Dame Nellie Melba was an Australian opera singer who became one of the most famous sopranos of her time. She was born Helen Porter Mitchell on May 19, 1861, in Richmond, Victoria, Australia.

Melba grew up in a musical family and showed a natural talent for singing from an early age. She studied music in Melbourne and later in Paris, where she made her debut as an opera singer in 1887. She quickly gained a reputation as one of the most talented singers of her generation and was known for her beautiful voice and commanding stage presence.

Melba became a global superstar and performed in some of the world's most famous opera houses, including the Royal Opera House in London and the Metropolitan Opera in New York. She was particularly renowned for her performances of works by composers such as Verdi, Puccini, and Wagner.

Melba was also known for more...

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A very fine rock crystal, enamel and diamond-set desk clock…

Cartier Crystal Enamel Diamond Desk Clock

A very fine rock crystal, enamel and diamond-set desk clock with box, Cartier, numbered 379 and 7137, circa 1915 jewelled lever movement, translucent blue enamel dial on sunburst background, outer gold, rose diamond and white champlevé enamel ring…

An Important gold presentation paperweight depicting Australian…

Gold Presentation Paperweight with Australian Flora and Fauna Motifs

An Important gold presentation paperweight depicting Australian flora and fauna, Hammerton, Geelong, Victoria, 1922 the square base with inscriptions Presented to Dame Nellie Melba O.B.E by the Citizens of Geelong' 'Dame Nellie Melba's Grand Presentation…

A diamond, gem-set and silk brocaded evening clutch bag,…

Cartier Evening Clutch with Diamond and Gem-Set Clasp

A diamond, gem-set and silk brocaded evening clutch bag, Cartier, circa 1930 the clutch decorated with a gold and rose pink foliate pattern, the interior with pink satin lining, completed by a diamond and red gem-set clasp, including a lighter, signed…

A silver gilt presentation dressing mirror, Continental, circa…

Melba's Continental Silver Gilt Presentation Dressing Mirror

A silver gilt presentation dressing mirror, Continental, circa 1900 the silver gilt mirror frame formed as an ovoid laurel wreath, the bottom of which is secured with a bow, inset with diamonds and white sapphires to read To Melba from her company 1904…

A Victorian tortoiseshell writing box the domed lid overlaid…

Melba's Tortoiseshell Writing Box

A Victorian tortoiseshell writing box the domed lid overlaid with the applied silver inscription Melba, opening to reveal an interior separated into compartments lined with red moire silk, containing various note papers bearing the initials NM and Coombe…

A pair of platinum, diamond and carved rock crystal pins,…

Cartier Arrow Pins with Diamonds and Rock Crystal

A pair of platinum, diamond and carved rock crystal pins, Cartier, France, circa 1920 each designed as an arrow, the carved rock crystal flights with platinum and rose-cut diamond mounts, length approximately 130 mm, signed Cartier, numbered 3516 and 3517…

A gilt silver presentation cigarette box, American, circa 1910…

Gilt Silver Presentation Cigarette Box with Celebrity Signatures

A gilt silver presentation cigarette box, American, circa 1910 the plain dome topped lid opening to reveal a cedar lined interior, inscribed to the lid and sides with the signatures of Nellie Melba, Pablo Casals, Ada Sassoli, Percy Grainger, Leopold…

A pair of famille-rose 'dragon and phoenix' bottle vases,…

Famille-rose 'Dragon and Phoenix' Vases from Melba Collection

A pair of famille-rose 'dragon and phoenix' bottle vases, Guangxu mark and of the period, 31.9 cm high (2). Provenance: The Collection of Dame Nellie Melba, Sotheby's Australia, Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE, Melbourne, 31 March to…

A 9ct gold pill box, Sampson Mordan & Co., London 1907 the lid…

Gold Pill Box with His Master's Voice Trademark Inscription

A 9ct gold pill box, Sampson Mordan & Co., London 1907 the lid embossed with the trademark symbol of 'His Master's Voice' inscribed to the interior With the Compliments of the Gramophone Co Ltd, 31 grams, 11m high, 46 mm wide, 35 mm deep. Property from…

A Belle Epoque diamond and seedpearl hair pin, Cartier, circa…

Cartier Belle Epoque Diamond & Seedpearl Hair Pin Set

A Belle Epoque diamond and seedpearl hair pin, Cartier, circa 1905 designed as an openwork heartshaped arch of seedpearls bordered by European-cut diamond lines in a millegrain setting, length approximately 127 mm long, with a Cartier fitted case;…

An agate, diamond, enamel and jasperware panel vesta case,…

Boucheron Vesta Case with Agate, Diamond, and Jasperware Panel

An agate, diamond, enamel and jasperware panel vesta case, Boucheron, early 20th century the transluscent carved agate case of rounded rectangular outline, the hinged cover with blue and white strapwork banding to a millegrain-set rose-cut diamond…

An agate, diamond, enamel and jasperware panel cigarette case,…

Boucheron Cigarette Case with Agate, Diamond, and Jasperware Panel

An agate, diamond, enamel and jasperware panel cigarette case, Boucheron, early 20th century the transluscent carved agate case of rounded rectangular outline, the hinged cover with blue and white enamel scroll banding to a millegrain-set rose-cut diamond…

A lady's French silver plated dressing table mirror, mark of…

French Silver Plated Dressing Table Mirror by Boin Tabouret

A lady's French silver plated dressing table mirror, mark of Boin Tabouret, Paris, circa 1895 The bevelled triform mirror having a reeded frame decorated with bullrushes, iris and scrolling foliage with an ovoid cartouche to the top inscribed 'Melba',…

A set of six Edwardian sterling silver loaded candlesticks,…

Edwardian Sterling Silver Candlesticks with Candelabra

A set of six Edwardian sterling silver loaded candlesticks, James Parkes, London 1904/ 1905 comprising four single loaded candlesticks and two further sticks with detachable two arm candelabra, the plain tapering sticks with reeded decoration throughout,…

A Dutch silver Nef-form bottle holder, circa 1880, bearing…

Dutch Silver Nef-Form Bottle Holder with London Import Marks

A Dutch silver Nef-form bottle holder, circa 1880, bearing sterling silver import marks for London 1926 (2). A Dutch silver Nef-form bottle holder, circa 1880, bearing sterling silver import marks for London 1926 modeled as a two masted ship at full sail,…

An 18ct gold and platinum mesh evening bag, Cartier, early 20th…

Cartier 18ct Gold and Platinum Mesh Evening Bag

An 18ct gold and platinum mesh evening bag, Cartier, early 20th century The square shaped bag composed of finely woven mesh with a three tone wavy design to a scroll engraved frame and cabochon saphire clasp, completed by an elongated oval link chain…

A pair of caned beech bergeres, circa 1905 (2). A pair of caned…

Melba's 1905 Caned Beech Bergeres (Pair)

A pair of caned beech bergeres, circa 1905 (2). A pair of caned beech bergeres, circa 1905 having circular caned backs centred by a turned roundel, forward scrolling arms, cushion seat, supported on tapering square form legs terminating in spade feet to…

A Chinese celadon jade censer and cover, 19th/20th century (2).…

Chinese Celadon Jade Censer with Animal Mask Handles and Cover

A Chinese celadon jade censer and cover, 19th/20th century (2). A Chinese celadon jade censer and cover, 19th/20th century of oval quatrelobed form, set with four animal mask and loose ring handles below the broad everted lipped rim, the domed cover…

A pair of Meissen porcelain parrots, circa 1870 (2). A pair of…

Meissen Porcelain Parrots from Melba Collection

A pair of Meissen porcelain parrots, circa 1870 (2). A pair of Meissen porcelain parrots, circa 1870 naturalistically modelled, with brightly coloured plumage, each perched on a tree stump on a rocky outcrop, both having crossed swords mark in under glaze…

A fine pair of Victorian sterling silver Rhyton stirrup cups,…

Victorian Sterling Silver Winged Griffin Stirrup Cups

A fine pair of Victorian sterling silver Rhyton stirrup cups, William Leuchars, London, 1886 (2). A fine pair of Victorian sterling silver Rhyton stirrup cups, William Leuchars, London, 1886 each formed as winged griffin with green cabochon gem set eyes,…

A pair of Chelsea gold anchor porcelain sweetmeat figures,…

Chelsea Porcelain Sweetmeat Figures, 1760

A pair of Chelsea gold anchor porcelain sweetmeat figures, circa 1760 (2). A pair of Chelsea gold anchor porcelain sweetmeat figures, circa 1760 finely modelled as a lady and a gentleman each standing next to an open wicker basket, the gentleman wearing a…

A pair of giltmetal mounted Samson porcelain table lamps, late…

Gilt-mounted Samson porcelain table lamps, late 19th century

A pair of giltmetal mounted Samson porcelain table lamps, late 19th century, each of baluster outline decorated in the famille rose palette, with lappeted bands to the shoulders, on leaf cast reeded square base, 78 cm high (excluding shades), height 78 cm…

A boxed guilloche enamel silver gilt writing set, Cartier,…

Cartier Enamel Writing Set from Melba Collection

A boxed guilloche enamel silver gilt writing set, Cartier, circa 1920 comprising a pen rest, a nib holder, a double ended eraser, a pencil and a pen knife, the pen rest of tapering oblong form, with white enamel jeweling to the edge, the blue guilloche…

A Copeland dessert set for eight, Spode Copeland's China, circa…

Copeland Spode Dessert Set with Melba's Initials (8)

A Copeland dessert set for eight, Spode Copeland's China, circa 1900 (8). A Copeland dessert set for eight, Spode Copeland's China, circa 1900 the dessert plates having a crenellated gilded rim, jewelled border, green ground, the central white reserve…

A Copeland part dinner set for eight, Spode Copeland's China,…

Copeland Dinner Set with Gilt Rim and Initials 'NM'

A Copeland part dinner set for eight, Spode Copeland's China, circa 1900 (36). A Copeland part dinner set for eight, Spode Copeland's China, circa 1900 comprising eight dinner plates, eight soup bowls, eight entrée plates, eight bread and butter…

An 18ct two colour gold and diamond mesh evening bag, early…

18ct Gold Diamond Mesh Evening Bag from Melba Collection

An 18ct two colour gold and diamond mesh evening bag, early 20th century the bag composed of finely woven mesh in an alternating white and yellow gold weave pattern to an arched frame lined with European-cut diamonds, completed by a mesh link chain handle…

A Chinese gilt-decorated powder-blue ground brushpot Qing…

Gilt-Decorated Blue Brushpot from Qing Dynasty

A Chinese gilt-decorated powder-blue ground brushpot Qing dynasty, 18th century of cylindrical form, the straight sides decorated in gilding over the bright blue ground, the rim and interior glazed in white 18 cm diameter. Property from the Collection of…

Charles+Douglas+Richardson (1853-1932), On the Beach 1914…

"On the Beach" by C. D. Richardson

Charles+Douglas+Richardson (1853-1932), On the Beach 1914 terracotta signed, dated and inscribed 'C Douglas Richardson 1914 / On the Beach / C Douglas Richardson / 1914 ' on base 29.5 cm high. Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE

A William IV sterling silver lidded jug, Charles Reily and…

Melba's Sterling Silver Jug with Ivory Handle and Serpent Detail

A William IV sterling silver lidded jug, Charles Reily and George Storer, London 1836 the lid surmounted by an ivory finial, the bi-lobed ivory loop handle emanating from two serpents tails, terminating in an acanthus collared snake head mounted to the…

A sterling silver gallery tray, Goldsmiths and Silversmiths…

Nellie Melba's Silver Gallery Tray

A sterling silver gallery tray, Goldsmiths and Silversmiths Limited, London 1902 having a gadrooned rim to the pierced gallery, inscribed 'NM' to centre, stamped to the underside 'GOLDSMITHS COMPANY 112 REGENT STREET' 2640 gms, 7 cm high, 56 cm wide, 38…

An 18ct gold presentation wreath brooch, Tiffany & Co formed as…

18ct Gold Tiffany & Co Wreath Brooch from Melba Collection

An 18ct gold presentation wreath brooch, Tiffany & Co formed as trailing laurel leaves engraved with the names of American cities, tied with a ribbon bow to the front, diameter approximately 31 mm. Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE

An American sterling silver fruit serving dish, Tiffany & Co.,…

Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Peacock Fan Fruit Dish

An American sterling silver fruit serving dish, Tiffany & Co., New York, 1902-1907 shaped as a peacock fan, with applied cast border, alternating pierced trellises to the 'feather tops', with scrolling Fleur de Lis form pierced handle, resting on four…

A sterling silver tea caddy, Goldsmiths and Silversmiths…

Melba's Sterling Silver Tea Caddy, London 1904

A sterling silver tea caddy, Goldsmiths and Silversmiths Company Limited, London, 1904 of knife box form, the lid surmounted by a cloverleaf loop handle, opening to reveal a gilt interior, engraved 'NM' 360 gms, 10 cm high, 9 cm wide, 9 cm deep. Property…

A lady's gold, enamel and diamond-set openface keyless lever…

Enamel and Diamond Cartier Watch from Melba Collection

A lady's gold, enamel and diamond-set openface keyless lever watch Cartier, no.1307, circa 1920 gilt-finished jewelled lever movement, silvered matt dial, Arabic numerals, blued steel moon-style hands, white enamel wave pattern bezel, in circular ultra…

A diamond and sapphire brooch, 1950s of bouquet design, the…

Diamond and Sapphire Brooch of Bouquet Design

A diamond and sapphire brooch, 1950s of bouquet design, the curved stems set with baguette diamonds, the flowerheads with oval and circular cut sapphire petals and brilliant-cut diamond stamen, gathered by a brilliant cut diamond ribbon, the sapphires and…

A travelling suite of silver gilt 'Hourglass' pattern cutlery…

Travelling Silver Gilt Cutlery Set in Oak Canteen

A travelling suite of silver gilt 'Hourglass' pattern cutlery in canteen, of mixed predominantly late Georgian date (96). A travelling suite of silver gilt 'Hourglass' pattern cutlery in canteen, of mixed predominantly late Georgian date comprising…

An onyx, diamond and pearl pansy brooch, early 20th century the…

Onyx, Diamond & Pearl Pansy Brooch from Melba Collection

An onyx, diamond and pearl pansy brooch, early 20th century the brooch of carved onyx petals accented by seedpearls, with old European-cut diamond stamen, diameter approximately 31 mm. Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE

A sterling silver waiter, Boardman Glossop and Company,…

Sterling Silver Waiter with Melba Inscription, 1913

A sterling silver waiter, Boardman Glossop and Company, Sheffield, 1913 the square form salver having canted corners, reeded rim, inscribed 'Music Week Nov. 5-13 1921' ' Dame Nelie Melba DBE in appreciation from the committee' 140gms, 15.5 cm diameter.…

A pair of late Victorian Adam style giltwood torcheres, each…

Victorian giltwood torcheres from Dame Nellie Melba's collection

A pair of late Victorian Adam style giltwood torcheres, each with a circular top on three slender ram's head supports with leaf and hairy hoof feet on a triform base, height 113 cm. Provenance: Dame Nellie Melba. Smith & Singer (formerly Sotheby's…

A George V silver gilt bowl, maker E.S, Birmingham, 1910 having…

Melba's Silver Gilt Bowl, 1910

A George V silver gilt bowl, maker E.S, Birmingham, 1910 having a cast and applied rim surmounting the finely pierced hemispherical body, inscribed to the interior 'Won by Madame Melba Belgium Roses Day April 8th 1915', supported on bifurcated lion paw…

An Edwardian sterling silver cigarette case, William Comyns,…

Melba's Inscribed Sterling Silver Cigarette Case

An Edwardian sterling silver cigarette case, William Comyns, London, 1901 the plain rectangular case inscribed to the lid, 'To Papa from Melba 1902' opening to reveal a gilded interior with cedar lining, the underside lined with maroon morocco leather 7…

An enamel, diamond and seedpearl stick pin, circa 1900 designed…

Enamel Diamond Stick Pin from Melba Collection

An enamel, diamond and seedpearl stick pin, circa 1900 designed as a green enamel foliate stem with seedpearl and white enamel accents, the flowerheads set with old European cut diamonds, length approximately 111 mm, fitted case by Parkes, London.…

A Louis XV style tulipwood table coiffeuse, circa 1890 the…

Louis XV Tulipwood Coiffeuse Table with Japanese Lacquer Panel

A Louis XV style tulipwood table coiffeuse, circa 1890 the central hinged top raising on a ratchet mechanism to create a reading slope, flanked by lids opening to reveal shaped wells, with a frieze drawer, the upper section lifting off to form a separate…

A Chinese export dinner service in the 'famille-verte' palette,…

Chinese Export Dinner Service in Famille-Verte Palette, 1910

A Chinese export dinner service in the 'famille-verte' palette, circa 1910 (44). A Chinese export dinner service in the 'famille-verte' palette, circa 1910 decorated with roosters and birds in a garden landscape, comprising eight dinner plates, eight soup…

A silver key, Wendt's, 1927 the silver key bearing the…

Melba's Silver Key, Wendt's 1927

A silver key, Wendt's, 1927 the silver key bearing the inscription Presented to Dame Nellie Melba, 9.11.27, On her opening the completion of the Queen's Home, length approximately 73 mm, signed Wendts, case by Wendts Jewellers. Property from the…

A Sterling silver four piece tea and coffee service, Goldsmiths…

Sterling Silver Tea & Coffee Service by Goldsmiths & Silversmiths

A Sterling silver four piece tea and coffee service, Goldsmiths and Silversmiths Company Limited, London, 1904 (4). A Sterling silver four piece tea and coffee service, Goldsmiths and Silversmiths Company Limited, London, 1904 comprising a tea pot, coffee…

A 18ct gold bracelet and various pendant attachments bearing…

Melba's Gold Bracelet and Pendant Attachments

A 18ct gold bracelet and various pendant attachments bearing engraved inscriptions to Dame Nellie Melba, circa 1900 the curblink chain suspending: a gold slide action seal topped pencil engraved Nell June 29. 1893 ; a heart pendant engraved Cheer Up,…

A gold, diamond and seedpearl brooch The jewelled gold novelty…

Melba's Harp Brooch: Gold, Diamond, and Seed Pearl Design

A gold, diamond and seedpearl brooch The jewelled gold novelty brooch designed as a harp, length approximately 59 mm. Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE

A Victorian sterling silver fruit set for ten people, George…

Victorian Sterling Silver Fruit Set for 10, Nellie Melba Collection

A Victorian sterling silver fruit set for ten people, George Lambert for Lambert & Co, London, 1898 (20). A Victorian sterling silver fruit set for ten people, George Lambert for Lambert & Co, London, 1898 comprising ten forks and ten knives with sterling…

A large silver plated butler's tray, Boin Taburet, Paris, circa…

Large Silver Plated Butler's Tray by Boin Taburet, Paris

A large silver plated butler's tray, Boin Taburet, Paris, circa 1894 the rectangular tray having mask centred loop handles to either end, reeded edge, decorated with scrolling arabesques, inscribed 'NM' to centre, marked to verso 'BOIN TABURET A PARIS' 7…

A silverplated tea pot, the design attributed to Dr Christopher…

Dresser-designed Silverplated Tea Pot from Dame Melba's Collection

A silverplated tea pot, the design attributed to Dr Christopher Dresser, retailed by Hardy Brothers, of hemispherical outline with straight wooden handle, impressed mark Hardy Bros. Sydney & Brisbane 12225 made in England, diameter 17.5 cm. Provenance:…

A sterling silver rose bowl, Sheffield 1907, Walker and Hall of…

Sterling Silver Rose Bowl, Melbourne Hunt Club Trophy (9 words)

A sterling silver rose bowl, Sheffield 1907, Walker and Hall of semi-hemispherical form, mounted with two scrolling handles, supported on a spreading circular foot, inscribed: 'Melbourne Hunt Club / Dandenong Point to Point / Steeplechase / 13-9-09 / 1st…

A gold musical fob seal, Swiss, mid 19th century the barillet…

Swiss Gold Musical Fob Seal from Dame Nellie Melba Collection

A gold musical fob seal, Swiss, mid 19th century the barillet movement with comb stack of eight teeth playing a single air, main oval gold case, the base engraved Nellie, start/stop control at the side, fluted edge, the arched superstructure with wire…

A Lalique 'Raisins' decanter and stopper, circa 1930 the…

Lalique 'Raisins' Decanter with Grapes and Vines Decoration

A Lalique 'Raisins' decanter and stopper, circa 1930 the elliptical decanter having moulded decoration depicting grapes amongst vines, clear glass with grey wash, moulded 'R.Lalique' to base 27 cm high inclusive of stopper. Other Notes: Reference :…

A silver plated watering can, Atkin Brothers, Sheffield, circa…

Silver Plated Watering Can by Atkin Brothers, Sheffield (1910)

A silver plated watering can, Atkin Brothers, Sheffield, circa 1910 of tapering cylindrical form, surmounted with a loop handle, with a further loop handle to the side and tapering spout, inscribed 'NM' to the side 23 cm high, 30 cm wide, 13 cm deep.…

A Victorian tortoiseshell letter opener, bearing the applied…

Melba's Victorian Tortoiseshell Letter Opener

A Victorian tortoiseshell letter opener, bearing the applied silver inscription 'Melba' supplied by Leuchars & Son. Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE

A 9ct gold pencil, Sampson Mordan & Co., London 1920 (2). A 9ct…

Gold Pencils from Dame Nellie Melba's Collection

A 9ct gold pencil, Sampson Mordan & Co., London 1920 (2). A 9ct gold pencil, Sampson Mordan & Co., London 1920 the plain pencil with removable lid, loop to opposite end, inscribed to the exterior Dame Nellie Melba 1925, 7 grams, 75 mm long (2). Property…

An 18ct gold tipped cane baton, Thomas Brigg & Sons of London,…

18ct Gold Tipped Cane Baton from Dame Nellie Melba

An 18ct gold tipped cane baton, Thomas Brigg & Sons of London, London,1904 the rattan cane baton mounted with a plain gold tip, marked '18ct', inscribed 'NM' 74 cm long. Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE

A pair of silver gilt mounted crystal oil and vinegar cruet…

Silver Gilt Crystal Oil & Vinegar Cruet Bottles, 1830

A pair of silver gilt mounted crystal oil and vinegar cruet bottles, marks worn, circa 1830 the hand cut crystal bottles each having a cast silver gilt mount from which emanates a scrolling acanthus surmounted handle, the collar terminating in a hound…

A pair of ormolu mounted turquoise glazed twin carp vases, late…

Turquoise Glazed Twin Carp Vases by Edme Samson, Paris

A pair of ormolu mounted turquoise glazed twin carp vases, late 19th century, Edme Samson of Paris, after the Chinese (2). A pair of ormolu mounted turquoise glazed twin carp vases, late 19th century, Edme Samson of Paris, after the Chinese each in the…

Four Meissen tea cups and saucers, 19th century (8). Four…

Meissen Tea Set with Deutsche Blumen for Melba Collection

Four Meissen tea cups and saucers, 19th century (8). Four Meissen tea cups and saucers, 19th century the cups and saucers with gilt rims, moulded Chinese trellis borders, hand painted with polychrome 'Deutsche Blumen' on a white ground, all marked with…

An American sterling silver beaker of tapering form, having an…

Melba's American Sterling Silver Beaker

An American sterling silver beaker of tapering form, having an outward rolled lip, gilt interior, inscribed 'NM' to the exterior, marked '926 STERLING' to base 60grams, 7.5 cm high, 5.4 cm in diameter. Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE

A Victorian silver mounted tortoiseshell dish, James Roberts,…

Melba's Victorian Silver Tortoiseshell Dish

A Victorian silver mounted tortoiseshell dish, James Roberts, London, 1892 the heart shaped dish bearing to the interior, the applied silver inscription Melba, 20 mm high, 150 mm wide, 130 mm deep. Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE

A sewing box, Cartier, circa 1920 the gold tooled green morocco…

Cartier Sewing Box with Ivory Accoutrements

A sewing box, Cartier, circa 1920 the gold tooled green morocco leather case opening to reveal numerous ivory sewing accoutrements, together with an associated silver thimble with agate top, marked Cartier, in a Cartier case, 60 mm high, 300 mm wide, 215…

A leather mounted box rectangular, crocodile skin, the hinged…

Melba's Crocodile Skin Box

A leather mounted box rectangular, crocodile skin, the hinged lid with applied silver inscription MELBA, 150 mm x 95 mm x 35 mm. Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE

An 18ct gold brooch designed as a wishbone, length…

Nellie Melba's 18ct Gold Wishbone Brooch

An 18ct gold brooch designed as a wishbone, length approximately 85 mm. Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE

An 18ct gold letter knife, Tiffany & Co, circa 1920 the…

Tiffany & Co. 18ct Gold Letter Knife from Melba Collection

An 18ct gold letter knife, Tiffany & Co, circa 1920 the truncated top section inscribed M and marked Tiffany & Co., the lower section tapering to a sharp point, 60 grams, 220 mm long. Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE

A Chinese archaistic celadon jade pouring vessel Yi Qing…

Celadon Jade Pouring Vessel with Dragon Handle and Screen

A Chinese archaistic celadon jade pouring vessel Yi Qing dynasty, 19th century (2). A Chinese archaistic celadon jade pouring vessel Yi Qing dynasty, 19th century of shallow form set with a dragon loop handle opposite the broad spout, the sides carved…

A Chinese crackle-glazed vase Qing dynasty, 19th century of…

Crackle-glazed Chinese vase with metal mounts

A Chinese crackle-glazed vase Qing dynasty, 19th century of ovoid form, the mouth and base with metal mounts 12.5 cm. Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE

A suite of Bohemian crystal, circa 1910 (15). A suite of…

Bohemian Crystal Suite, Circa 1910, Monogrammed 'NM'

A suite of Bohemian crystal, circa 1910 (15). A suite of Bohemian crystal, circa 1910 comprising two wine glasses, four coupes, seven liqueur glasses and two sherry glasses, all monogrammed in gilt 'NM', all supported on spreading circular bases (15) the…

A silver plated tea and coffee service, S & Co, circa 1910 (4).…

S & Co Silver Plated Tea and Coffee Service

A silver plated tea and coffee service, S & Co, circa 1910 (4). A silver plated tea and coffee service, S & Co, circa 1910 comprising a tea pot, coffee pot, sugar bowl and cream jug, with domed and gadrooned lids surmounted with urn finials, the bodies of…

An early Victorian mahogany folio stand, circa 1850 the…

Victorian Mahogany Folio Stand from Melba Collection

An early Victorian mahogany folio stand, circa 1850 the ratcheted railed sides supported on twin pedestal supports terminating in splayed legs joined by a turned stretcher on bun feet 117 cm high, 76 cm wide, 69 cm deep. Property from the Collection of…

A rare shagreen and ivory cigar box, by Calloys of Mayfair,…

Shagreen and Ivory Cigar Box by Calloys of Mayfair

A rare shagreen and ivory cigar box, by Calloys of Mayfair, circa 1910 of rectangular form, the exterior fully veneered in shagreen with ivory stringing, opening to reveal a maple interior with adjustable dividers, the base inset with green morocco…

An Anglo-Indian ivory walking stick, late 19th century the six…

Anglo-Indian Ivory Walking Stick from Melba Collection

An Anglo-Indian ivory walking stick, late 19th century the six section stick of naturalistic branch form 87 cm long. Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE

A Chinese Dehua vase, Qing dynasty of baluster form with narrow…

Dehua Qing Dynasty Vase from Dame Nellie Melba Collection

A Chinese Dehua vase, Qing dynasty of baluster form with narrow lipped mouth, the sides carved with flowering sprays and set with two animal mask handles, all beneath the ivory tinted glaze, an inscription incised on one side 29 cm high. Property from the…

A Chinese 'famille-rose' figure of Pudai seated holding a…

Famille-Rose Pudai Figure from Melba Collection

A Chinese 'famille-rose' figure of Pudai seated holding a rosary in one hand, wearing a floral decorated turquoise ground robe, his face with jovial expression 26 cm high. Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE

A pair of French restauration ormolu candlesticks, second…

French Restauration Cupid Candlesticks from Melba Collection

A pair of French restauration ormolu candlesticks, second quarter 19th century each modelled as a cupid surmounted by a candle socket standing on a sphere supported on a lotus collar, in turn supported on a socle terminating in a square section foot 46 cm…

A George III Sheraton style cross-banded mahogany serving table,…

Sheraton Mahogany Serving Table, 1790

A George III Sheraton style cross-banded mahogany serving table, English, circa 1790, 91 cm high, 152 cm wide, 67 cm deep. Provenance: Sotheby's Australia, Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE, Melbourne, April 1 2015, lot 403

A small silver, enamel and gem set figure of a bird, early 20th…

Enamel and Gem Set Bird Figure on Crystal Base

A small silver, enamel and gem set figure of a bird, early 20th century with naturalistic plumage set with sapphires and seedpearls, its head decorated with blue and enamel and ruby set eye, perched on a tree stump with emerald set foliage, on a stepped…

Two papier mache trays, 19th century (2). Two papier mache…

19th Century Papier Mache Trays (2)

Two papier mache trays, 19th century (2). Two papier mache trays, 19th century each of lobed rectangular form, the green tray and black tray both painted and gilded with naturalistic flowers (2) The green tray 6 cm high, 79 cm wide, 60 cm deep The black…

A set of four Paris porcelain dessert plates, circa 1830 (4). A…

Paris Porcelain Dessert Plates, 1830

A set of four Paris porcelain dessert plates, circa 1830 (4). A set of four Paris porcelain dessert plates, circa 1830 by Feuillet of Paris on Sevres blanks, having gilded rims, painted in colours with trailing vines to the borders, fruits to the centre…

A Meissen porcelain tray, 19th century the deep quadrilobate…

Melba Collection: Meissen Porcelain Tray with Floral Decoration

A Meissen porcelain tray, 19th century the deep quadrilobate tray modelled with a basket weave border and naturalistic twig handles to either end, having a gilded rim, decorated with polychromatic sprays of 'Deutsche Blumen', crossed swords in underglaze…

A Chinese archaistic jade censer Qing dynasty, 19th century of…

Chinese Jade Censer with Taotie Frieze and Animal Masks

A Chinese archaistic jade censer Qing dynasty, 19th century of bombe form, set below the lipped rim with double animal mask and loop handles, the sides carved with a frieze of taotie, the pale celadon stone with areas of dark tone 12 cm wide. Property…

A sterling silver coin mounted cigarette box, William Haseler,…

Melba's Sterling Silver Coin Cigarette Box

A sterling silver coin mounted cigarette box, William Haseler, Birmingham 1904 the lidded box of rectangular form, the lid inset to the corners with a William III silver four pence, Queen Anne silver four pence, George II silver four pence, George III…

A sterling silver cigar lighter, maker's mark worn, Birmingham…

Sterling Silver Cigar Lighter with Inscription, 1912

A sterling silver cigar lighter, maker's mark worn, Birmingham 1912 of lamp form, with angular loop handle, removable lighter to top, supported on a tapering circular foot, inscribed 'NM May 19th 1916' 160 gms, 13 cm high. Property from the Collection of…

A 9ct gold rectangular engine turned cigarette case, Asprey &…

Asprey & Co. Gold Cigarette Case with Diamond Initials

A 9ct gold rectangular engine turned cigarette case, Asprey & Co, London, 1933 with patent slide release, with diamond set initials EA, 137 gms, 8 mm high, 115 mm long, 83 mm wide. Provenance: Evie Armstrong. Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie…

A gold, garnet and seedpearl hatpin, circa 1905 The elongated…

Garnet and Seedpearl Hatpin from Melba Collection

A gold, garnet and seedpearl hatpin, circa 1905 The elongated teardop motif decorated with rows of circular cut garnets and seedpearls, length approximately 175 mm, French assay marks. Property from the Collection of Dame Nellie Melba GBE

A gold and enamel pair-case verge pocketwatch with enamel…

Enamel portrait verge pocketwatch by Isaac Soret & Fils

A gold and enamel pair-case verge pocketwatch with enamel portrait miniature, Isaac Soret & Fils, no.22160, mid 18th century gilt verge movement with fusée and pierced bridge cock, white enamel dial with Roman numerals, outer minute ring with…

A Victorian papier mache small cabinet, circa 1850 ebonized,…

Victorian Papier Mache Cabinet with Inlaid Mother of Pearl

A Victorian papier mache small cabinet, circa 1850 ebonized, inlaid with mother of pearl, decorated with gilt and sprays of polychrome flowers, having a domed rectangular top opening to reveal a silk lined segmented compartment for jewellery, with two…

A Regency revival wine cooler of sarcophagus form, circa 1900…

Regency Revival Wine Cooler with Lion Paw Feet

A Regency revival wine cooler of sarcophagus form, circa 1900 and later cedar and other woods, the domed rectangular hinged lid surmounted by a rectangular panel, above a tapering paneled body with applied rope twist carving to the corners, supported on…

A Victorian mahogany bracket clock, circa 1840 the seven inch…

Melba's Victorian Mahogany Bracket Clock

A Victorian mahogany bracket clock, circa 1840 the seven inch white enamelled dial with Roman numerals, the eight day movement striking on a bell, the line inlaid dome top pagoda case surmounted by a brass pineapple finial 50 cm high, 24.5 cm wide, 17 cm…

A pair of Meissen porcelain serving plates, 19th century (2). A…

Meissen Porcelain Serving Plates, 19th Century (Pair)

A pair of Meissen porcelain serving plates, 19th century (2). A pair of Meissen porcelain serving plates, 19th century having gilded rims, pierced borders, decorated with polychrome 'Deutsche Blumen' on a white ground. Crossed swords mark in under glaze…

An American sterling silver cruet set, boxed, Mauser…

American Sterling Silver Cruet Set with Box

An American sterling silver cruet set, boxed, Mauser Manufacturing Company, New York (25). An American sterling silver cruet set, boxed, Mauser Manufacturing Company, New York comprising twelve ovoid salts with silver lattice sides framing an oblong…

A George III sterling silver pepperette, maker's mark worn,…

Georgian Sterling Silver Pepperette from Melba Collection

A George III sterling silver pepperette, maker's mark worn, London, 1790 having a floral decorated baluster body, hand pierced bell form lid with acorn finial, supported on a bright cut spreading circular foot 100 gms, 16 cm high. Property from the…

A lady's ivory and horn handled parasol, Kendall & Sons, circa…

Melba's Antique Bird-Handle Parasol

A lady's ivory and horn handled parasol, Kendall & Sons, circa 1905 having an ivory, horn and burl wood handle depicting a bird of prey, the parasol shade of brown silk, marked 'Kendall Paris' to the interior, with canvas sleeve 76 cm long. Property from…

A George III mahogany tea caddy, early 19th century (2). A…

George III Mahogany Tea Caddy with Lion Paw Feet

A George III mahogany tea caddy, early 19th century (2). A George III mahogany tea caddy, early 19th century of sarcophagus form, the domed lid with boxwood stringing and parquetry banding opening to reveal compartments for caddies and a crystal mixing…