Antique Porcelain Repair

Long ago before epoxy glues or super glues, staple or metal clamp repair was used to repair broken china. Like a birth certificate, this type of repair is proof of these pieces' age. It started in ancient China and began as the preferred repair in Europe in the 1600's.  Metal smiths or jewelers of the period did the repair. This beautiful soup bowl was made by the Meissen Porcelain Factory in Meissen, Germany circa 1825. The owner of this piece must have really treasured it to have such a repair done. I  wonder what the cost was to do such a repair? 
Grammy M  

Roses are red, Violets are blue..

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Violets are in bloom everywhere in my daughter’s yard. As I was watching my grandsons crush a few of the delicate blooms beneath their feet, I thought of the Victorian women collecting these flowers to turn into potpourri.  When I was antiquing several years ago I came across a 'violet' bowl with a beautifully hand-painted bird on it. The bowl, made in 1891, is as delicate as the flower and rimmed with gold. The women would put freshly picked violets in the bowl, leaving them to dry. Perhaps next time I’m visiting my daughter I’ll pick a few.  


Grammy M 

A Lovely Spoon

The "Love" Spoon
Circa 1890

All these beautiful birds on our blog reminded me of a lovely spoon in my collection. This sterling silver "Love" Spoon was created by leading jewelers of the time.  What a wonderful spoon for the newly engaged young lady, the bride, the friend; or for a mother and father to give to their boy or girl as a token of their love for them. On the handle is a love-knot, and the figure of a dove which represents true love encircled by forget-me-nots. The bowl is in the shape of a heart with "Love" in raised letters in the center.

Grammy M

Sterling Silver Thermometer Case

A must have for the elegant sickroom: A sterling silver thermometer case circa 1904, which held the standard glass thermometer. The victorians had something for everything. Perhaps by having a beautiful container for the thermometer, they thought it would help to make you feel better sooner! Circa 1894, a sterling silver case similar to this one had the thermometer attached to the lid with a chain and pin. Those were worn on nurses' uniforms. This was a truly unique garage sale find for five dollars.

Grammy M