie art! This poster is unused and measures approximately 9 feet by 20 feet. It's the only original known to exist.
#5 - 1951 - WHEN WORLDS COLLIDE - 24-sheet - One of cinema's first disaster films. This early  George Pal science fiction won an Academy award for special effects back in  1951. A breathtaking poster with tons of impact! What an amazing display! A great companion to the rest  of the posters in this offering. This poster is unused and measures approximately 9 feet by 20 feet. It's the only original known to exist.
#6 - 1956 - FORBIDDEN PLANET - 24 sheet -  No serious science fiction collection is complete without this title.  LEGENDARY! Shakespeare's The Tempest in space. The definitive robot (Robby the  Robot) on the definitive robot poster. AMAZING is the word! However, the photo I've posted is not too amazing, but it gives you a  general idea of the colossal nature of this item. However, I've posted direct high-resolution scans of the poster (see photo #11) so you can see how nice it truly is. Again, this is the only original known  to exist, measuring approximately 9 feet  by 20 feet. Robby the Robot at his best!
#7 - 1949 - MIGHTY JOE YOUNG - 12-sheet - This iconic image is from the same filmmakers of King Kong. This "kinder gentler" version is loaded with lots of charm. It made a star of Terry Moore and showcased the great classic animation created by the master, Ray Harryhausen.  The film developed a tremendous following throughout the years, largely due to holiday television broadcasts. The story became so popular a remake was produced some years back.

In 1933, when King Kong was first release, RKO issued a special upright six-sheet to promote the spectacular colossal nature of King Kong.  In 1949, they topped themselves and invented this unique upright 12-sheet poster king - Specially just for the original 1949 first release of Mighty Joe Young. Amazing artwork - The best for this film!!!

This poster was found in a collection of rare circus posters, and is the only original known to exist! It is even RARER than the original 1933 King Kong one sheet and three sheet posters as well as being equally as rare as the Kong upright 6 sheet - Quite a find! In fact, it's the only upright 12-sheet poster known to exist on ANY film! " The poster towers at approximately 12 feet tall and was never used.

#8 - 1951 - THE MAN FROM PLANET X - United  Artists Lobby Standee cut-out Kit - "The WEIRDEST Visitor the Earth has ever  seen!" One of the most popular 1950's movie titles and poster images. Here  is the biggest of them all! This display when assembled stands 3 inches shy of  10 feet tall! 117 inches by 82 inches to be exact.

  The kit includes the original United Artists MAN FROM PLANET X - 24 inch by 82  inch title banner. It also includes the 3 panel (24-sheet)  image of the man from planet X (see photo #12). This is the left side of  the 24 sheet poster printed by the studio. United Artists along with ALL the  major studios designed and produced their 24 sheet posters to be displayed in  full AND to be made into cut-out lobby displays. This information comes from  the pressbooks. It is quite common for pressbooks to  show illustrations on how to make the cutouts. This poster WAS DESIGNED TO BE A  CUT-OUT. This section was found together with an additional small bottom piece  (see photo #12 of the 4 sections you will get). This is the only original known to exist. The colors and the printing are fantastic. The standee  would need to be assembled by a qualified expert. The photo pictured of the  cut-out (photo #8) was digitally assembled to show what the poster will  look like when mounted. IT HAS NOT BEEN CUT-OUT YET! This display is one  of the strongest entertainment memorabilia items to be offered on eBay.
#9 - 1977 - Star Wars - 24 Sheet - Certainly, no Science Fiction collection can omit the the genera's most important title: Star Wars, and, if you're looking for the ULTIMATE Star Wars poster, well - YOU JUST FOUND IT! This more than fantastic 24-sheet has artwork rendered by the legendary poster artist Tom Jung. It's another amazing artifact of cultural significance. It was made in 1977 to advertise the upcoming film Star Wars, produced by 20th Century-Fox - The rest of the story we all know. Star Wars became a force of world changing history that still impacts everyone on the planet today. This is the beginning of that movement. OWN IT!

This 24-sheet billboard poster size was only issued when the film first came out. There are less than ten of these known WORLDWIDE! That's RARE by any standard! Many consider it the HOLY GRAIL of ALL Film Posters. It's definitely the MOTHER of ALL Star Wars posters. This poster, as is the case with all the 24-sheet posters in this collection, was printed in 12 sections. When assembled, it measures 19 feet 7 inches by 8 feet 9 inches. I know this because about 25 years ago I obtained another one, which, in 1999, I had professionally linen-mounted in one solid piece. I carefully measured it then, before it was cut down from the stretcher. Photo #9 shown here on eBay is of that poster mounted. I went to great lengths to have it professionally photographed back then, and so I'm able to provide this great photo now - you can really see how stellar of an item this original truly is. The poster you'll be buying is folded down and is still UNBACKED ORIGINAL STATE! That's how it was issued back in 1977, folded. Photo #12 shows the folded sections you'll be getting. Photo #12 also shows the stamp that's on the back of the 24-sheet. The stamp was put there to show the paper hanger how it goes together. This, as well as all the original 12 and 24-sheet posters in this collection can easily be mounted in one section, but I'll leave that decision up to the new owner. As a service, I can provide the winner with all the necessary information on where and how this can be done for them, if they so choose to have them mounted. Many collectors like to keep these type of items in their original state.

☆ Please write with any questions. If you're in the market for top quality original vintage movie posters or Star Wars, then please click here

    A Trip to the Moon          The Day the Earth Stood Still          War of the Worlds          The Thing          When Worlds Collide          Forbidden Planet          Mighty Joe Young          The Man From Planet X          Star Wars   


* * * * * * * "These posters are not for everyone - They're for people who only want the best!"* * * * * * * *

Antique Custom Made Pocket watch Badollet Patek Phillippe RARE Collectible

Very RARE Custom Made Pocket Watch. One of a kind.  Excellent condition. Runs like clockwork! Half of the proceeds of this watch will go to Helen Keller International since the watch is Swiss, American and I strongly support the many great doctors who study ways to cure preventable blindness in Switzerland, America or any country for that matter. Helen Keller said “The best and most beautiful things in this world cannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart.”  If you even get close to this watch you can feel in your heart it is something rare and special!

This watch appears to have a Patek Phillippe Movement with a Badollet Hallmark. The case is from Brooklyn Case Co. The watch is in excellent condition and is very beautiful. No appraiser has been able to tell me the exact story. The case and the movement have the same serial number which appraisers say is rare. I could try to explain more but I believe Mr. Badollet may have used this watch to help Mr. Phillippe create the PERFECT pocket watch! Since Badollet was founded in 1635 and both are considered top of class in watch making history throughout the world this watch has been one of the most interesting items I have obtained. Studying how this masterpiece came to fruition and when exactly continues to be an adventure. The exact story we will eventually find out, but the mystique of this watch with appraisers telling me the movement is classic Patek, along with the Badollet Hallmark and Case from America (Brooklyn, New York) make it a must have for pocket watch enthusiasts.  I do know one thing. There is only one watch like this in the world (as far as I know and excluding any possible fake copies if they existed). The watch belongs in a museum. It is one of the most beautiful pieces of art I have ever seen. Depending on how this auction goes I may not take it down before the end of the auction though. So if you are serious please start bidding. Help a great cause. If there are zero bids a day or two before the end or so I will take it down. Locked away in an underground vault is a shame for something so beautiful. So I’m going to sell it but only if people start bidding.  I’m just going ahead and being up front which is how I always try and be.

ANTIQUE LIPPO VANNI 14TH C. ORIGINAL JESUS OIL PAINTING OLD RARE POWER ART RELIC

NOTE ARTERATURE HAS USED THE WORDS "STOPS EVIL" IN THE TITLE OF THIS PAINTINGS POST IN THE PAST.THIS IS DUE TO THE OBVIOUS EVIDENCE IN WHAT THIS SACRED PIECE DEPICTS ON EACH PANEL BACKSIDE.THIS PIECE IS HIGHLY DEVOTIONAL IN WHAT IS DEPICTED FROM THE FRAME TO THE PAINTING INDEED AND MADE BY A GREAT.BUT WHAT IS CONTAINED WITHIN THE WOOD (BACKSIDE) IS WHAT CLEARLY SPEAKS UNIQUE,HOLY,SACRED AND RARE TO THE TOP COLLECTOR,CHURCH OR MUSEUM.THERE ARE MULTIPLE FACES THAT ARE NOT DRAWN IN ANY WAY BUT ALL NATURAL WHICH IS UNHEARD OF.THESE PERFECT DEPICTIONS IN IT'S RARITY ALONE WOULD SELL FOR A UNREAL PRICE IN THE RIGHT MARKET.TAKE FOR EXAMPLE THERE ARE NATURAL HEART SHAPES IN WOOD THAT AMAZE COLLECTORS,NATURAL WOODEN SCULPTURES THAT SEEMED TO HAVE FORMED HOLY SYMBOLS OR ICONS THAT ARE VERY HIGHLY COLLECTED.AND YOU MUST KEEP IN MIND THE CLOTH THAT MILLIONS OF PEOPLE VISIT EACH YEAR WHICH IS SAID TO CONTAIN THE OUTLINE OF JESUS'S FACE.HERE WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT IT THIS MASTERPIECE IS VERY MUCH ON THE SAME LEVEL AND JUST AS AMAZING.THESE ARE ALL NATURAL CLEAR FACES OF BOTH HUMAN AND WHAT APPEARS TO BE UN-HUMAN FACES AND MORE THAN ONE.ONCE PUT UNDER A BLACK LIGHT THERE IS BOUND TO BE MORE THIS IS A PUZZLE AND MENT TO BE STUDIED FIGURED OUT.WITH CLEAR EVIDENCE OF CANDLE SMOKE THIS PIECE WAS IN A CHAPEL OR CHURCH MORE THAN LIKELY AND VERY WELL COULD HAVE BEEN A RELIC USED IN THE PROCESS TO RID THE UNHOLY.THIS IS JUST A THOUGHT AS ARTERATURE IS BAFFLED AT WHAT IS BEING REVEALED LITERALLY FROZEN IN TIME ON EACH WOODEN PANEL BACKSIDE.ALSO ONE MUST KEEP IN MIND THE ORIGIN OF THE ARTIST,SERIOUS BELIEFS IN RELIGION AND DOCUMENTED INSTANCES CONSISTED OF THE VATICAN CHURCH OR ITALY IN GENERAL.Lippo Vanni (Lippo di Vanni) was an Italian painter and illuminator.He is documented as a painter and illuminator in Siena between 1344 and 1375,and in 1360 and 1373 he took part in the General Council of Siena.The earliest work attributed to him is the illumination of the choirbooks for the Collegiata at San Gimignano (c.1340-42,San Gimignano,Museo Arte Sacra),in which the supple movement and individuality of figures and scenes already show the expressive quality characteristic of Lippo's later documented work.In these illuminations the decorated initial is conceived as an aperture and not a framing device,and even principal figures are often only partially visible.Lippo treated the historiated initial in different ways in each major series of illuminations.In a Gradual for the Collegiata at Casole d'Elsa,near Siena,bold and brilliant colour contrasts and harmonies unify the letter and its historiation;architectural details are more complex and are used to create an impression of greater depth.This spatial effect is undoubtedly a response to the art of Pietro Lorenzetti,as is the treatment of form;the figures,although often dynamic,are more compact and solid, and their faces are distinctly modelled.Between 1360 and 1370 Lippo Vanni executed a cycle of fresco paintings for the church of the rural hermitage of San Leonardo al Lago just outside Siena.Painted on the walls and entrance arch of the chancel of this church,the scheme includes narrative scenes from the life of the Virgin,such as the Presentation of the Virgin in the Temple,the Annunciation,the Betrothal of the Virgin, and the Assumption of the Virgin (over the chancel arch,now badly damaged).In 1352 Lippo Vanni executed a Coronation of the Virgin for the Biccherna.A Biccherna is a small painted panel,initially created as a cover for official documents of the civic government of Siena between the 13th and 17th centuries.The Italian word derives from the chief financial office of Siena,the Biccherna,a name that first appears at the beginning of the 13th century;it was supposedly inspired by the imperial treasury of the Blachernae Palace in Constantinople.The term has also been extended to designate painted covers and small panels connected with other Sienese civic offices and institutions,such as the tax office (Gabella),the hospital of S Maria della Scala,the Opera del Duomo and various lay confraternities.Most biccherne,however are from the office of the Biccherna itself.WHAT YOU ARE VIEWING IS A UNSEEN RARE ESTATE FIND CAPTIVATING 100% FACE TO FACE.THIS MASTERPIECE IS ALSO 100% ORIGINAL (TEMPERA AND GOLD GROUND ON PANEL).A VERY FINE EXAMPLE OF EARLY EVOLUTION OF ART OR HISTORY OF ILLUMINATION AT IT'S BEST AND MADE WITH MEANING.3 WOODEN PANELS PERFECTLY PLACED SHOWING TOP CRAFTSMAN WORK OF A GREAT WORKSHOP OF THE DAY.THE FRAME IS THE PANEL IT'S SELF POINTING 100% TO AEDICULAR TECHNIQUES ONLY FOR GREAT WORK AND PAID FOR USING GREAT CURRENCY FOR THIS DAY AND AGE.BOASTING NOT ONLY A PERFECT PUZZLE OF A FRAME DESIGNED TO INCREASE THE ILLUMINATION EFFECT BY LOWERING THE INNER CENTER TO FORM AN ARCH LATER ILLUMINATED IN GOLD,BUT AN ICONIC BRIDGE IN ACCENT FORMATION CARVED INTO THE PANEL.THESE ARE ALL OUTSTANDING FACTS BUT GREAT CREDIT CAN ALSO BE GIVEN TO THE HAND CARVED ANGLES IN WHICH HAVE BEEN PLACE IN EACH CORNER.EACH WITH A DIFFERENT MUSICAL INSTRUMENT WOW THE ANGELS ARE ALSO PAINTED IN GOLD TO COMPLIMENT THE EFFECT OF ILLUMINATION.WE ARE NOT SURE OF THIER MATERIAL BUT LOOKS TO BE OF TOP QUALITY YOU CAN SEE GREAT AGE WORN ILLUMINATION THAT AT ONE TIME TOTALLY COVERED THIS PIECE.THIS MASTERPIECE REALLY WAS DESIGNED TO STAND OUT ONCE HUNG.LIPPO VANNI WAS NOT ONLY WELL KNOWN FOR HIS USE OF ILLUMINATION BUT ALSO HIS PERFECT BLEND OF COLOR TO CREATE A ONE OF A KIND PURPLE AND BURGUNDY.WHEN LOOKING AT MADONNA'S DRESS YOU GET THIS BURGUNDY RED TO A PEFECT MATCH AND THE PURPLE USED IN THE BABY JESUS'S CLOTHING IS THAT LIGHT BUT MURKY TONE HE USED.HIDDEN IN THE DARK AREA LOWER OF BABY JESUS'S CLOTHING A HORSE OF SOME SORT CAN BE FAINTLY SEEN A COVER-UP OR MENT TO BE SEEN UNDER BLACK LIGHT? VERY NICE ATTRIBUTE.WE ACTUALLY NEVER REALLY NOTICED THIS HIDDEN FIGURE UNTIL PHOTO WAS TAKEN AND IT SHOWED VIBRANTLY.WE THEN DOUBLED BACK AND LOOKED HARD AT THE BLACK AREA IT WAS BECAUSE IT HAD BEEN PAINTED OVER WAS REASON IT WAS HARD TO SEE.BUT YES INDEED THERE IS A HORSE LIKE FIGURE THERE VERY SURREAL VERY UNIQUE.ALSO NOTE PEEKING THROUGH THE PAINT IS MUCH FAINT ORIGINAL DRAWING COVERED UP I WILL NAME A FEW TO GIVE YOU AN IDEA.1.LOOKING AT BABY JESUS'S RIGHT EYEBROW YOU CAN CLEARLY SEE THAT VANNI'S INITIAL IDEA WAS TO MAKE THE EYEBROW LONGER AS MADONNA'S.2.TAKE A LOOK AT MADONNA'S SMILE OR BETTER YET THE LIPS,TO THE RIGHT YOU WILL SEE A LINE THAT ONCE EXTENDED ALL OF THE WAY ACROSS.VANNI REPOSITIONED HER MOUTH AS HE DID NOT WANT THIS DEPICTION OF MADONNA FACING AWAY FROM THE VIEWER.POSITIONING HER LIPS DOWNWARD WOULD HAVE MENT THE EYES IN PROPER FASHION WOULD HAVE TO BE FACING AWAY FROM THE VIEWER OR DOWNWARD THEMSELVES.THERE ARE MADONNA AND CHILD PAINTINGS PAINTED BY LIPPO VANNI THAT INDEED DO DEPICT MADONNA'S MOUTH OR LIPS IN A LOWER POSITION.THE SYMBOLS USED AND DESIGNS DEPICTED ARE ALL STRIKING PROOF TO ADD AUTHENTICITY AND A HUGE COMPLIMENT TO LIPPO VANNI.THIS PIECE APPEARS TO BE UNFINISHED IN MANY WAYS EITHER MENT OR PAYMENT NEVER FULLY TENDERED BUT THIS IS CLEAR THIS IS DEVOTIONAL AND WAS A VERY COSTLY PROJECT.TO DO SO MUCH WORK TO IT'S PANEL ALONE WOULD HAVE NOT BEEN CHEAP AND REALLY MENT SOMETHING TO SOMEONE,SOME CHURCH OR CHAPEL.THERE IS ANOTHER VERY SACRED NOTE I MUST ADD ONCE AGAIN THIS PANEL CONSIST OF 3 PIECES OF WOOD IF YOU LOOK CLOSELY AT THE BACKSIDE DEPICTION THERE IS A ALL NATURAL FACE IN EACH.PLEASE USE THE ZOOM ACTION BUTTON ON THE BACKSIDE PHOTO THEY WILL EASILY BE SEEN.THIS IS TRULY SURREAL BUT REALLY WAS TOTALLY MENT AS THERE IS NO OTHER FACES OR BLEMISHES SHOWING ON EACH BUT THE NORMAL PATTERN REVEALED ONCE A TREE IS CUT.THE FACES GO DIRECTLY ACROSS FROM EACH OTHER STARTING FROM THE RIGHT TO LEFT THE HUGE MOST OBVIOUS FACE IS THE ONE WITH A EVILISH LOOK GRINNING BEARING HIS TEETH A SHARP EAR IS DEPICTED ALSO.ACROSS FROM THAT ONE IS A GHOSTLY LIKE FIGURE WITH DEEP EYES ALMOST AS A MOULD OR JUST APPEARS FROZEN IN TIME.THEN YOU HAVE TO LOOK CLOSE BUT ON THE THIRD PIECE OF WOOD MOVING ONCE AGAIN DIRECTLY ACROSS IN THE LIGHT TANISH SPOT THERE IS A FACE VERY SMALL BUT IN FULL DETAIL.TWO PERFECT EYES CAN BE SEEN A NOSE AND A TWISTED MOUTH.THIS FACE OR FIGURE SEEMS TO BE TORMENTED IN A WAY YOU WILL HAVE TO BE THE JUDGE ON THAT ONE HOWEVER HE DOES NOT LOOK VERY HAPPY AT ALL.VERY UNIQUE THE FACT OF THE LIQUID USED AS SEALANT OF THE WOOD SEEMS TO HAVE MISSED ALL OF THE AREAS CONTAINING THE FACES.THE BACKSIDE ALSO HAS A TAG THAT STATES THE ARTIST'S NAME AS LIPPO VANNI,SEC XIV (WHICH TRANSLATES TO "14TH CENTURY") AND TAVOLA (WHICH TRANSLATES "TABLE") 97 L.WITH MANY OTHER MAJOR WORKS OF THIS ERA BEING KNOWN TO BE FRAMED FROM ROYAL PIECES OF WOOD FROM TABLES THIS COULD BE A MASTERPIECE MADE IN THE SAME MANNER.THIS COULD ALSO STAND FOR THE EXACT LOCATION IN WHICH THIS VERY PIECE WAS STORED THIS FORM IN USE OF WORDING IS ARCHIVAL STATUS (ITALIAN STANDARD).AND WOULD HAVE BEEN HOUSED IN A MUSUEM,CHAPEL OR CHURCH AND WOULD FIT THEIR LOGGING FORMATION.THE TAG IS WORN AND US COLLECTORS KNOW THAT WITH THESE FORM OF TAGS WITH AGE THE TAG DISAPPEARS ALMOST IN CERTAIN AREAS OR CHALKS IN A SENSE WELL YOU DO SEE THIS WITH THIS TAG.OF COURSE THE TAG IS NOT NEAR AS OLD AS THE PIECE IT'S SELF BUT VERY OLD INDEED.THE MEASUREMENTS ARE AS FOLLOWS H- 19 1/2" x W- 12" LENGTH 1 1/4" AND IS REALLY ONE OF HIS BIGGER PIECES REMEMBER HE IS ALSO KNOW FOR BEING A MINIATURIST ALOT OF HIS WORKS ARE SMALLER.THIS PIECE FOR IT'S AGE IS OUTSTANDING WITH EXPECTED MINOR BLEMISHES,CHIPS AND HAIRLINES ALL DEPICTED IN OUR GREAT DETAILED PHOTOS.A FEW MINOR TOUCH UPS AND RE-ILLUMINATION AND AMAZEMENT THIS WILL BE EVEN THOUGH AMAZING IT IS AS OF NOW.ALSO NOTE THE ANGELS HAVE SMALL CHIPS ALL DEPICTED BUT ONCE RE-PAINTED GOLD WILL MEAN NOTHING AS THEY ARE LOVELY IN CURRENT CONDITION.LIPPO VANNI AS MANY OTHER GREATS DID PAINTED MANY VARIATIONS OF A CERTAIN DEPICTION.MADONNA AND CHILD HAVE BEEN PAINTED MANY OF TIMES BY LIPPO VANNI,I WANT TO GIVE YOU A STRIKING EXAMPLE OF ANOTHER PAINTING WITH SAME MIND SET.THE NAME OF THIS PAINTING IS "MADONNA AND CHILD ENTHRONED WITH DONORS AND SAINTS DOMINIC AND ELIZABETH OF HUNGARY" CIRCA 1343 LOCATED AT THE LOWE ART MUSEUM IN CORAL GABLES FLORIDA.THIS PAINTING IS ALSO BY LIPPO VANNI NOTE THAT SHADE GOING FROM MADONNA'S EAR DOWN TO CHIN IS JUST AS IN POSTED ARTWORK.THE SHADE SEEN IN THIS POSTED PAINTING IS LOWER LAYER AND ONCE AGAIN MOST LIKELY WAS MENT TO BE RAN OVER WITH MORE TONE.IN BOTH PAINTINGS GREY SKIN TONE IS USED.IN THIS POSTED PAINTING THAT GREYISH TONE IS SEEN ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF MADONNA'S FACE BUT NEVER FINISHED.ALSO NOTE THE USE OF RED LONG BUT CURLY HAIR DEPICTED IN CORAL GABLES PAINTING.THIS SAME IDEA AND WHAT COULD BE EARLY START OF HIS SUBJECT (JESUS) HAIR FORMATION IS SEEN IN THE HAIR OF THE BABY JESUS IN OUR POSTED PAINTING ALSO.JUST ONCE AGAIN DUE MORE LAYERS OF TONING SPEAKING OF TONING IS IT ALSO IRONIC THAT ANDREA VANNI PAINTS A PANEL PAINTING WITH SIMILAR TONE IN EXACT LOCATIONS.THIS PAINTING IS TITLED "MADONNA IN TRONO COL BAMBINO E UN DONATORE" CIRCA 1390 AND SEEMS TO MIMIC THIS EXACT LIPPO VANNI PAINTING.IN ANDREA VANNI'S PAINTING LOOK AT THE YELLOW UP TOP OF MADONNA'S DRESS RIGHT BEFORE YOU REACH THE BURGUNDY LOWER SAME IDEA DEPICTED IN BOTH PAINTINGS THE MADONNA'S ARE STRIKINGLY SIMILAR ALSO.ARTERATURE WANTS TO STATE THAT FACE TO FACE MADONNAS FACE IS PLUSH THE OVERALL TONING IS AMAZING GREAT WORK BY A GREAT ARTIST PHOTO'S CAN NOT COMPARE TO SEEING THIS PIECE IN PERSON.THIS PIECE SPEAKS OF HOLY WORSHIP CANDLE SMOKE IS MOST LIKEY THE CAUSE FOR IT'S GREAT AGED DARK EDGES.DEVOTIONAL PIECES WERE PREYED OVER DAY AND NIGHT CANDLES ILLUMINATING THE ROOMS THESE PIECES WERE CONTAINED IN.THIS FACT STILL HAPPENS TO THIS DAY AND I'M SURE WILL GO ON FOREVER THIS ALSO ATTRIBUTES TO PROVENCE AND PROPER AGING ERA.CHRISTIE'S HAS GOT A HOLD OF ONE WHICH HAD AN ESTIMATE OF 300k-500k IT SOLD FOR 326,500 EXACTLY.THIS PAINTING'S FRAME ALONE HAS SIGNATURE OF UPMOST IMPORTANCE WITH SACRED MEANING.NOT TO MENTION THE NATURAL FACES THAT SEEM TO HAVE APPEARED INTO THE BACKSIDE WOOD.BUT ITALY IS WELL KNOWN FOR IT'S RELIGIOUS BELIEFS AND TAKING THEM VERY SERIOUS THERE IS REALLY NO TELLING.BUT ONE THING IS EVIDENT THIS PIECE DESERVES A TOP COLLECTOR OR MUSEUM TO HOUSE IT.ONE WHO WILL RESTORE,RE ILLUMINATE AND PRESERVE THIS WONDER AS IT IS TRULY ONE OF A KIND IN ALL RESPECT TO THIS ERA.WE WILL LEAVE THIS RARE PIECE LISTED UNTIL THIS WONDER IS NOTICED WE KNOW THAT COLLECTORS VISIT EBAY OFF AND ON THIS WILL ALLOW MAXIMUM EXPOSURE.BUT WOULD ALSO LIKE TO MENTION THAT WE WILL BE EXHIBITING THIS PIECE ALSO AS REQUEST ARE ALREADY COMING IN.SO PLEASE KEEP THIS IN MIND THAT IF POSTED AS BUY NOW ONLY THAT OTHER NETWORKING METHODS ARE IN MOTION.AS FAIR WARNING BE VERY AWARE THERE COULD BE A CHANCE THAT THIS LOVELY SACRED,BLESSED PIECE OF ART HISTORY COULD SALE AT ANYTIME OFF OF EBAY.ALSO IF MORE PICTURES ARE REQUESTED WE HAVE NO ISSUE AT ALL WITH SENDING YOU MORE PICTURES FROM ANY ANGLE YOU WISH.HERE IS YOUR CHANCE TO ADD A TRUE BLESSING TO YOUR HOME OR COLLECTION.PLEASE READ OUR REVIEWS OUR CUSTOMERS LOVE OUR PROFESSIONAL WAYS,GREAT PACKAGING SKILL AND SPEEDY SHIPPING.IF YOU WOULD VIEW OUR ENTIRE STORE IT WOULD MEAN THE WORLD TO US WE HAVE MUCH TO OFFER TO THE EBAY WORLD BLESS YOU ALL.NOTE ARTERATURE KNOWS THE IMPORTANCE OF YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY AND BELIEVE PROTECTING IT IS A MUST.WITH THAT BEING SAID FULL INSURANCE WILL BE APPLIED TO THE SHIPMENT OF THIS ARTWORK AND SIGNATURE WILL BE REQUIRED ALSO GOOD LUCK BIDDING......UPDATE ARTERATURE REALLY WANTS THIS BLESSED MASTERPIECE IN A TOP COLLECTION OR LOVING HANDS A.S.A.P.IT DOES NOT DESERVE TO BE PLACED IN OUR SAFE STORED FAMILY VAULT.IT IS TRULY AND OBVIOUSLY INTENDED TO BE A SIGN OF THE GOOD IN LIFE,HOPE & RELIGION IN WHICH IS ALWAYS USED AS TOOL AGINST EVIL.IT WOULD REALLY BRING US JOY KNOWING IT WAS NOW BEING PRESERVED AND THOUGHT OF FOR WHAT IT IS IN YOUR HOME,COLLECTION OR NEAREST MUSEUM.WE HAVE NOW APPLIED "FREE INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING" TO THIS ORDER THIS IS LIMITED TIME ONLY.WE WILL UPDATE THIS POST TO LET YOU KNOW OF THE EXACT DATE AS TO WHEN FREE SHIPPING INTERNATIONALLY WILL END.ONCE AGAIN DOMESTIC OR INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING WILL BE COVERED BY FULL INSURANCE AND SIGNATURE WILL BE REQUIRED.ONE OF OUR GREAT SAYINGS IS "WE ARE HERE FOR THE FELLOW COLLECTOR OR LOVER OF FINE ARTS" AND WE TRUTHFULLY ARE....

ANTIQUE BREGUET & FILS, PARIS, N 2430,REPEATER SKELETON GOLD POCKET WATCHE RARE

We are pleased to offer you this antique, gorgeous, absolutely unique, museum 18K solid gold  ''Breguet & Fils", Paris, No. 2430, Repeater Skeleton Pocket Watch, only one on the market ! 

Present watch according its serial number is dated to the end of the XVIII - begining of the XIX Century , please look photos.

Condition :  in working condition, sound loud, case in good condition, please see photos.

We have detailed pictures of the item and they should be considered the part of description !

Material : 18 K gold.

Weight :  88.2 gr.

Measures:  In diameter 57 mm.

Present watch comes from one private collection and represents absolutely collectible value.

RARE RUG SIGNED BY MASTER WEAVER SHEIKH SHAIKH BORANGI MASHAD KHORASAN

All reasonable offers will be considered.
Sheikh Borangi was among the famous master rug weavers of Mashad, Iran. Many experienced antique rug dealers and collectors especially those of Persian heritage, consider Borangi rugs, in general, as among those Mashad rugs that are: "priceless," "first class," "rare masterpieces," "particularly high value," and part of a "magnificent collection"(Hassan Fatemi, Tableau rugs, Hans Saghaei, Rug Firm,  Reza Tabesh, Tabesh Carpet Co.)

According to Persian rug expert Hans Saghaei of Rug Firm, "Mashad rugs are very long-lasting and some of the old pieces, especially if they have a well-known signature, are among the most valuable Persian rugs.  Rugs signed by master weavers such as Sheikh Borangi "hold a particularly high value just because of the signature."

This particular masterpiece is an authentic Borangi.  Please note the skillful weaving and high-quality calligraphy in the signature.  The rug is in antique condition. Consistent with its age, several areas in the rug have significant wear and low pile, resulting in a delightful and authentic patina, while other areas in the rug have an even, medium pile.  I have made every effort to disclose this in the pictures, especially by showing mostly distressed areas. Please view all pictures carefully as they are part of the description.

There is no dearth of character, beauty or romance in this rug.  These sublime characteristics could only be found in an original, and not in a contemporary rug that has undergone an artificial chemical aging process.  A generous size, this beauty is approximately 9'10 x 12'9.5 and would equally look smashing in your home, a museum or a corporate boardroom!

Since this rug has been in my care, it has been lovingly cared for, which means: no shoes, no pets, no smoke, and has been kept rolled up in a climate controlled environment free of bugs, mold and moisture.  It has been professionally dusted, vacuumed and hand-washed the old fashioned way using premium wool care products, and rinsed in free flowing water over and over to ensure a clean and hygienic rug.  It has not been used since it was washed and has been kept rolled up. 

The following excerpt is from a rug expert's website regarding signed rugs:

When you see a Persian rug that has a signature on it, you know you are looking at something truly special. Not all Persian rugs have signatures on them.  Only very few pieces that are painstakingly created by master craftsmen have this special feature on them. There is no mistaking the superiority of these rugs, whether it is in their flawless craftsmanship, the fine quality of the materials used or the outstanding design and color combinations.

Signature rugs are not manufactured by just any ordinary weavers on home-made looms. These rugs are manufactured in special workshops that are owned and operated by a few people who take great pride in their creations and who will not approve of any rug that is anything less than perfect. These workshop owners oversee every aspect of the weaving process and make sure that all processes are in total synchrony so that the end result is 100% perfection.

A Few Interesting Facts about Signed Persian Rugs

The first thing that is taken care of is the recruitment of the weavers. Only highly experienced and skilled weavers are entrusted to work on these special rugs.
Once the weavers are chosen, the next task is to look for talented artists who have already established themselves with the exquisite work they have done. These expert artists are entrusted with the job of designing the patterns of the rug along with the creation of attractive color combinations.
To make the rugs only the finest materials are used. Most of these rugs are made of wool of the best quality available. The wool is dyed into the desired colors depending on the pattern of the rug.
Every stage is closely supervised and managed so that there are no mistakes in understanding or executing the task during any stage.
With so much care and attention being paid to every little aspect of creating the rug, it is not surprising that the final product is a true masterpiece in every sense of the word, from the design and colors to the weave. When this masterpiece is ready for the market, the master weaver is only too happy to proudly sign his name on it with a flourish (Catalina Rugs)
Free shipping fee for continental United States only.  Shipping charges for Guam, Hawaii, Alaska, US territories and overseas customers will vary.  Large freight item. Please contact me to discuss shipping charges.  if you would like to arrange your own shipping with insurance, I will make every effort to accommodate your freight carrier.

Please view all pictures carefully as they are part of the description. I strive for perfect customer service and aim to provide accurate and honest descriptions of all items. Refunds will be issued if the item was grossly misrepresented. Buyer pays return shipping with insurance. Items must be received in the same condition as when I mailed them to you without any damage. Thank you again for your patronage, and please be sure to look at my other items for sale.