Learn about antiques and collectables...
Click on a category below to show all the entries for that category.
Learn about and understand the items, manufacturers, designers and periods as well as the specialist terms used in describing antiques and collectables. Either click one of the letters below to list the items beginning with that letter, or click on a category on the left side of the screen to list the items under that category.
T. H. Brown
T.H. Brown was an Australian furniture manufacturer known for their mid-century modern furniture designs. Founded in 1911, the company began as a producer of leather goods and expanded into furniture in the 1930s.
T.H. Brown's mid-century furniture designs are characterized by their sleek lines, use of high-quality materials, and attention to detail. Their furniture was often made of solid timber, including teak, blackwood, and oak, and featured simple, elegant designs that emphasized functionality and form.
Some of T.H. Brown's most iconic pieces include
Some of their most notable designs include:
• Saddle dining chairs: These chairs feature a distinctive saddle-shaped seat and were designed in the 1950s. They are still produced today and are highly sought after by collectors.
• Espana range: This range of armchairs and sofas was designed in the 1960s and features sleek lines and a minimalist design. The furniture is made from solid timber and is known for its high quality and durability.
• T2 coffee table: The T2 coffee table is a mid-century classic with a minimalist design and clean lines. It features a round top and tapered legs and was designed to be both stylish and functional.
• Sideboards and cabinets: T.H. Brown also produced a range of sideboards and cabinets in the mid-century modern style. These pieces are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Overall, T.H. Brown was known for producing furniture designs that were both stylish and functional, with an emphasis on quality materials.
The third generation of the Brown family is now running the company. T.H. Brown, was taken over by Workspace Commercial Furniture in
1987, and was joined by the company founder’s grandson Simon
Brown as CEO in 2018 to reintroduce the family name. The company has re-launched the famous TH Brown brand, and re-issued some of the signature pieces designed by his father over 50 years ago.
Tabouret
A French word for a low upholstered seat or stool, introduced in France in the second half of the 17th century, and in England in the 18th century
Tabua
A tabua is a sacred object in Fijian society. For the last 150 years they have been made from a whale’s tooth, but prior to this were made from highly polished timber.
Ceremonial tabua have holes drilled through the tip and the butt of the tooth, through which a braided cord, made from sennit (plaited strands of dry fibre or grass) is attached.
To make tabua, the whale teeth are polished and sometimes rubbed with coconut oil and turmeric to darken them. In some cases the teeth are smoked in a small tent-like structure covered in bark cloth to turn them a rich tobacco colour.
The giving of a tabua is seen as gesture of goodwill, respect or loyalty from the persons presenting it, and a ceremonial ritual is always carried out during the presentation. It is often presented at ceremonies associated with births, deaths, marriages, the naming of a child, and also the condoning of the violation of traditional Fijian law.
When the whalers first visited Fiji, they brought ashore whale’s teeth to use for trading purposes. They were of a similar shape and size to the wooden tabua that were in use at the time, and so the whale's tooth was adopted as the material for tabua.
It is against the laws of Fiji to export a tabua without the written permission of the Ministry of Fijian Affairs.
Tag Heuer
Tag Heuer is a Swiss luxury watch brand that has a rich history dating back to 1860. The company was founded by Edouard Heuer, who was just 20 years old at the time. He began making watches in a small workshop in the Swiss Jura mountains, and quickly gained a reputation for creating high-quality timepieces.
In 1887, Heuer patented his first chronograph, which allowed for the accurate measurement of time intervals. This innovation made Heuer a popular choice among athletes, and the company began producing sports watches that were used in events such as the Olympics.
Throughout the 20th century, Tag Heuer continued to innovate and expand its product line. In the 1960s, the company introduced the Carrera, a classic racing watch that remains one of its most popular models to this day. In the 1970s, Tag Heuer was one of the first watchmakers to produce quartz watches, which revolutionized the industry with their accuracy and reliability.
In the 1980s, Tag Heuer became the official timekeeper of Formula 1 racing, cementing its reputation as a brand for sports enthusiasts. The company continued to innovate with new materials and technologies, and in the 1990s introduced the first chronograph with a precision of 1/100th of a second.
TAG Heuer was formed in 1985 when TAG (Techniques d'Avant Garde), manufacturers of high-tech items such as ceramic turbochargers for Formula One cars, and British businessman Ron Dennis, acquired Heuer.
In 1999 TAG Heuer accepted a bid from luxury goods manufacturer LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton S.A. contingent upon a transfer of 50.1 percent of stock. LVMH owns brands including Louis Vuitton, Christian Dioor, Fendi, Givenchy Bulgari and others.
Today, Tag Heuer is known for its high-quality watches that combine Swiss precision with stylish design. The company produces a wide range of models, from classic dress watches to sporty chronographs, and continues to push the boundaries of innovation in the watchmaking industry.
Takeichi Kawai
Takeichi Kawai was a Japanese potter who was born in Kyoto, Japan in 1937. He is best known for his innovative use of traditional Japanese pottery techniques to create modern and stylish pieces. He began his pottery career as an apprentice to his father, Takeichi Kawai Senior, who was a renowned potter. Kawai quickly mastered the traditional pottery techniques of his father, but he was also eager to experiment with new ideas. He was one of the first Japanese potters to use electric kilns and to experiment with new glazes and firing techniques.
Kawai's pottery is known for its simple, elegant forms and its use of natural colors and materials. He often used Japanese motifs, such as cherry blossoms and bamboo, in his designs. His pottery was also characterized by its high quality and craftsmanship.
Kawai's pottery was exhibited in Japan and around the world, and he won numerous awards for his work. He was also a highly respected teacher and mentor, and he trained many of the leading Japanese potters of the 21st century.
Kawai died in 2017 at the age of 80. He is considered to be one of the most important and influential Japanese potters of the 20th and 21st centuries.
Tallboy
In Britain and Australia, a tallboy refers to the same item of furniture as a chest-on-chest.
In America, however, it often refers to a chest of drawers, usually with a distinguishing hooded top, placed on top of a stand similar to a lowboy. The American variant is often known as a 'high boy'.
Tambour
A form of folding shutter formed by narrow widths of wood with the flat side glued to canvas, and used on some writing desks, sideboards and other cabinets.
The tambours may run vertically and enclose some stationery compartments, such as in a lady's writing desk. Or the tambours may run horizontally, such as in a Cutler desk, and form an enclosure for the whole of the writing surface.
Tankard
A tankard is a drinking vessel for beer, ale, and cider, similar in shape to a large mug, and usually with a hinged lid. Silver tankards were in use in Britain and other parts of Europe from at least the sixteenth century, pewter tankards probably from the thirteenth. In the 19th century a number of ornately carved ivory tankards were produced, but these were designed to demonstrate the skill of the carver, rather than for day to day use. The shapes of tankards vary, sometimes globular, sometimes a tapering concave. For those with lids, the lid usually includes a thumbpiece that the drinker can hold down to keep the lid open. Variation in the design of the thumbpiece include wedge, ball and wedge, ball, hammer head, bud and wedge, double volute (scroll), chair-back, ball and bar, shell, double acorn, corkscrew, and ram's horn.
Tantalus
A tantalus is a container for holding two or three glass or crystal bottles of alchoholic drinks. A tantalus may take various forms, the most common being made from silver, silver plate or wood with the three bottles in a circle or two bottles in line with a central handle. A larger version has three bottles in a line with two end supports and a horizontal top and handle. To prevent unauthorised access, some tantalus have a locking mecahnism that prevents the bottles and stoppers being removed from the bottles when secured.
A box tantalus, as the name implies is an elaborate wooden box made of a fancy timber such as coramandel, with divisions for the bottles and a lockable lid. Some of these type are designed for liquers and include the liquer glasses set into fitted holders.
Tantalus (item)
A tantalus is a container for holding two or three glass or crystal bottles of alchoholic drinks. A tantalus may take various forms, the most common being made from silver, silver plate or wood with the three bottles in a circle or two bottles in line with a central handle. A larger version has three bottles in a line with two end supports and a horizontal top and handle. To prevent unauthorised access, some tantalus have a locking mecahnism that prevents the bottles and stoppers being removed from the bottles when secured.
A box tantalus, as the name implies is an elaborate wooden box made of a fancy timber such as coramandel, with divisions for the bottles and a lockable lid. Some of these type are designed for liquers and include the liquer glasses set into fitted holders.
Tapered Legs
found on both cabinet and country-made furniture from the 18th to the later 19th centuries. The leg sometimes terminates in a spade foot, though on most country furniture the taper continues for the whole length of the leg. The important thing to remember is that the taper ought only to be on the inside face of the leg, and the outer face should be straight and square. Some legs were made where both sides tapered, but in such a case the taper ought to be the same on both the inner and outer faces of the leg. Where the inside of a leg is straight, with only the outer face tapering, there is every reason to be suspicious
Tapersticks
A silver taperstick is essentially a candlestick (or later a chamberstick) on a much smaller scale. The taper sticks are small, tapered candles that were used for a variety of purposes in the past. They were most commonly used for melting sealing wax to seal letters. The wax could be dazzled with an intaglio cut with initials or a peak at the place where it was dissolved.
Tapio Wirkkala
Tapio Wirkkala (1915 – May 19) was a Finnish designer and sculptor. He is best known for his work in glass, but he also designed furniture, tableware, and other objects. Wirkkala was a major figure in the development of Finnish design, and his work is considered to be some of the most important of the 20th century.
Wirkkala was born in Hanko, Finland, in 1915. He studied sculpture at the Central School of Industrial Arts in Helsinki, graduating in 1936. After graduating, Wirkkala worked as a sculptor and designer for various companies. In 1946, he won a design competition for a new glass vase for the Iittala glassworks. The vase, called the Kantarelli, was a success, and it launched Wirkkala's career as a glass designer. He went on to design a wide variety of glass objects for Iittala, including vases, bowls, and tableware. His designs are characterized by their simple, elegant lines and their use of natural forms. Wirkkala's glassware is some of the most popular in the world, and it is often used in museums and exhibitions.
In addition to his work in glass, Wirkkala also designed furniture, tableware, and other objects. His furniture designs are characterized by their clean lines and their use of natural materials. Wirkkala's tableware designs are also simple and elegant, and they are often inspired by Finnish nature. His work has been exhibited in galleries and museums all over the world. He has won numerous awards for his work, including the Grand Prix at the Milan Triennale in 1951 and 1954. Wirkkala was a member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Arts and the American Academy of Arts and Letters.
Wirkkala died in Helsinki in 1985. He was 69 years old. His work is considered to be an important part of Finnish design, and it continues to be admired by designers and collectors around the world.
Taxidermy
Taxidermy is the art of mounting or reproducing animals for display or study and in the past the word has been associated with large gloomy Victorian houses filled with stuffed animals.
However in recent years, taxidermy has emerged from the shadows as a collecting area in its own right and in the United Kingdom there are now dealers who deal only in taxidermy. In Victorian times, taxidermists performed a valuable service, bringing wildlife into homes and allowing the inhabitants to see real birds and mammals at close quarters. They could also create trophies to provide mementoes of a good day's fishing or hunting.
The value of taxidermy specimens is enhanced by the presence of an original label detailing when and where the specimen was obtained and by a trade label of the taxidermist, the most sought after being Rowland Ward of London.
In assessing a taxidermied specimen, the potential buyer should carefully study the colours and brightness of the specimen, the eyes, the detail of the groundwork, style and condition of the case and the rarity of the species. Worm or insect eaten specimens, fading, and other damage substantially reduce the value of taxidermied items.
Taylor, Ray
Ray Taylor was born in Melbourne in 1944.
He studied at Phillip Institute of Technology, Chisholm Institute of Technology, Caulfield, and Hawthorn Teachers' College, Victoria.
He has held solo exhibitions at The Craft Centre, South Yarra, Victor Mace Fine Art Gallery, Brisbane, and Elmswood Gallery, Adelaide.
He is represented in National Gallery of Victoria, Queensland Art Gallery, Art Gallery of Western Australia and a number of regional and municipal galleries.
Tazza
A tazza is a shallow saucer-like dish, either mounted on a stem and foot, or on a foot alone, used for drinking or serving small items of food. The word is derived from the Italian for "cup", plural tazze. Tazza are usually found in silver, ceramics or glass.
Tea Caddy
In the 17th century, tea was first introduced to Britain from the East Indies by the Dutch East India Company who had a monopoly on this trade, as well as some of the spices now in common use. As a result, the leaf tea from which the drink was made was an extremely expensive commodity, and so had to be appropriately stored and safeguarded. The tea caddy was devised for this purpose.
The first tea caddies, sometimes called tea canisters, as they were only single compartment vessels, were often of silver, and bottle shaped with a removable top that could be used to measure tea into the pot.
In the 18th century, taxes were imposed on tea making it even more expensive, and to safeguard the contents a lockable box was devised. The simple forms of these boxes had a removable receptacle to store the tea. The larger examples housed two receptacles side by side. The tea containers were often lined with a silver paper like substance presumably to protect the tea from moisture. The tea receptacles were often separated by a glass bowl, usually referred to in auction catalogues as the "mixing bowl" or "blending bowl", the idea being that each of the two containers held a different variety of tea, and they were blended in the bowl in proportions suitable to the maker, before being added to the teapot. Others, however, believe the bowl was used for sugar.
The most common material used for tea caddies in the 18th century was silver, and in the 19th century was wood, but tea caddies are also commonly seen finished in pewter, ivory, tortoise-shell, mother-of-pearl, brass, copper, papier mache and silver.
Befitting their status, the finest materials and craftmanship were used in the manufacture of tea caddies, emphasised by the complicated shapes which were variations on a square, rectangle or casket.
In 1784 the tax on tea was reduced from over 100% to 12.5%, and at the same time the monpoly on supply of tea by the Dutch East india Company was beginning to wane. As tea grew cheaper, there was less concern with safeguarding the contents, and as a result the of the tea caddy slowly declined. Most tea caddies avaiolable on the market were made before the mid 19th century.
A variation on the tea caddy is the teapoy, where a larger version of the tea caddy was mounted on a stem and base to form a small table.
Teapoys
Originally a teapoy was a small rectangular table with a single pillar column attached to a tripod or circular base, the name being derived from a Hindu word "tepai" meaning three legged or three footed.
However the word now refers to a tea caddy mounted on a base as described above.
The tea caddy section of a teapoy is much larger than a stand-alone tea caddy, often holding four tea containers and several mixing bowls, (compared with a maximum two and onerespectively for a tea caddy) when the interior of the teapoy is still intact and complete. When the interior fittings have been removed the teapoy is often re-described as a sewing box.
Since the tops of a tea caddies were often domed or stepped, the tops of teapoys are often not flat, so negating their use as side tables.
Ted Dutch
Ted Dutch (1928-2008) was born in London, UK and passed away in 2008.A versatile artist, he pursued painting, printmaking, ceramics, and graphic designing. Dutch's upbringing occurred during the Great Depression and World War II in London. He completed his formal education from the St Martin's School of Art, London, and the Royal College of Art in Londonwhere he met and then married his future wife, Doris Dutch. He later worked as a film animator and graphic artist. At the age of 23, he became a Fellow of London's Royal Society of Arts and was one of the founding members of London's Graphic Arts Group.
The Dutches moved to New Zealand in 1951 and Ted Dutchgained recognition as a prominent artist in the local art scene while his wife became a prominent potter. He experimented with screen printing in his early days, and his first fine art screen print dates back to 1962. He later ventured into painting and ceramic sculpture, influenced by screen printing advancements. Dutch's art is characterized by a unique philosophical perspective, which often features ambiguous machinery, space men, meandering cities, musicians, kings, and medieval knights.
In addition to his work as an artist and potter, Ted Dutch
was also a teacher and lecturer. He taught at the Elam School of Fine Arts in
Auckland, and he also gave workshops and lectures throughout New Zealand. He
was a passionate advocate for the arts, and he was committed to helping others
to develop their creative talents.
The Dutches worked together for over 40 years, and their
work was exhibited in galleries and museums throughout New Zealand and
Australia. They were both awarded the Queen's Service Medal for their services
to the arts in 1990.
Dutch's international recognition came later in his life, and his work is held in the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, Wellington; Auckland Art GalleryToi O Tamaki; Hocken Pictorial Collections; Waikato Museum Te Whare Taonga O Waikato; Auckland War Memorial Museum.
Ted Dutch died in 2008.
Tekno Toys
Tekno was a Danish manufacturing company of scale model trucks and other vehicles, currently headquartered in De Lier, Netherlands. Originally established and based in Copenhagen, Tekno began manufacturing construction toys in 1928 and model vehicles immediately after World War II, selling 1 million a year during its peak.
The company was founded by Aksel Siegumfeldt, a plumber from Copenhagen, who after many years of producing wooden toys, began producing die-cast vehicles post-war perhaps late 1945. Through the 1950s, Tekno gradually became a main competitor, even to Dinky Toys. Brochures show that the company regally celebrated its 25th anniversary in 1953.
Tekno's models were known for their high quality and realism. They were made of die-cast metal and had many working features, such as opening doors and hoods, and moving wheels. Tekno also produced a wide range of vehicles, including trucks, cars, buses, airplanes, and tractors.
The company's popularity peaked in the 1960s and 1970s, but it began to decline in the 1980s due to competition from cheaper foreign imports. Tekno went bankrupt in 1982, but the company's assets were bought by a Dutch company, Van Min, which continued to produce Tekno models under the name "Tekno Holland".
Tekno Holland continued to produce models until 1993, when it too went bankrupt. The rights to the Tekno name were then acquired by a group of Danish investors, who revived the company in 1995. The new Tekno company produces a limited range of high-end collector's models.
Temuka Potteries
Temuka Potteries is an iconic household name in New Zealand and overseas. The business began in 1868 as Temuka Brickworks, a brick and pipe manufacturer. The company had many name changes over the years but in 1942 the company was taken over by NEECO (National Electric and Engineering Co. Ltd) and became New Zealand Insulators, which made the electric insulator first for the telephone in the 1920s and then for electricity in the 1930s. In 1930, the company diversified into producing pottery, supplying electric jugs, and later crockery to the New Zealand Railways, and the brand "Temuka Pottery" was born.
One of Temuka Pottery’s best selling ranges was the Riverstone series of the 1970s, designed by Jack Laird, and the matt, brown Riverstone range sold millions of pieces. Riverstone fell out of fashion with a movement to pink and grey and then to the highly decorated versions of Temuka pottery which included hand decorated items of the 1990’s. Sales volumes decreased over the following 20 years as low cost import products flooded into the New Zealand market.
As from 2017 production of Temuka Pottery was relocated to Palmerston North. However the pottery is still sold in Temuka at the Temuka Pottery / Mendelson Barn and cafe. Temuka Pottery became a separate company to New Zealand Insulators and it continues to flourish and carry on the grand history that has gone before it.
Tennis Set
Tennis became a popular pastime in the 1860s and 1870s, and the tennis set was brought out when it was time for refreshments. A tennis set comprises a tea or coffee cup on an elongated 'saucer', the extra space on the saucer designed to hold a delicate cucumber sandwich or cake.
Tennis+bracelets
An in-line diamond bracelet, so called because at the U.S. Open tennis tournament in 1987, Steffi Graf was wearing a bracelet of this design, which snapped in the middle of play and fell onto the court, at which time she requested the match be halted so she could retrieve the pieces.
Terracotta
Terracotta is lightly fired earthenware, red or reddish-brown in colour, used in ancient times. Fired at higher temperatures terracotta was used in the nineteenth century for decorative vases and similar objects, but rarely for utilitarian goods. Other uses for terracotta include roofing tiles, garden pots and ornaments. Glazed terracotta is known as faience.
Terry Stringer
Terry Stringer was born in Redruth, Cornwall, England in 1946 and migrated to New Zealand in 1952. He graduated from the University of Auckland, New Zealand, School of Fine Arts (Elam) in 1967.
Stringer's sculptures have been exhibited extensively throughout New Zealand and internationally, and he has been the recipient of numerous awards and scholarships, including the Queen Elizabeth II Arts Council Scholarship three times. In the 2003 New Year Honours, Stringer was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit, (ONZM) for services to sculpture.
Stringer's work is held in many public and private collections throughout New Zealand, including the Auckland Art Gallery Toi o T?maki, the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhet?, the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, and the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre. He has also completed a number of public commissions, including "The Risen Christ" (1999) in Cathedral Square in Christchurch, "Mountain Fountain" outside The Holy Trinity Cathedral, Auckland, and "The World Grasped" (2006) in Newmarket.
Stringer's sculptures are often described as being "enigmatic" and "ambiguous". They often play with the viewer's perceptions of space and form, and they can be interpreted in multiple ways. Terry Stringer now lives and works at his sculpture park Zealandia in the countryside north of Auckland, and is one of the most important sculptors presently working in New Zealand.
Tessa Furniture
Fred Lowen founded Tessa Furniture with his brother Howard Lindsey and design technician Sigi Danielzik in 1968. Initially named Twen, the company was later renamed Tessa in 1970. Prior to this, Lowen had co-founded Fler Furniture with Ernest Rodeck in the mid-1950s, which was sold in 1967.
Tessa Furniture gained a reputation for its Scandinavian-influenced design and high-quality Australian craftsmanship. The company expanded operations during the 1970s, becoming a national operation with international links. One of Tessa's most iconic designs was the T4 chair, which featured a laminated timber frame and a sling made from a durable, stretchy fabric. The design was inspired by the hammock that Lowen slept in on the Dunera during his journey to Australia as a refugee. The T4 chair became a symbol of Australian modernism and was highly sought after by consumers.
Lowen received a number of design awards for Tessa Furniture, including the Dunhill Design Award in 1970. The T4 Hammock chair was displayed at the Cologne Fair in 1971. Impeccable attention to detail was displayed through the sculptural frame and joinery in Tessa's pieces.
Tessa Furniture ceased production in 2019, but its legacy as an important part of Australian design history lives on.
Tester
The tester is the flat wooden canopy above a bed. A four poster bed is a full tester bed, as the canopy frame follows the perimeter of the entire bed. In a half tester bed, the frame extends only over the upper (pillow) half of the bed.
Thancoupie
Thancoupie, born Gloria Fletcher in Napranam FNQ , is widely credited as the founder of the Indigenous ceramics movement in Australia.
Her early years were spent as a primary school teacher, and it was not until 1971, when in her mid 30's, that she moved from her remote home in the Cape, to the urban environment of East Sydney Technical College.
Here she began her training under the guidance of famed Australian ceramicist, Peter Rushforth and the great Japanese potter Shiga Shigeo.
Through the 1970’s she exhibit with the best artists, sculptors and craft-makers as a contemporary artist, rather than an Aboriginal Australian artist. In 1983 she visited Sao Paulo as Australia’s Cultural Commissioner to the 17th Biennale and her works subsequently toured Brazil and Mexico and later were included in the Portsmouth Festival in the UK.
She produced more than 15 solo exhibitions, in Australia and overseas, and exhibited at many of Australia's finest commercial galleries including The Hogarth Galleries in Sydney, Chapman Gallery in Canberra, and Gabrielle Pizzi and William Mora Galleries in Melbourne.
Important survey shows have been held at Manly Regional Gallery in Sydney, and Tandanya Aboriginal Cultural Centre in Adelaide. In 2001, eighty works spanning her entire career were presented in a survey exhibition at the Brisbane City Gallery. She is represented in the collections of the National Gallery of Australia as well as State art galleries and museums in Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Queensland.
Thancoupie spent much of the last 30 years mentoring aspiring artists from communities in Far North Queensland, Arnhem Land, the desert and the Tiwi Islands as well as influencing Indigenous and non-Indigenous students enrolled in art and professional development courses.
She died in 2011 at Weipa Base Hospital FNQ after a long illness.
The Eagle
The eagle has been a symbol of power, victory, and strength for centuries. It is often associated with bravery, prowess, and dominance, and has been used as a symbol by many cultures and civilizations throughout history.
In ancient Greece, the eagle was associated with the god Zeus, who was considered the king of the gods and the ruler of the skies. In many cultures, the eagle was seen as a messenger between the physical world and the spirit world, and was associated with the sun and the sky.
In the Roman Empire, the eagle was the symbol of the Roman army, and was displayed on the standards of the soldiers to show the power and authority of the empire. In medieval Europe, the eagle was used as a symbol of power and victory by monarchs and rulers, and was often depicted in art and architecture as a symbol of strength and courage.
In modern times, the eagle continues to be a symbol of power, victory, and strength. It is often used as a symbol by nations and organisations, and is frequently depicted in art and on monuments to commemorate important events and achievements.
The eagle's powerful appearance, combined with its association with freedom, courage, and dominance, makes it a popular and enduring symbol of power and victory.
The Hubley Manufacturing Co.
The Hubley Manufacturing Co. was an American toy company that was founded in 1894 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. The company began by producing cast-iron toys, including trains, cars, and other vehicles. As the company grew, it expanded its product line to include a wide range of other toys and products, such as cap guns, trucks, and airplanes.
One of the most popular products made by Hubley was the "Gabriel" cap gun, which was first introduced in the 1920s. The company also produced a wide range of other cap guns, including replicas of guns used by law enforcement and the military.
In addition to cap guns, Hubley was also known for producing a range of other popular toys, including die-cast metal vehicles, such as the famous Hubley Kiddie Toy line of cars, trucks, and airplanes. Hubley also produced a range of other metal toys, such as farm and construction equipment, trains, and figurines.
During World War II, Hubley shifted its production to help support the war effort, producing items such as shell casings and other military equipment. After the war, the company continued to produce a wide range of toys and other products, including plastic toys and board games.
In the 1960s, the company began to face financial difficulties due to increased competition from foreign manufacturers and changing consumer tastes. The company was sold several times over the years, and the Hubley name continued to be used on some products until the 1970s, when the company was finally dissolved.
The London Goldsmiths & Silversmiths Company Ltd
The London Goldsmiths & Silversmiths Company Ltd. was a British silver manufacturing company established in 1885 by were William Gibson and John Lawrence Langman. Following the absorption in 1893 of the Goldsmiths' Alliance Ltd, the Goldsmiths & Silversmiths Co was converted into a limited liability company. The company's main workshop was located at 112 Regent Street in London and was designed by the architect John Loughborough Pearson.
The London Goldsmiths & Silversmiths Company was known for producing high-quality silverware, including flatware, hollow ware, and decorative objects. The company's pieces were often characterized by their ornate designs, intricate detailing, and excellent craftsmanship. Some of their most popular patterns included "Kings", "Chased and Engraved", and "Chippendale".
In addition to silverware, the London Goldsmiths & Silversmiths Company also produced jewelry and other luxury goods, such as watches, clocks, and barometers. The company's products were sold both in the UK and internationally, and the company had showrooms in London, Paris, and Buenos Aires.
The London Goldsmiths & Silversmiths Company Ltd. remained in operation until 1952, when it was acquired by the Garrard & Co. Ltd.
View further examples of The London Goldsmiths & Silversmiths Company Ltd
The Smith Family of Silversmiths
The Smith family of silversmiths in London was one of the most successful and respected in the 19th century. The family business was founded in 1800 by George Smith Sr., who was apprenticed to the renowned silversmith Paul Storr. Smith Sr. quickly established himself as a skilled and innovative silversmith, and his work was soon in high demand among the aristocracy and wealthy middle class.
In 1820, George Smith Jr. joined the family business, and together father and son created some of the most beautiful and iconic silver pieces of the 19th century. Their work was characterized by its elegant design, exquisite craftsmanship, and use of high-quality materials. The Smiths were also known for their ability to produce silver in a wide range of styles, from traditional to neoclassical to romantic.
The Smith family business was particularly successful during the Victorian era. During this time, there was a great demand for silver, and the Smiths were able to meet this demand by producing a wide range of silver objects, including tableware, tea sets, coffee sets, candlesticks, and centerpieces. The Smiths also produced a number of important ceremonial pieces, such as the silver trowel used to lay the foundation stone of the Houses of Parliament in 1834.
The Smith family business continued to thrive in the late 19th century, even in the face of increasing competition from foreign silversmiths. The Smiths were able to maintain their position at the forefront of the British silver industry by continuing to produce high-quality silver in a variety of styles. The family business also benefited from the support of a number of royal patrons, including Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
The Smith family of silversmiths played a significant role in the development of British silver in the 19th century. Their work is still admired and collected today for its beauty, craftsmanship, and historical importance.
Notable members of the Smith family of silversmiths
• George Smith Sr. (1769-1845) - Founder of the family business and one of the most renowned silversmiths of the 19th century.
• George Smith Jr. (1793-1866) - Joined the family business in 1820 and worked alongside his father to create some of the most beautiful and iconic silver pieces of the 19th century.
• William Henry Smith (1825-1891) - Son of George Smith Jr. and a successful silversmith in his own right. He was also a Member of Parliament and served as First Lord of the Admiralty from 1877 to 1880.
• Edward William Smith (1856-1933) - Son of William Henry Smith and a talented silversmith who continued the family tradition of producing high-quality silver in a variety of styles.
Examples of the Smith family's work
• The silver trowel used to lay the foundation stone of the Houses of Parliament in 1834.
• The silver cradle used for the christening of Prince Arthur, the son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, in 1850.
• The silver centerpiece commissioned by the City of London to commemorate the visit of Napoleon III in 1855.
• The silver tea set presented to Queen Victoria on her Diamond Jubilee in 1897.
The Smith family's work is on display in museums and private collections around the world. The Victoria and Albert Museum in London has a particularly fine collection of Smith silver, including a number of pieces that were commissioned by the British royal family.
The Smith Family of Silversmiths
The Smith family of silversmiths in London was one of the most successful and respected in the 19th century. The family business was founded in 1800 by George Smith Sr., who was apprenticed to the renowned silversmith Paul Storr. Smith Sr. quickly established himself as a skilled and innovative silversmith, and his work was soon in high demand among the aristocracy and wealthy middle class.
In 1820, George Smith Jr. joined the family business, and together father and son created some of the most beautiful and iconic silver pieces of the 19th century. Their work was characterized by its elegant design, exquisite craftsmanship, and use of high-quality materials. The Smiths were also known for their ability to produce silver in a wide range of styles, from traditional to neoclassical to romantic.
The Smith family business was particularly successful during the Victorian era. During this time, there was a great demand for silver, and the Smiths were able to meet this demand by producing a wide range of silver objects, including tableware, tea sets, coffee sets, candlesticks, and centerpieces. The Smiths also produced a number of important ceremonial pieces, such as the silver trowel used to lay the foundation stone of the Houses of Parliament in 1834.
The Smith family business continued to thrive in the late 19th century, even in the face of increasing competition from foreign silversmiths. The Smiths were able to maintain their position at the forefront of the British silver industry by continuing to produce high-quality silver in a variety of styles. The family business also benefited from the support of a number of royal patrons, including Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
The Smith family of silversmiths played a significant role in the development of British silver in the 19th century. Their work is still admired and collected today for its beauty, craftsmanship, and historical importance.
Notable members of the Smith family of silversmiths
• George Smith Sr. (1769-1845) - Founder of the family business and one of the most renowned silversmiths of the 19th century.
• George Smith Jr. (1793-1866) - Joined the family business in 1820 and worked alongside his father to create some of the most beautiful and iconic silver pieces of the 19th century.
• William Henry Smith (1825-1891) - Son of George Smith Jr. and a successful silversmith in his own right. He was also a Member of Parliament and served as First Lord of the Admiralty from 1877 to 1880.
• Edward William Smith (1856-1933) - Son of William Henry Smith and a talented silversmith who continued the family tradition of producing high-quality silver in a variety of styles.
Examples of the Smith family's work
• The silver trowel used to lay the foundation stone of the Houses of Parliament in 1834.
• The silver cradle used for the christening of Prince Arthur, the son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, in 1850.
• The silver centerpiece commissioned by the City of London to commemorate the visit of Napoleon III in 1855.
• The silver tea set presented to Queen Victoria on her Diamond Jubilee in 1897.
The Smith family's work is on display in museums and private collections around the world. The Victoria and Albert Museum in London has a particularly fine collection of Smith silver, including a number of pieces that were commissioned by the British royal family.
The Smith Family of Silversmiths
The Smith family of silversmiths in London was one of the most successful and respected in the 19th century. The family business was founded in 1800 by George Smith Sr., who was apprenticed to the renowned silversmith Paul Storr. Smith Sr. quickly established himself as a skilled and innovative silversmith, and his work was soon in high demand among the aristocracy and wealthy middle class.
In 1820, George Smith Jr. joined the family business, and together father and son created some of the most beautiful and iconic silver pieces of the 19th century. Their work was characterized by its elegant design, exquisite craftsmanship, and use of high-quality materials. The Smiths were also known for their ability to produce silver in a wide range of styles, from traditional to neoclassical to romantic.
The Smith family business was particularly successful during the Victorian era. During this time, there was a great demand for silver, and the Smiths were able to meet this demand by producing a wide range of silver objects, including tableware, tea sets, coffee sets, candlesticks, and centerpieces. The Smiths also produced a number of important ceremonial pieces, such as the silver trowel used to lay the foundation stone of the Houses of Parliament in 1834.
The Smith family business continued to thrive in the late 19th century, even in the face of increasing competition from foreign silversmiths. The Smiths were able to maintain their position at the forefront of the British silver industry by continuing to produce high-quality silver in a variety of styles. The family business also benefited from the support of a number of royal patrons, including Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
The Smith family of silversmiths played a significant role in the development of British silver in the 19th century. Their work is still admired and collected today for its beauty, craftsmanship, and historical importance.
Notable members of the Smith family of silversmiths
• George Smith Sr. (1769-1845) - Founder of the family business and one of the most renowned silversmiths of the 19th century.
• George Smith Jr. (1793-1866) - Joined the family business in 1820 and worked alongside his father to create some of the most beautiful and iconic silver pieces of the 19th century.
• William Henry Smith (1825-1891) - Son of George Smith Jr. and a successful silversmith in his own right. He was also a Member of Parliament and served as First Lord of the Admiralty from 1877 to 1880.
• Edward William Smith (1856-1933) - Son of William Henry Smith and a talented silversmith who continued the family tradition of producing high-quality silver in a variety of styles.
Examples of the Smith family's work
• The silver trowel used to lay the foundation stone of the Houses of Parliament in 1834.
• The silver cradle used for the christening of Prince Arthur, the son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, in 1850.
• The silver centerpiece commissioned by the City of London to commemorate the visit of Napoleon III in 1855.
• The silver tea set presented to Queen Victoria on her Diamond Jubilee in 1897.
The Smith family's work is on display in museums and private collections around the world. The Victoria and Albert Museum in London has a particularly fine collection of Smith silver, including a number of pieces that were commissioned by the British royal family.
The Smith Family of Silversmiths
The Smith family of silversmiths in London was one of the most successful and respected in the 19th century. The family business was founded in 1800 by George Smith Sr., who was apprenticed to the renowned silversmith Paul Storr. Smith Sr. quickly established himself as a skilled and innovative silversmith, and his work was soon in high demand among the aristocracy and wealthy middle class.
In 1820, George Smith Jr. joined the family business, and together father and son created some of the most beautiful and iconic silver pieces of the 19th century. Their work was characterized by its elegant design, exquisite craftsmanship, and use of high-quality materials. The Smiths were also known for their ability to produce silver in a wide range of styles, from traditional to neoclassical to romantic.
The Smith family business was particularly successful during the Victorian era. During this time, there was a great demand for silver, and the Smiths were able to meet this demand by producing a wide range of silver objects, including tableware, tea sets, coffee sets, candlesticks, and centerpieces. The Smiths also produced a number of important ceremonial pieces, such as the silver trowel used to lay the foundation stone of the Houses of Parliament in 1834.
The Smith family business continued to thrive in the late 19th century, even in the face of increasing competition from foreign silversmiths. The Smiths were able to maintain their position at the forefront of the British silver industry by continuing to produce high-quality silver in a variety of styles. The family business also benefited from the support of a number of royal patrons, including Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
The Smith family of silversmiths played a significant role in the development of British silver in the 19th century. Their work is still admired and collected today for its beauty, craftsmanship, and historical importance.
Notable members of the Smith family of silversmiths
• George Smith Sr. (1769-1845) - Founder of the family business and one of the most renowned silversmiths of the 19th century.
• George Smith Jr. (1793-1866) - Joined the family business in 1820 and worked alongside his father to create some of the most beautiful and iconic silver pieces of the 19th century.
• William Henry Smith (1825-1891) - Son of George Smith Jr. and a successful silversmith in his own right. He was also a Member of Parliament and served as First Lord of the Admiralty from 1877 to 1880.
• Edward William Smith (1856-1933) - Son of William Henry Smith and a talented silversmith who continued the family tradition of producing high-quality silver in a variety of styles.
Examples of the Smith family's work
• The silver trowel used to lay the foundation stone of the Houses of Parliament in 1834.
• The silver cradle used for the christening of Prince Arthur, the son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, in 1850.
• The silver centerpiece commissioned by the City of London to commemorate the visit of Napoleon III in 1855.
• The silver tea set presented to Queen Victoria on her Diamond Jubilee in 1897.
The Smith family's work is on display in museums and private collections around the world. The Victoria and Albert Museum in London has a particularly fine collection of Smith silver, including a number of pieces that were commissioned by the British royal family.
The Smith Family of Silversmiths
The Smith family of silversmiths in London was one of the most successful and respected in the 19th century. The family business was founded in 1800 by George Smith Sr., who was apprenticed to the renowned silversmith Paul Storr. Smith Sr. quickly established himself as a skilled and innovative silversmith, and his work was soon in high demand among the aristocracy and wealthy middle class.
In 1820, George Smith Jr. joined the family business, and together father and son created some of the most beautiful and iconic silver pieces of the 19th century. Their work was characterized by its elegant design, exquisite craftsmanship, and use of high-quality materials. The Smiths were also known for their ability to produce silver in a wide range of styles, from traditional to neoclassical to romantic.
The Smith family business was particularly successful during the Victorian era. During this time, there was a great demand for silver, and the Smiths were able to meet this demand by producing a wide range of silver objects, including tableware, tea sets, coffee sets, candlesticks, and centerpieces. The Smiths also produced a number of important ceremonial pieces, such as the silver trowel used to lay the foundation stone of the Houses of Parliament in 1834.
The Smith family business continued to thrive in the late 19th century, even in the face of increasing competition from foreign silversmiths. The Smiths were able to maintain their position at the forefront of the British silver industry by continuing to produce high-quality silver in a variety of styles. The family business also benefited from the support of a number of royal patrons, including Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
The Smith family of silversmiths played a significant role in the development of British silver in the 19th century. Their work is still admired and collected today for its beauty, craftsmanship, and historical importance.
Notable members of the Smith family of silversmiths
• George Smith Sr. (1769-1845) - Founder of the family business and one of the most renowned silversmiths of the 19th century.
• George Smith Jr. (1793-1866) - Joined the family business in 1820 and worked alongside his father to create some of the most beautiful and iconic silver pieces of the 19th century.
• William Henry Smith (1825-1891) - Son of George Smith Jr. and a successful silversmith in his own right. He was also a Member of Parliament and served as First Lord of the Admiralty from 1877 to 1880.
• Edward William Smith (1856-1933) - Son of William Henry Smith and a talented silversmith who continued the family tradition of producing high-quality silver in a variety of styles.
Examples of the Smith family's work
• The silver trowel used to lay the foundation stone of the Houses of Parliament in 1834.
• The silver cradle used for the christening of Prince Arthur, the son of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, in 1850.
• The silver centerpiece commissioned by the City of London to commemorate the visit of Napoleon III in 1855.
• The silver tea set presented to Queen Victoria on her Diamond Jubilee in 1897.
The Smith family's work is on display in museums and private collections around the world. The Victoria and Albert Museum in London has a particularly fine collection of Smith silver, including a number of pieces that were commissioned by the British royal family.
Theo Janssen
Theo Janssen, is a Dutch born sculptor who emigrated to New Zealand in 1958. He was born in the Netherlands in 1934. He studied drawing and sculpture before arriving in New Zealand. Like his older brother Peter (1930–.), he worked with bronze, marble, polyester, and wood. He is best known for his sculptural, mosaic, and stained glass work.
Janssen's work is often abstract and geometric, with a strong emphasis on form and color. He was also interested in the relationship between art and architecture, and many of his works were designed to be integrated into buildings.
Some of Janssen's most notable works include the stained glass windows at St. Mary's Church in Wellington, the mosaic mural at the National Bank of New Zealand in Auckland, and the bronze sculpture "Rampart" at the Auckland War Memorial Museum.
Janssen's work has been exhibited in galleries and museums throughout New Zealand and internationally. He has also received numerous awards for his work, including the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2009.
Janssen died in 2014 at the age of 80. He left behind a legacy as one of New Zealand's most important and influential sculptors.
Theo Schoon
Born in 1915 in Java, Indonesia, Theo Schoon arrived in New Zealand from Indonesia in 1939 where he studied at Canterbury School of Arts. His Dutch parents sent him and his brother to the Netherlands for further education, where he attended the Rotterdam Academy of Fine Arts, and travelled in Europe, acquiring first-hand knowledge of European modernism. He returned to Java in 1936 and then moved to New Zealand in 1939 with his family. He was one of the early European artists to be influenced by Maori culture, and known as a painter, sculptor, photographer and ceramicist. <p>He died in 1985.
Theodore Deck
Theodore Deck (1823 - 1891) began his career as a stove-maker, working first in Vienna, where he produced stoves for Schönbrunn Palace, and after 1847, in Paris. At the Exposition Universelle held in Paris in 1855, he was so impressed by the Minton factory's brightly coloured majolica wares that he decided to produce his own. The following year, he opened a factory for 'artistic faience.' Inspired by the designs and colours of Turkish Iznik wares, he developed his own range of colours, including a distinctive turquoise known as 'bleu Deck.' Deck employed a number of noted artists to work for him and continued to exhibit in the various international exhibitions, winning a wide following both in England and America as well as in France. Deck derived inspiration from both Near Eastern and Asian ceramics.
Thomas Barker
Thomas Barker was a London silversmith active from 1805 to 1827. He was a member of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths and his work is marked with the hallmarks of London.
Barker's silver is known for its high quality and elegant design. He produced a wide range of items, including tea and coffee services, dessert services, candlesticks, and other decorative pieces. His work is often characterized by its use of classical motifs and delicate ornamentation.
Some of Barker's most notable pieces include a George III fiddle and thread pattern teapot and cover (1817), a George III Old English pattern dessert spoon (1814), and a George IV fiddle pattern salt spoon (1824). These pieces are all well-made and beautifully decorated, and they represent the best of Barker's silversmithing skills.
Thomas Baxter, Worcester Artist / Engraver
Thomas Baxter was an engraver who worked at Worcester from 1758 until 1784. He was known for his highly detailed designs and exquisite workmanship. Some of his most famous designs include the "Baxter Birds," a series of
plates decorated with finely engraved bird images, which are now highly prized by collectors. Baxter's work had a significant impact on the development of the Worcester factory's style during the 18th century.
View further examples of Thomas Baxter, Worcester Artist / Engraver
Thomas Bott
Thomas Bott (1829 - 1870) worked as a porcelain painter and designer at the Royal Worcester porcelain factory in Worcester, England in the mid- to late-19th century. During this period, Worcester was one of the most important porcelain manufacturers in England, and Thomas Bott was involved in the production of a wide range of porcelain wares, including tableware, figurines, and vases. He is credited with creating the Limoges enamel style inspired by the medieval enamels created in that city. The style was revived in the 19th century.
Thomas Bradbury & Sons
Thomas Bradbury & Sons was a Sheffield based company and one of the most prominent manufacturers of silverware items and Old Sheffield plate in the 19th century. They were known for their high quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. The family run business was established by Thomas Bradbury in 1793. In the early days they were mainly producing Old Sheffield plate items, and later branched into silverware. The company was converted to a limited liability company in 1905 and continued in business until 1943 when its dies and tooling were purchased by Atkin Brothers.
Thomas Earnshaw
Thomas Earnshaw (1749 – 1829 )was a British clock and watch maker who was a renowned inventor and craftsman, known for his contributions to the development of the marine chronometer, used for navigation at sea.
Earnshaw is credited with standardizing the design of the marine chronometer, making it a more reliable and accurate instrument for navigation. He also developed a process for hardening the balance springs used in chronometers, which made them more durable and resistant to temperature changes.
In addition to his work on marine chronometers, Earnshaw was also known for his high-quality pocket watches. He was known for his attention to detail and his use of innovative technologies, and his watches were highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs.
Earnshaw's contributions to the field of horology were widely recognized during his lifetime, and he was awarded several patents for his innovations. Today, he is remembered as one of the most important figures in the history of clock and watch making, and his legacy continues to influence the field of horology.
Thomas Earnshaw Balance Springs
Thomas Earnshaw (1749 – 1829 )was a British clock and watch maker who was a renowned inventor and craftsman. Earnshaw is credited with standardizing the design of the marine chronometer, making it a more reliable and accurate instrument for navigation. He also developed a process for hardening the balance springs used in chronometers, which made them more durable and resistant to temperature changes.
Thomas Forester & Sons
Thomas Forester and Sons Ltd was a pottery manufacturer based in Longton, Staffordshire, England. The company was founded in 1877 by Thomas Forester, a skilled potter who had previously worked for other pottery companies in the area. Forester started his own business with the aim of producing high-quality majolica ware.
Majolica is a type of pottery that is decorated with colorful glazes. It was very popular in the Victorian era, and Forester's majolica ware was quickly in high demand. The company's products were sold all over the world, and they were known for their intricate designs and vibrant colors.
In 1879, Forester built a new pottery factory in Longton, which he called the Phoenix Works. The new factory was much larger than the company's previous premises, and it allowed Forester to increase his production capacity. The company continued to grow and prosper throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
In addition to majolica ware, Thomas Forester and Sons Ltd also produced a wide range of other ceramic products, including earthenware, china, and stoneware. The company's products were known for their high quality and craftsmanship. Thomas Forester and Sons Ltd was also one of the first pottery companies in England to produce Art Deco ceramics.
The company was incorporated as a limited company in 1891, and it was renamed Thomas Forester and Sons Ltd in 1900. At its peak, the company employed over 700 people and had showrooms in London, Paris, Berlin, and Vienna.
In the mid-20th century, the pottery industry in Staffordshire began to decline. This was due to a number of factors, including foreign competition and the rising cost of labour. Thomas Forester and Sons Ltd was one of the many pottery companies in the area that was forced to close. The company closed its doors in 1959 after 80 years of production.
Despite its relatively short lifespan, Thomas Forester and Sons Ltd produced some of the most beautiful and sought-after ceramics of the Victorian and Edwardian eras.
Thomas François Cartier
Thomas François Cartier was a French animal sculptor and illustrator. He was born on February 21, 1879 in Marseille and studied at the École des Beaux-Arts under Georges Gardet (1863-1939) and Victor Peter. He specialized in animal sculpture of hunting dogs, lions and other big cats, with great accuracy. He exhibited at the Salon des Artistes Français from 1904 and received several medals of which a gold medal in 1927. During the First World War, he became an illustrator and produced numerous postcards for anti-German propaganda and to support the ‘poilus’. After the war, he settled in Saint-Amand-en-Puisaye and designed many war medals. He died in 1943.
Thomas Goode & Co. (component Definition)
Thomas Goode & Co. is a luxury homeware retailer based in London that has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The company was founded in 1827 by Thomas Goode, a silversmith, and quickly established itself as one of London's leading retailers of fine china, silverware, and glassware, supplying the Royal Household and the Tsar of Russia.
In 1845 Thomas Goode & Co. moved to 19 South Audley Street London from where they still trade, and despite several changes in ownership of the business, and a change in ownership of the South Audley Street property, the company remains committed to its founding principles of quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.
View further examples of Thomas Goode & Co. (component Definition)
Thomas Goode & Co., London
Thomas Goode & Co. is a luxury homeware retailer based in London that has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The company was founded in 1827 by Thomas Goode, a silversmith, and quickly established itself as one of London's leading retailers of fine china, silverware, and glassware.
In 1845 Thomas Goode & Co. moved to 19 South Audley Street London and first opened their doors to Mayfair's retail customers back in 1875. During the 19th century, Thomas Goode & Co. became known for their exceptional quality and attention to detail, and the company's products were highly sought after by the upper classes. It is said that Queen Victoria and the Tsar of Russia were amongst their customers. The company was particularly renowned for its exceptional silverware, which was made by the finest craftsmen of the time and was considered to be some of the best in the world.
In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Thomas Goode & Co. continued to thrive and evolve, and their customers in this period included Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles, for which it holds Royal Warrants to supply the Royal Household. Despite several changes in ownership of the business, and a change in ownership of the South Audley Street property, it remains committed to its founding principles of quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail.
Thomas Hannam and John Crouch Ii
Thomas Hannam and John Crouch II were notable London
silversmiths who operated during the 18th century. They were known for their
skilled craftsmanship and for producing high-quality silver pieces in the
Georgian style. While they are often mentioned together, they were distinct
individuals who collaborated on various projects.
Thomas Hannam (1710-1770) was an accomplished silversmith
who established his silver workshop in London and gained a reputation for
producing finely crafted silverware. He became a Freeman of the Goldsmiths'
Company in 1730, which allowed him to practice his craft as a recognized
silversmith in the city.
Hannam's work is often associated with the Rococo style, a
decorative and ornate style that was popular in the mid-18th century. His
pieces featured intricate designs, elaborate motifs, and a high level of
detail. He produced a wide range of silverware, including tea sets, coffee
pots, trays, candlesticks, and more. His pieces were sought after for their
exquisite craftsmanship and elegant designs.
John Crouch II (1711-1772) was another accomplished
silversmith who worked in London during the same period. Like Hannam, Crouch
was also a Freeman of the Goldsmiths' Company, which signified his membership
and recognition as a skilled silversmith. Crouch is known for producing
silverware in the Rococo style as well. His work featured elaborate scrollwork,
floral motifs, and other decorative elements characteristic of the period.
He collaborated with Thomas Hannam on various projects, and
their combined talents contributed to the creation of exquisite silver pieces. Crouch's
craftsmanship and attention to detail earned him a place among the respected
silversmiths of his time.
Both Thomas Hannam and John Crouch II were active during a
period of significant artistic and design development in London. Their work
reflects the artistic sensibilities and preferences of the Georgian era, and
their silver pieces are cherished examples of 18th-century craftsmanship.
Thomas Hope
Thomas Hope (1769-1831) was a British furniture designer, collector, and art critic. He was born into a wealthy banking family and was educated at Cambridge University. Hope was a man of many interests, including art, literature, and politics, but he is best known for his work as a furniture designer and collector.
Hope's interest in furniture and design was sparked by his extensive travels throughout Europe, where he studied the works of the ancient Greeks and Romans. He was particularly inspired by the neoclassical style, which he saw as a return to the principles of simplicity, harmony, and beauty that he admired in the classical world.
In 1799, Hope published a book entitled "Household Furniture and Interior Decoration," which detailed his ideas on design and showcased his own furniture designs. The book was widely read and influential and helped to popularize the neoclassical style in England.
Hope was also a collector of art and antiquities, and his collection was one of the largest and most diverse in Europe. He acquired ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, vases, and coins, as well as paintings by contemporary artists such as J.M.W. Turner and Thomas Lawrence.
Hope's own furniture designs were notable for their clean lines, use of classical motifs, and innovative use of materials such as bronze and glass. His designs were often grand in scale and intended for use in large country houses and public spaces.
Some of Hope's most famous furniture designs include his "Egyptian" or "Pharaonic" furniture, which was inspired by the art and architecture of ancient Egypt. These designs featured sphinxes, lotus flowers, and other Egyptian motifs, and were highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs of the time.
Hope's designs and collection continue being studied and appreciated by scholars and enthusiasts around the world.
Thomas Sheraton
Thomas Sheraton (1751-1806) was born in Stockton on Tees in the north of England. He was apprenticed to a local cabinetmaker and after working as a cabinetmaker, Sheraton moved to London about 1790. Although he described himself as a cabinet-maker, like Chippendale, no definite piece of furniture can be traced to him as maker. Nevertheless, he was immensely influential and in 1791-4 published his four volume book 'The Cabinet-Maker and Upholsterer's Drawing Book'. The books were used as source of design by the furniture-making trade , who often simplified or modified the designs to suit their own preferences. Sheraton furniture is marked by restraint and sophistication, elegance and discretion, though he also found time to invent fanciful combination furniture.
Thomas Smily
Thomas Smily was a London silversmith who was active during the Victorian era. He was born in 1827, the younger son of William Smily, who was also a silversmith. Thomas Smily apprenticed to his father and was granted his freedom by the Goldsmiths' Company in 1848. He then worked with his father for the firm of A.B. Savory & Sons.
In 1858, Thomas Smily's brother, William Robert Smily, died unexpectedly. Thomas Smily took over the management of the family business, which continued to trade under the name of W.R. Smily. The firm specialized in the production of high-quality silver tableware, including candlesticks, tea sets, and dessert services. They also produced a variety of other items, such as christening cups, wedding presents, and inkstands.
Thomas Smily was a talented silversmith and his work is highly regarded by collectors. His pieces are known for their fine craftsmanship and elegant design. He was also a member of the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths and served as Master of the Company in 1882.
Thomas Smily retired from the silversmithing trade in 1883 and emigrated to Canada. He died in 1918 at the age of 91.
Thomas Webb & Sons
Thomas Webb & Sons was a ceramics importer and retailer in Melbourne, Australia. The company was founded in 1880 by Thomas Webb, a British immigrant. Webb was a skilled potter and had worked in the ceramics industry in England before coming to Australia.
The company quickly became one of the leading ceramics importers in Melbourne. It specialized in high-quality British ceramics, including pieces from Wedgwood, Minton, Royal Worcester and Royal Doulton. Webb also imported other types of homewares, such as glassware, silverware, and furniture.
The company's flagship store was located in a three story building at 234-236 Collins Street, Melbourne. The store was a landmark in the city and was known for its elegant displays of ceramics and other homewares.
Thomas Webb & Sons continued to operate successfully for many years. However, in 1930, the stock and goodwill of the company was acquired by the Myer Emporium. The Myer Emporium was a major department store chain in Australia and it wanted to expand its ceramics and homewares business.
The acquisition of Thomas Webb & Sons by Myer Emporium marked the end of an era.
Thomas Webb & Sons
Thomas Webb & Sons was a British glassware manufacturing company that was established in 1837 by Thomas Webb, a glassmaker from Stourbridge, England. Initially, the company produced bottles and flasks but later began to focus on producing high-quality glassware such as art glass and cut crystal in the 1850s.
After Thomas Webb's death in 1865, the company was passed on to his son, Thomas Wilkes Webb, who continued to lead the company to greater heights. The company's intricate cameo glassware won the Grand Prix at the Paris International Exhibitions of 1878 and 1889. Thomas Wilkes Webb was also made a Chevalier of the Legion of Honour, one of France's highest decorations.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Thomas Webb & Sons continued to produce a wide range of glassware, including engraved glass, acid-etched glass, and cut crystal. Their products were highly sought after by collectors and were known for their quality, beauty, and craftsmanship. The company's most famous design was the "Queen's Burmese" line, which was a type of glassware popularized by Queen Victoria.
In 1920, Thomas Webb & Sons was incorporated into Webb's Crystal Glass Company, and in 1964, it was bought by Crown House Ltd. The company merged Webb's with Dema Glass Ltd, another of its subsidiaries in 1971. In 1987, Webb's was acquired by the Coloroll Group PLC, who also took control of Edinburgh Crystal.
However, in 1990, production of glassware finally ceased at Dennis Hall, and the works were moved to Edinburgh Crystal. Although the Thomas Webb & Sons name is no longer used, their glassware is still highly prized by collectors and enthusiasts today.
Thomas Willson / Wilson
Thomas Wilson is recorded as a furniture broker and appraiser at 68 Great Queen Street between 1821-29, and is probably the same Thomas Wilson recorded as an auctioneer at 28 Great Queen Street 1799-1825. From 1830-1837 the business was continued by his widow Mary and his Son Matthew using the stamp 'M.Willson' and after 1838 Matthew is listed alone at the Great Queen Street address. It was commonly believed that Thomas Willson was solely a dealer in second-hand furniture who used his stamp as a means of identification. It has, for example, been found on pieces of late 18th century date or stamped by other firm's such as that of Gillows. The rare and seldom seen paper label used by the firm States that he was a cabinet-maker as well as a broker. The label is illustrated in C. Gilbert, Pictorial Dictionary of Marked London Furniture 1730-1840
Tiffany & Co Wallets and Purses
The Tiffany & Co wallet collection features a variety of styles, including zip-around wallets, bi-fold wallets, and cardholders. These wallets are made from high-quality leather and come in a range of colours, including classic black, brown, and navy, as well as brighter hues like pink, red, and Tiffany Blue.
The brand's purse collection includes a range of styles, from small leather purses perfect for a night out, to larger totes that are ideal for everyday use. They purses are made from premium leather and come in a range of colours and designs that are both timeless and modern.
Each Tiffany & Co wallet and purse is crafted with the brand's signature attention to detail, featuring beautiful finishes and sophisticated hardware that make a statement.
Tiffany & Co. (united States)
Tiffany & Co. is a well-known American luxury jewellery and silverware company that was founded in 1837 by Charles Lewis Tiffany and John B. Young in New York City. While it is primarily known for its exquisite diamond jewellery and engagement rings, Tiffany & Co. also produces a wide range of silverware, including flatware, hollowware, and giftware.
The company's silverware is crafted from high-quality sterling silver and is known for its timeless design and superior craftsmanship. Tiffany & Co. has a long history of collaborating with renowned designers to create unique and elegant silverware collections. Some of the most famous collections include the "Chrysanthemum" collection designed by Charles T. Grosjean, the "Vine" collection by Paulding Farnham, and the "English King" collection by William Hood.
In addition to its silverware collections, Tiffany & Co. also produces a range of silver home accessories, including picture frames, candlesticks, and vases. The company operates its own manufacturing facilities in Rhode Island, where its skilled artisans use traditional techniques to create each piece by hand.
Tiffany & Co. operates its own retail stores around the world, as well as an online store where customers can purchase its silverware and other luxury products. The company also offers a range of services, including personalization, engraving, and repair services.
Tiffany & Co. Clocks and Watches
Tiffany & Co. is a luxury brand that has been synonymous with style, sophistication, and elegance for over 180 years. In addition to their renowned jewellery and accessories collections, the brand also offers a range of clocks and watches that are crafted with the same level of attention to detail and craftsmanship.
Tiffany & Co. clocks are available in a range of styles, from classic mantel clocks to modern desk clocks. The brand's clock collection features exquisite finishes and beautiful designs.
The Tiffany & Co. watch collection includes a range of styles for both men and women, from classic and elegant to modern and sporty. Each watch is crafted with precision and attention to detail. The brand's watch collection features both quartz and mechanical movements, and many styles are available with a variety of strap options, including leather, metal, and fabric.
Tiffany & Co. Jewellery
Tiffany & Co. is an American luxury brand that was founded in 1837 by Charles Lewis Tiffany and John B. Young in New York City. Initially, the company focused on stationary and fine goods, but over time it became synonymous with luxury jewellery and accessories.
One of the key moments in the history of Tiffany & Co. was the introduction of the company's signature blue box in 1837. The iconic packaging has become a symbol of the brand's luxury and exclusivity and is instantly recognizable around the world.
Over the years, Tiffany & Co. has become known for its exquisite jewellery collections, which are crafted with the highest level of precision and attention to detail. The brand's jewellery range includes engagement rings, wedding bands, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and charms, as well as a range of men's jewellery.
Tiffany & Co. is also known for its use of high-quality materials, including platinum, gold, and sterling silver, as well as precious and semi-precious gemstones. The brand is particularly well-known for its diamonds, which are sourced from ethical and responsible suppliers.
The brand has collaborated with a range of designers and artists over the years, including Elsa Peretti, Paloma Picasso, and Jean Schlumberger, to create unique and innovative jewellery designs that are both timeless and modern.
Tiffany & Co. Perfume, Scent Bottles
Tiffany & Co. is a luxury brand that has been known for its exquisite jewelry and accessories for over 180 years. In recent years, the brand has also expanded into the world of fragrance, offering a range of perfumes, scent bottles, and atomizers.
The Tiffany & Co. perfume line features several fragrances for women, including the signature Tiffany & Co. Eau de Parfum, which features notes of iris, musk, and patchouli. Other popular fragrances in the line include Tiffany Sheer Eau de Toilette, Tiffany Intense Eau de Parfum, and Tiffany & Love Eau de Toilette for Him and for Her.
The brand also offers a range of scent bottles and atomizers to complement their perfumes. These elegant and sophisticated bottles are made with the same attention to detail and craftsmanship as their jewellery and feature designs inspired by their iconic collections.
View further examples of Tiffany & Co. Perfume, Scent Bottles
Tiffany & Co. Silverware
Tiffany & Co. is a well-known American luxury jewellery and silverware company that was founded in 1837 by Charles Lewis Tiffany and John B. Young in New York City. While it is primarily known for its exquisite diamond jewellery and engagement rings, Tiffany & Co. also produces a wide range of silverware, including flatware, hollowware, and giftware.
The company's silverware is crafted from high-quality sterling silver and is known for its timeless design and superior craftsmanship. Tiffany & Co. has a long history of collaborating with renowned designers to create unique and elegant silverware collections. Some of the most famous collections include the "Chrysanthemum" collection designed by Charles T. Grosjean, the "Vine" collection by Paulding Farnham, and the "English King" collection by William Hood.
In addition to its silverware collections, Tiffany & Co. also produces a range of silver home accessories, including picture frames, candlesticks, and vases. The company operates its own manufacturing facilities in Rhode Island, where its skilled artisans use traditional techniques to create each piece by hand.
Tiffany & Co. operates its own retail stores around the world, as well as an online store where customers can purchase its silverware and other luxury products. The company also offers a range of services, including personalization, engraving, and repair services.
Tiffany & Co. Sunglasses
Tiffany & Co., the luxury American jewellery and accessories brand, began producing sunglasses in the 1990s. The company's first collection of sunglasses was introduced in 1993 and was well received by fashion-conscious consumers.
Tiffany's sunglasses are known for their classic and timeless designs, as well as the use of high-quality materials. The frames are often made of Italian acetate, a durable and lightweight material that is also used in many high-end eyewear brands. The lenses are made of high-quality materials such as polarized glass, which provides exceptional clarity and protection against glare.
One of the most iconic Tiffany & Co. sunglass designs is the "Key" collection. These sunglasses feature a key-shaped metal decoration on the temples, which is inspired by Tiffany's signature key design that dates back to the 19th century. The Key collection also features a range of colors and finishes, including classic tortoiseshell, bold red, and sleek black. Other ranges include the "Hearts" collection and "Signature" collection.
In addition to the Key collection, Tiffany & Co. has released a variety of other sunglasses collections over the years, including the Infinity, Atlas, Hearts, Signature and Bow collections. These collections feature elegant and sophisticated designs that are intended to complement the brand's iconic jewellery and accessories.
Tiffany & Co., Fountain / Ballpoint Pens
Tiffany & Co. is a renowned luxury jewelry and accessories brand that was founded in 1837 in New York City. While the brand is best known for its jewelry, it has also offered a range of other luxury items over the years, including fountain and ballpoint pens.
The history of Tiffany-branded fountain and ballpoint pens dates back to the mid-20th century. In the 1950s, Tiffany began offering a line of pens that were made in collaboration with a number of well-known pen manufacturers, including Sheaffer and Montblanc. These early pens were typically made from high-quality materials, such as sterling silver and gold, and were often embellished with Tiffany's signature blue color.
One of Tiffany's most famous pen designs is the "Atlas" collection, which was introduced in the 1990s. These pens are named after the Atlas clock that stands outside Tiffany's flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. The pens feature a distinctive, column-like design with a band of Roman numerals around the middle, reminiscent of the Atlas clock.
In recent years, Tiffany has continued to offer a range of high-end pens, including limited edition models that are highly coveted by collectors. In addition to fountain and ballpoint pens, Tiffany also offers a range of other writing accessories, including pen cases and ink refills.
View further examples of Tiffany & Co., Fountain / Ballpoint Pens
Timepiece
In today's usage, the word "clock" is the name given to any instrument used for measuring time, but the word clock is derived from the Celtic word meaning "bell", and traditionally a clock without a bell or chime was known as a timepiece.
Timo Sarpaneva
Timo Sarpaneva was a Finnish designer, sculptor, and educator best known in the art world for innovative work in glass, which often merged attributes of display art objects with utilitarian designations. While glass remained his most commonly addressed medium, he worked with metal, wood, textiles, and porcelain.
Sarpaneva was born in Helsinki, Finland, in 1926. He studied at the Finnish Academy of Fine Arts from 1945 to 1948, and then at the Taideteollinen Oppilaitos (now Aalto University School of Arts, Design and Architecture) from 1948 to 1951. In 1951, he was hired by the Iittala glassworks, where he worked for the rest of his career.
Sarpaneva was a prolific designer of glass art, both sculpture and functional objects. He pioneered many new methods in glass making, together with the glassblowers of Iittala glassworks. Among the new methods developed was the wet-stick method where spherical spaces within glass are created not by blowing, but by protruding a wet stick into the glass mass. The contact with the hot mass causes the water to evaporate whereupon the vapor blows a cavity into the glass.
Sarpaneva's glass designs are characterized by their bold colors, organic shapes, and textured surfaces. He often used traditional Finnish motifs in his work, such as the pine tree and the birch leaf. His designs were also influenced by the work of other artists, such as Pablo Picasso and Jean Arp.
In addition to his work in glass, Sarpaneva also designed furniture, textiles, and jewellery. He was also a talented painter and sculptor. His work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, and he has received numerous awards, including the Pro Finlandia Medal of the Order of the Lion of Finland and the Lunning Prize.
Sarpaneva died in Helsinki in 2006 and is considered one of the most important Finnish designers of the 20th century. His work continues to be admired by collectors and designers around the world.
Timothy T. Jones & Son
Timothy Tillotson Jones (1819-1897), was a goldsmith and jeweller born in Islington, London, where his father was also a jeweller. He emigrated to New South Wales in the mid-1850s with his wife Bathsheba and young family and established a business in George Street, Sydney, which in due course became T.T. Jones & Sons, watch and clockmakers. The firsm became known for manufacture of Masonic jewels and regalia, silver plate is manufactured, as well as a gold and silversmith, watchmaker, and manufacturing jeweller.
Tin Glaze
A ceramic glaze associated with lustre ware, maiolica, faience and Delftware. After an initial firing, the pottery was dippeed into the glaze, composed of oxides of lead and tin, which produce a porous white opaque but glossy surface. The pieces were then decorated again and fired which had the effect of fusing the colours into the glaze.
Tin Glazed
Tin glazing is a technique used to decorate earthenware, to produce maiolica, faience and delftware. Once the pottery has been fired, it is dipped into a white opaque glaze of oxides of tin and lead which produces a porous white surface, the background for the brightly painted decoration. The surface is then decorated with enamel colours which are absorbed by the glaze, and then fired again, resulting in the decoration fusing into the surface of the object.
Tipp & Co.
Tipp & Co. was a German toy company founded in 1912 by Miss Tipp and Mr. Carstens. The company was originally based in Fürth, but later moved to Nuremberg, the centre of the German toy industry. In 1919, Philip Ullmann became the exclusive proprietor of the company.
Tipp & Co. produced a wide range of tinplate toys, including cars, trucks, airplanes, trains, and boats. The company's toys were known for their high quality and realism. In the 1930s, Tipp & Co. began producing military toys, which were in high demand during the Nazi era.
Three of the most notable Tipp & Co. toys were the Führerwagen Mercedes, a clockwork toy car produced in 1937 and features a depiction of Adolf Hitler in the driver's seat; the London Bus, produced in the 1930s and features authentic London advertising and the Mercedes-Benz 770, a highly detailed replica clockwork toy car that was produced in the 1930s, considered to be one of the finest Tipp & Co. toys ever produced.
In 1933, Philip Ullmann was forced to flee Germany due to Nazi persecution. He settled in England, where he founded Mettoy, which later produced Corgi Toys. Tipp & Co. was seized by the German government during World War II, and production was halted. After the war, Tipp & Co. was re-established in Nuremberg. However, the company never regained its former prominence. It ceased production in 1971.
Tipp & Co. toys are still highly sought-after by collectors today. The company's military toys are particularly prized, as they are a rare and valuable reminder of a dark period in German history.
Titian Studioware
Titian Studioware was a ceramic company that operated in New Zealand from 1957 to 1967. The company was founded by two brothers, Len and George Castle, in Auckland. They were joined by two other brothers, James and Harry, soon after.
Cameron and Dorothy Brown established a small pottery in Waitakere, West Auckland in 1951. At first called Sherwood Pottery, and then, from around 1957, Titian Studio, the Browns created a number of decorative vases and Toby jugs.
They moved the pottery to Henderson in 1958 and began experimenting with a wide range of decorative glazes for their wares. After yet another move in 1965, this time to Takanini, the company was taken over by Crown Lynn in 1967 and the Browns set up another pottery, Orzel Industries in 1972.
Tobacco Box
Tobacco was introduced into England in the 16th century, but it wasn't until the 1660s that it became available for popular use. Tobacco boxes were made from the seventeenth century in most metals and shapes, the main feature being a close-fitting lid and smooth outlines so that it did not tear the pocket. English tobacco boxes tended to be plain with perhaps a monogram or coat of arms, but Continental boxes were often elaborately adorned with masculine designs of sporting, military or rustic themes. Their use went into some decline when tobacco manufacturers supplied their wares in tins and many smokers preferred a leather tobacco-pouch.
Tobacco Jars
Unlike tobacco boxes, which were portable, tobacco jars were designed to sit on a shelf or in a cupboard and was therefore included more decoration and a greater variety of shapes than the tobacco box. They were mostly made of ceramic, glass or silver although earlier examples are of lead or pewter. Some had an interior weight to keep the tobacco compressed. Early seventeenth-century examples are cylindrical, often with a domed lid with a finial. Eighteenth-century tobacco jars were often in wood, especially lignum vitae, elegantly shaped, frequently with a liner of pottery or tin. Many of the well-known ceramics factories made tobacco jars. They were a popular item for Royal Doulton, and Wedgwood made very attractive examples in black basalt and blue jasper.
Tobia Scarpa
Tobia Scarpa was born in Venice, Italy in 1935. He is the son of the renowned architect Carlo Scarpa. Tobia studied architecture at the Università Iuav di Venezia, graduating in 1957.
After graduating, Tobia worked as a glass designer at the Murano glassworks of Venini. In 1960, he co-founded the design studio Scarpa with his wife, Afra Bianchin Scarpa. The studio quickly became one of the most respected design firms in Italy, and their work was exhibited in major museums around the world.
Tobia Scarpa's furniture designs are characterized by their simple lines, functional forms, and use of high-quality materials. He was particularly interested in the use of bent plywood, which he used to create a number of iconic chairs, such as the Bastiano (1960) and the Soriana (1970). He also designed a number of lighting fixtures, including the Papillon (1973) and the Foglio (1982). His lighting designs are known for their elegant forms and use of innovative materials, such as halogen bulbs.
A prolific designer, Tobia Scarpa worked in a wide range of media. He designed furniture, lighting, glassware, and even carpets. His work is characterized by its timeless elegance and functional beauty. He is considered one of the most important designers of the 20th century, and his work continues to be admired by designers and collectors around the world. He received numerous awards for his work, including the Compasso d'Oro award in 1970. He was also a member of the Accademia di Brera in Milan.
Tobia Scarpa died in 2016 at the age of 80.
Toby Jugs / Character Mugs
Toby jugs are earthenware jugs depicting the full figure of a person, usually a man, in a three-cornered hat holding a jug, of beer and a pipe or glass. They were first made in the 1760s by Wood family of potters in Staffordshire and the design was copied by other potters in the area, and later elsewhere. They were said to be inspired by song and etching of Sir Toby Phillpot, a legendary 18th century Yorkshire drinker. The style became popularily used to depict other figures including Martha Gunn (the celebrated Brighton bathing woman), The Thin Man, The Drunken Parson, Prince Hal, The Night Watchman and many others. An enormously popular genre, toby jugs have continued to be made, sometimes in porcelain, often in miniature form. Many of the modem versions have been deliberately crazed to appear old. Character jugs have been produced by Royal Doulton since the 1930s: Ronald Reagan appeared in 1984, Sir Winston Churchill in 1940, and John Barleycorn, idiot yokel, was produced from 1934 to 1960. For purists, a jug depicting head-and-shoulders only a 'character mug'.
Toilet Mirror
A small, framed mirror on a stand or supporting brackets, usually placed on a chest of drawers or toilet table, as a looking glass. There are many variants the frames may be square, rectangular, half round, oval or shield shaped. The mirror brackets usually stood on a platform base, sometimes with a marble top, and often with small drawers for jewellery beneath. The angle of the mirror could be adjusted either by tightening small wooden knobs on the brackets or else by brass thumbscrews. The supporting brackets during the Georgian and early Victorian periods were often turned posts, but during the mid-19th century Rococo revival they could be elaborately scrolled and carved. Collectors will also come across many small round mirrors, often framed in brass on an adjustable stand, which were generally used as shaving mirrors.
Toleware
Toleware is painted and varnish-coated tin kitchen ware, made in imitation of the imported Chinese lacquer wares that were popular in the 18th century Britain, but difficult to obtain. The varnishing process was developed in the 18th century by Thomas Allgood, from the coal mining area of Pontypool in South Wales and it prevented the objects from rusting.
The varnish was created with asphalt, a by-product of the coal that was mined locally, mixed with shellac, and the mixture was applied to the thinly-rolled iron plate objects. This varnish was applied in several layers, each being fired at a high temperature, which rendered the finished object extremely durable.
The process was known as Japanning because it resembled the lacquer on Japanese trays.
The Pontypool factory remained in operation until 1820, but a rival factory in nearby Usk owned by two of Allgood’s grandsons, continued until the mid-19th century. Another member of the family founded a japanning factory in Birmingham, which became the main centre of the industry in Britain during the 19th century.
The process spread to Europe and the United States, where objects are still manufactured in the toleware style using modern processes and finishes.
Tom Dixon
Tom Dixon was born on 21 May 1959 in Sfax, Tunisia to a French/Latvian mother and an English father. He is a self-taught British designer, best known as the Creative Director of the eponymous brand 'Tom Dixon', which specializes in the design of lighting, furniture and accessories. Dixon's work is known for its bold and innovative use of materials and forms, as well as its eclectic mix of influences from around the world.
He moved to England at the age of four and spent his school years in London. He dropped out of Chelsea School of Art to play bass in the band Funkapolitan, before teaching himself welding and going on to produce furniture. Dixon's early designs were often made from salvaged materials and were characterized by their raw and industrial aesthetic. He quickly gained a reputation for his bold and original work, and in 1989 he was commissioned by the Italian furniture company Cappellini to design the iconic 'S' chair. The chair, made from a single sheet of folded metal, was an instant success and helped to establish Dixon as one of the leading designers of his generation.
In 1998, Dixon was appointed Creative Director of the British furniture chain Habitat. He spent the next ten years transforming the brand, introducing a new range of innovative and stylish products. He also continued to design his own products, which were sold through his own company, Tom Dixon. In 2002, he launched his own flagship store in London's Shoreditch district. The store, which features a mix of Dixon's own designs and products from other designers, quickly became a popular destination for design enthusiasts from all over the world.
Dixon's work has been exhibited in museums and galleries around the world, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. He has also received numerous awards for his work, including the OBE in 2001 and the Designer of the Year award at Maison & Objet in 2014.
Tony Rafty
Tony Rafty (Anthony Raftopoulos) was born in Sydney in 1915. A painter, cartoonist and caricaturist, he is mostly self taught, although he did study for 2 years at East Sydney technical College. He joined the staff of the Sun-Herald newspapers in 1940 as political and sports cartoonist. He enlisted in the AIF in 1941 and was later war artist in New Guinea. After World War II he went to New Guinea as artist correspondent for Associated Newspapers.
He was the first Australian to draw an Australian comic book in 1948, and after freelancing from 1957 to 1962. He rejoined the Sun Herald group in 1962 as a cartoonist, illustrator and sporting cartoonist and was president of the Black and White Artists' Club in 1975, and also held presidencies of the Sydney Journalists' Club and the War Correspondents' Association.
He was awarded an Order of Australia (OAM) 1990 and made a life member of the Black and White Artists' Club 1991. He provided the illustration for a number of books in the 1970s and designed the <Australian Personalities of Sport</> series of stamps for Australia Post in 1981.<p>
Tony White
Tony White was born in 1942 in Sydney, and attended Saturday art classes at the National Art School in Sydney when still a child. He later trained in architecture, graduating from Sydney University in 1965, and practised as an architect for five years in both Sydney and Melbourne. During this time he became interested in jewellery.
In 1971 he commenced working full-time as a jeweller despite having no training in that field, and began exhibiting his work with Philip Bacon Galleries in Brisbane in 1974. He travelled extensively in Africa, Asia, Europe and America, collecting rare stones for his exquisite and individual works.
Tony White created one-of-a-kind jewellery for over four decades. His work is sculptural and wearable, combining the beauty of the past with timeless style inspired by nature and his explorations around the world. He chose to exhibit his work in fine art galleries and created pieces for celebrity clients. His work is also held in major collections in Australia and overseas.
Tony White passed away in 2020 and his personal collection of jewellery was sold by Bonhams the same year.
Tooled
Decoration of a leather surface, usually by stamping the surface with a heated punch or wheel containing foliate or geometric designs. In blind tooling the surface of the punch or wheel is in direct contact with the leather, while in gold tooling, a ribbon of gold leaf is placed between the punch or wheel and the leather, and once they have been applied, the excess gold is brushed off, leaving only the design.
Torbjorn Afdal
Norwegian mid-century furniture designer Torbjørn Afdal (1917 - 1999) was born in Voss, Norway, and studied at the State Crafts and Art Industry School in Oslo. After graduating in 1946, he was hired by Bruksbo Tegnekontor, a design office that produced furniture for some of Norway's leading manufacturers. Afdal quickly rose through the ranks at Bruksbo, and by the early 1950s, he was one of the company's top designers.
Afdal's designs were heavily influenced by Danish furniture design, and he is often mistaken for a Danish designer. However, he developed his own unique style, characterized by its elegance, simplicity, and functionality.
Some of Afdal's most famous designs include the Broadway armchair (1958), the Form chair (1960), and the Krobo multipurpose bench (1960). His furniture was purchased by Jacqueline Kennedy as the First Lady in the White House and by the Japanese Emperor.
In addition to his work for Bruksbo, Afdal also designed furniture for other Norwegian manufacturers, such as Nesjestranda and Mellemstrand Trevareindustri. He also designed office furniture for the Norwegian government, including the chairs for the Stortinget (Norwegian Parliament).
Afdal's work was highly respected during his lifetime, and he received numerous awards for his designs. He was also a member of the Norwegian Society of Arts and Crafts and the Norwegian Design Council.
Afdal died in 1999 at the age of 81. His work continues to be popular today, and some of his designs remain in production by Norwegian manufacturers.
Torchere
Sometimes also referred to as a 'candlestand', a torchere is a tall narrow table with a circular top with a long central stem, standing on a tripod base, used to stand candlesticks or, in the later part of the 19th century, oil lamps. The tops are sometimes fitted with a gallery. Similar to wine tables or tea-kettle stands, they differ in height: tables are rarely more than 80 cm in height whereas candlestands are usually some 150 cm or more high.
Torquay Potteries
Torquay pottery is a generic term used to describe the various potteries that were established in the Torquay area of Devon, England, from around 1860 until the late 20th century. These potteries used local sources of red Devon clay to produce a wide range of wares, including art pottery, souvenir pottery, and household pottery.
The first Torquay pottery was the Watcombe Terra Cotta Clay Company, which was established in 1875 by G. J. Allen. This pottery was known for its production of art pottery, and its wares were often decorated with floral motifs. Other early Torquay potteries included the Longpark Pottery, the Torquay Terra-Cotta Company, and the St. Marychurch Pottery.
In the early 20th century, Torquay became increasingly popular as a tourist destination. Many potteries began producing souvenir wares, such as plates, jugs, and mugs, that were decorated with scenes of Torquay and the surrounding area. These wares were often decorated with mottoes or sayings in the local Devon dialect.
The popularity of Torquay pottery continued into the mid-20th century. However, the industry began to decline in the late 20th century, as competition from mass-produced pottery increased. The last Torquay pottery, the Royal Torquay Pottery, closed in 1982.
Tortoiseshell
Tortoiseshell is a translucent material that comes from the horny carapace of a certain types of turtles, including the hawksbill turtle. It is often therefore mounted on a colour underground - often red - or inlaid with gold or silver thread, as seen in Boulle furniture.
The texture and colour nuances of the material are extremely important. Heated tortoiseshell can easily be formed into various shapes. Like other natural materials, tortoiseshell becomes more beautiful with use. In a time before plastic, tortoiseshell was widely used for small objects such as combs and powder compacts.
In 1973, the trade of tortoiseshell worldwide was banned under CITES (The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species). Prior to importing or exporting items containing tortoiseshell a CITES permit must be obtained. Tortoiseshell items cannot be traded on Ebay.
"Faux tortoiseshell", another case of man initiating nature, is made from old-style plastics such as celluloid and cellulos and is coloured with red, yellow and brown spots to imitate the genuine article. It is commonly used in glasses frames, musical instruments and costume jewellery.
Toshiyuki Kita
Toshiyuki Kita was born in Osaka, Japan in 1942. He studied industrial design at Naniwa College, Osaka, and graduated in 1964. After graduating, In 1969, Kita began working as a freelance designer for several Japanese and Italian companies, including Sharp, Tribu, Bernini, Interflex and . Cassina.. He quickly established himself as one of Japan's leading furniture designers. His work is characterized by its clean lines, simple forms, and use of natural materials.
Kita's work has been exhibited in galleries and museums all over the world. He has also won numerous awards for his work, including the Good Design Award from the Japan Industrial Design Promotion Organization. In addition to his work as a furniture designer, Kita is also a teacher and lecturer. He has taught furniture design at the Osaka University of Arts and at the Tama Art University. He has also given lectures at universities and museums all over the world. One of Kita's most famous designs is the Wink chair, which was first produced in 1980. The Wink chair is a reclining armchair that is made of steel and leather. The chair is known for its unique design, which allows the user to adjust the seat and backrest to create a comfortable and supportive position.
Toshiyuki Kita is one of the most important furniture designers working today. His work is characterized by its simplicity, elegance, and functionality. He is a true master of his craft, and his furniture will be admired for years to come.
Towel Rack
As the name implies, a stand for drying towels or hanging clothes, usually found in the bedroom. It consists of a pair of upright supports, separated by maybe five or more rods.
Trans Australia Airlines (taa)
Trans Australia Airlines (TAA) was an Australian domestic airline that operated from 1946 to 1992. It was established by the Australian government in 1945 to break the monopoly of Australian National Airways (ANA) on domestic air travel. TAA quickly became the dominant airline in Australia, and it played a major role in the development of the country's aviation industry.
TAA introduced a number of innovations in Australian aviation, including the first jet airliner, the first wide-body airliner, and the first business class service. It also supported the Flying Doctor Service of Australia, providing aircraft, pilots, and engineers to ensure that medical care was available to people in remote areas.
In 1986, TAA was renamed Australian Airlines. It continued to operate as a separate airline until 1992, when it merged with Qantas.
Transfer Printed / Decorated Transferware
Transfer printing is method of decorating ceramics, reducing the cost of decoration when compared to employing artists to paint each piece. A print was taken on transfer-paper from an engraved copperplate, covered in ink prepared with metallic oxides, and the image on the paper was then applied to the biscuit-fired ceramic body. The print was fixed by heating the object in an oven, and then glazed, sealing the picture. Early transfer prints were blue and white, as cobalt was the only colour to stand firing without blurring. Early in the 19th century advances in the composition of the transfer paper resulted in better definition and detail, and enabled engravers to combine line-engraving with stipple.
View further examples of Transfer Printed / Decorated Transferware
Travelling Sets
Trax Models
Established in 1980 by John Eassie, Trax Models began making 1:43 scale diecast cars in 1986, which were initially distributed to local model train retailers. The company was later sold to Frank Tregellas and Robert Hill, formerly of Matchbox Toys Australia and Matchbox Collectibles respectively, but is now a subsidiary of Top Gear
Trax have their cars made in China and specialise in GM, Ford, and Chrysler models from the 1950s to the 1970s in the 1:43 scale The "Trax Australian Motoring History" series, come in a perspex display case with a removable back story card. Their "Select Series" offers limited edition resin models of exclusive Australian car models in the same scale, while the "Superscale" line provides larger 1:24 scale models with functional doors, bonnets, and boot lids, as well as working steering systems and window winders. The "Trux Series" is a diecast bus and truck line in 1:76 scale, featuring models from Top Gear and Exclusive First Editions in Great Britain.
All Trax Models are produced in limited runs and many are serially numbered, primarily in the Legends Series of famous Australian racers and their vehicles, which include models of aircraft. A new catalogue is released every two months, and a book featuring all previous castings is updated every three years. Trax also offers a collector membership club with a quarterly publication and a special member edition. Trax Models are highly sought after by model car collectors worldwide.
Treen
Treen is a word from Old English meaning "wooden". It is now used as a collective term for small carved or turned timber objects, that were made for household use. The term is also applied to wooden articles that do not fit any other classification. The word is not used to describe objects that are mainly ornamental, nor to furniture.
Before the late 17th century when pewter, silver and ceramic tableware began to come into use for the middle and lower classes, wood was the default material for most dining utensils, from plates and bowls to spoons, and the use of wood extended to other kitchen and household equipment.
Almost all treen is anonymously made - there are no makers names or marks. The objects were made by the local cabinetmakers and wood turners.
Over the years many treen objects have acquired a satisfying patina, through their constant handling and use. Earlier kitchen tools were waxed rather than polished, and today will be rough, stained, chipped, and scorched, revealing a lot of use in their previous lives.
The variety of objects made for general household use is enormous and includes pepper-mills, cigarette boxes, flower troughs, napkin rings, punch bowls lined with metal, platters, porringers, ladles, salad servers, bowls, puzzle money boxes, egg cups, spice boxes, lemon squeezers, pails, glove stretchers, potato mashers, spoons, mouse-traps, colanders, back scratchers, and nutcrackers.
Basic utlilitarian items such as such as the above, were usually waxed rather than polished and bear the hallmarks of their use being rough, stained, chipped and scorched.
The more decorative treen articles for the drawing room or bedroom were polished, lacquered, painted, or inlaid with coloured woods, ivory, mother-of-pearl, or coloured glass.
Amongst the more unusual items are miniature letter boxes for country houses, decoy ducks, body massagers and silk winders.
Trench Art
Trench Art is the name given to objects manufactured by both soldiers and civilians from shell casings, bullets, shrapnel and miscellaneous battlefield debris, and is predominantly associated with World War I (1914 – 18).
The most common material used for trench art are brass shell casings, which, once decorated, can be utilised as vases. Other metal items include cigarette cases, lighters, ashtrays, and cast model aeroplanes.
Often the items will bear an inscription such as the name of a French village or theatre of war and engraved decoration or embossing.
Another softer form of trench art is embroidered and painted textiles. Also produced by civilians and soldiers (needlework was considered good therapy for those convalescing in nursing homes), these textiles range from silk postcards to large pictures and wall hangings, often featuring regimental crests.
Trencher
Originally a trencher was a wooden tray or stale piece of bread used as a plate, on which the food was placed before being eaten. A bowl of salt was placed near the trencher, and this became known as the trencher salt. Nowadays the word "trencher" is used to describe a type of salt bowl of flat open shape, usually without feet..
Trestle Table
The medieval table was usually a loose board, placed on removeable folding supports called trestles. In the 16th century, trestles fixed to the top of the table were introduced at each end of the frame, each resting on a broad base or foot, often connected and supported by one or two stretchers.
Tri-Ang Toys
Tri-ang Toys has a long history of making toys that can be traced back to the Lines family who set up a toy making business in 1850. The business started with wooden toys including life-size horses to display saddlery goods.
In 1876, the business expanded and began making all kinds of playthings for the children of wealthy London upper and middle classes. The company continued to expand and made many acquisitions, absorbing other London toy makers. In 1924, Tri-ang Toys was established and adopted its world-famous trademark, the red triangle design representing the three Lines brothers.
The company offered sturdy, well-built toys, constructed with a combination of wood and metal. They produced a series of delightful Tri-ang road vehicles called the Dolls Motor Vans with wooden wheels and tinplate radiators. Tri-ang also made pressed steel lorries, including a van, petrol tanker, breakdown wagon, timber lorry, milk lorry, and Carter Paterson box van. The company doubled its workforce to around 1,000 by the early 1930s.
In 1931, Lines Brothers Ltd bought Hamleys, London's famous toy retailer.
During World War II, the Merton factory was requisitioned by the Ministry of Defence, and the company produced machine guns, shell cases, and magazines for Spitfire and Hurricane fighter planes. When toy production resumed after the war, Tri-ang continued to produce pressed steel lorries, and by the 1950s, they updated their range with new, more modern-looking forward-cab trucks.
By the mid 1960s Tri-ang owned over forty different business organisations, many of which (including Meccano and Hornby) had been taken over as part of the expansion of its worldwide operation.
Despite being Britain’s largest toy manufacturer, Tri-ang began to run into problems in 1971 following a sudden drop in demand for its products in the UK and Lines Bros and Tri-ang and its many other famous subsidiary companies eventually succumbed to the liquidators.
Tripod Base
A type of base used on small tables in the 18th and 19th century, consisting of either a stem to a three legged pillar, or three legs attached to the top. The former was derived from the candle stand, which has a small top and a long stem, terminating in the three legged pillar.
In the 19th century this type of base was popular on wine and occasional tables, and its use extended into larger centre, breakfast and drum tables.
Trivets
Originally a trivet was a three-legged stand placed in front of fire on which to put pots and utensils, in use from the seventeenth century. They were usually made of wrought iron, and later of brass. However, the use of the word has been extended to describe any type of stand to place a hot object on, such as a teapot, iron or jug to prevent the heat from the object reaching the surface underneath. They may be made from ceramic, silver, wood or brass.
Trivets
Originally a trivet was a three-legged stand placed in front of fire on which to put pots and utensils, in use from the seventeenth century. They were usually made of wrought iron, and later of brass. However, the use of the word has been extended to include any type of stand to place a hot object on, such as a teapot, iron or jug to prevent the heat reaching the surface underneath. They may be made from ceramic, silver, wood or brass.
Troika Pottery
Troika Pottery was an art pottery that operated in Cornwall, England from 1962 to 1983. It was founded by Leslie Illsley, Jan Thompson and Benny Sirota, who took over the Powell and Wells Pottery at Wheal Dream, where Sirota had previously worked as a decorator and driver. "Troika" is from the Russian for a "a set of three", or triumvirate. The pottery was founded on the principle of creating pottery as art, without regard to function. This ran counter to the aims of much of the studio pottery movement at the time, as epitomised by the work of Bernard Leach. Troika's early works were characterized by their bold, geometric designs and their use of unconventional materials, such as plastic and resin.
The pottery soon earned a reputation for its innovative and experimental designs. In 1968, Troika's work was first exhibited at Heals and Liberty in London, and the pottery soon became a popular destination for tourists visiting St Ives. In 1970, the pottery moved to larger premises in Fradgan Place, Newlyn. In the mid-1970s, Troika's popularity began to decline. This was due to a number of factors, including changing public taste, declining tourism, and tensions between the three founders. Benny Sirota left the pottery in 1980, and the business closed in 1983. Despite its relatively short lifespan, Troika Pottery left a lasting legacy. The pottery's bold and experimental designs helped to redefine the boundaries of studio pottery, and its work is now highly sought-after by collectors.
Trompe L'oeil
Literally translated from the French, trompe l'oeil means "to deceive or trick the eye" and describes works whose subjects are presented so realistically that the viewer of the artwork or object believe they are looking at a three-dimensional object.
Trumeau
A trumeau mirror is usually rectangular in shape, with a decorative painted panel above the mirror. Most antique trumeau mirrors are highly ornate and often gilded.
They were originally manufactured in France in the 18th century, but became popular agina in the Regency period and in the 1950's.
Trumeau mirrors were originally intended to hang on a wall between windows, providing a decorative element and bringing more light to the room.
Tsavorite
Tsavorite is a green coloured garnet, first discovered by a British geologist, Dr Campbell R. Bridges in 1961 in Zimbabwe while working for the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority.
Unable to obtain a mining permit, he began prospecting in Tanzania and in 1967 made a second discovery of Tsavorite in northern Tanzania in 1967. Dr Bridges commenced mining the deposit, but the mine was nationalised by the government, so Dr Bridges moved to Kenya, where he made a third discovery of the mineral at the end of 1970.
Tiffany & Co. began promoting the then unnamed mineral in 1973 in association with Dr. Campbell, and it was agreed it should be named Tsavorite, after the Tsavo National Park in Kenya, near to where it was mined.
Dr Bridges died aged 71 in 2009 on his property in Tsavo National Park, Kenya, when he and his son were attacked by a mob in a dispute over mining rights.
Tsuba
The tsuba is a Japanese sword-guard. It is a small, flat, plate, usually circular or oval, although square, lozenge, and irregular shapes are known. The plate is pierced by an elongated slit, with sometimes a hole at each side for sword knife and sword needle.
Tub Chair
A low easy chair, usually with a rounded back, padded on top and supported by spindles, which forms the arm rest. The term is also applied to many small comfortable upholstered lounge chairs.
Tubelined
In tubelined decoration, a thin line of clay is piped on to the surface of the object through a nozzle to define the design outlines, then the glazes are poured into the areas of the object that are created behind the shallow "dams" formed by the tube-lined decoration.
Tubelined decoration was extensively used by Moorcroft Pottery. It was an expensive decorating technique, owing to the many possibilities of error in manufacture.
Tucher & Walther
Tucher & Walther was a German tin toy manufacturer founded in Nuremberg, Bavaria, in 1984. The company was founded by two toy enthusiasts, Georg Tucher and Heinz Walther, who wanted to revive the traditional German tin toy industry.
Tucher & Walther quickly became known for its high-quality tin toy replicas of classic German designs. The company's products were popular with collectors and toy enthusiasts alike. In the 1980s and 1990s, Tucher & Walther was one of the leading manufacturers of tin toys in Germany.
Some of the most popular Tucher & Walther tin toys include steam engines, automobiles, airplanes, military vehicles, buildings, animals, figurines, Tucher & Walther tin toys are known for their durability and accuracy. The company's toys are made from high-quality materials and are hand-painted. Tucher & Walther tin toys are also relatively affordable, making them accessible to a wide range of collectors.
In the early 2000s, Tucher & Walther was acquired by another German toy company, Märklin. Märklin continued to produce Tucher & Walther tin toys until 2013, when the company decided to discontinue the line.
Tucher & Walther tin toys are highly sought-after by collectors. The company's toys are known for their quality, craftsmanship, and historical significance.
Tudric
In 1903 Liberty & Co. released a range of high quality pewter under the name "Tudric". Apart from its interesting Art Nouveau Celtic inspired designs, Tudric pewter differed from other pewter as it had a high silver content. Much of it was designed by Archibald Knox, whose services Liberty & Co. had engaged from 1898 onwards. It was produced for Liberty by William Haseler of Birmingham.
See also: Liberty & Co.
Tumbler
A drinking glass, without a handle, originally with a pointed or rounded bottom so that it could not be put down until empty. From the seventeenth century the glass tumbler had a heavy flat bottom, making it more likely it would not fall over. They were also made in silver, horn and ceramic. The concept of a drinking vessel which could not be placed on a table was not uncommon, as seen in a stirrup cup, the contents of which were drunk from the saddle. The same word is used to describe an acrobat who performs somersaults.
Tunbridge Ware
This is the name given to an exclusively English form of wood mosaic, which was first made by local craftsmen in and around Tunbridge Wells in Kent.
Tunbridge Wells had become a fashionable place to take the waters early in the seventeenth century, and, as most people indulging in this healthy pastime were in effect on holiday in the town, with money to burn, local craftsmen soon began to take advantage and manufacture items made by this process, which is noted for the great variety of woods and colours used.
The most common items made were boxes in various shapes and for various purposes, but the Tunbridge technique was also used to decorate clocks and furniture.
It was in the early part of the nineteenth century that Tunbridge Ware came into its own with the invention in 1820 of the tessellated mosaic.
Thin strips of wood of different colours and grain were glued together and pressed down tightly in blocks. When the glue was dry, the blocks were cut across the strips (like carving a joint or slicing a loaf) to produce thin sheets of patterned wood, which were then applied as veneer to a great variety of objects, such as workboxes, candlesticks, writing boxes, jewel boxes, barometers, trays, and tea caddies.
Where the surface area permitted, the pieces often depicted popular tourist sites while smaller items could include geometric designs, flowers and animals.
As the decades went by, the craftsmen improved their techniques and used a wider range of woods and colourings, so that by the mid-nineteenth century Tunbridge ware had become one of the best-known forms of wood decoration. The scale on which pieces were made increased, and the result is that, while the skill remained an intricate one, a multitude of articles was turned out.
It is said that the young Princess Victoria purchased Tunbridge ware items for family gifts, and three Tunbridge ware manufacturers exhibited their wares at the Geat Exhibtion held at Crystal Palace in 1851.
One of the last firms making Tunbridge ware was Boyce, Brown and Kemp whose craftsmen were still producing articles after the First World War.
Tunstall Potteries
The history of pottery manufacture in the town of Tunstall, England
dates back to the 14th century, when small-scale pottery manufacturing began in
the town. However, it was not until the mid 19th century that large
scale pottery manufacturing began in Tunstall.
The best known pottery company in Tunstall was H & K
Tunstall, originally named Hollinshead & Kirkham Ltd. which was established
in 1870 in Burslem, Staffordshire, England. In 1876 they moved their pottery
works to nearby Tunstall. In 1890 they took over the Unicorn Works pottery in
Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent.
The company was known for its high-quality earthenware and
porcelain, and its designs were often inspired by nature. In the early 1920s,
designer Harold Growcott joined the pottery and designed a range of
hand-painted designs on porcelain. The designs featured an abstract background
painted in two or more colours, on top of which bold fruit or floral designs
were painted.
H & K Tunstall was a successful company and continued to
operate until 1956, when it was incorporated into the Johnson Bros Group.
In addition to H & K Tunstall, there were a number of
other pottery companies in Tunstall, including Woodland Pottery, Unicorn
Pottery, Tunstall Tile & Pottery Company, and Tunstall China. These
companies produced a wide range of pottery, including earthenware, porcelain,
tiles, and figurines. Their designs were often inspired by nature, but they
also produced more traditional designs.
There are no longer any large pottery companies operating in
Tunstall. However, there are a number of small pottery studios and shops in the
town that produce handmade pottery. These studios often use traditional methods
and techniques, and their designs are often inspired by the history of pottery
manufacture in Tunstall.
Tureen
Circular or oval, deep, covered bowl, used from the early 18th century for serving soup, sauce, vegetables or stew. As well as silver, tureens are also made in porcelain, pottery, and silver plate, Sauce tureens are smaller, plainer versions. The name derives from the French "terrine", meaning 'earthen vessel',
Turned Legs
are legs which have been turned on a lathe. In use from the 16th century, turned legs on tables, chairs and cabinets became more frequent until, by the 1830s, the Georgian square or tapered leg was rarely found except in country pieces.
Turning
Any part of a piece of furniture that has been turned and shaped with chisels on a lathe. Turned sections include legs, columns, feet, finials, pedestals, stretchers, spindles etc. There have been many varieties and fashions over the centuries: baluster, melon, barley-sugar, bobbin, cotton-reel, rope-twist, and so on. Split turning implies a turned section that has been cut in half lengthwise and applied to a cabinet front as a false decorative support.
Tuscan Fine China
R H & S L Plant Ltd) were manufacturers of porcelain at the Tuscan Works, Longton under the name Tuscan Fine China from c.1898 – 1966. This area known as "The Potteries", was England’s centre for the production of china. The Plant family already had a long history in producing china and Tuscan specialised in decorative fine bone china tableware that is very fine and light. In 1966 the holding company was acquired by Wedgwood and RH & SL Plant Ltd. was re-named "Royal Tuscan" and continued as a manufacturing unit of the Wedgwood Group
Twilly
A twilly is a long, narrow scarf made of 100% silk. It is typically 31 inches long and 2 inches wide. Twillys are often printed with colorful patterns or designs. They are a versatile accessory that can be worn in many different ways, such as a hair tie, a scarf, bracelet, around the handles of a bag, a headband, a belt, or a necktie. Twillys are often associated with the luxury brand Hermès, which first introduced them in the 1930s. Hermès Twillies are known for their exquisite designs, luxurious silk material, and vibrant patterns. They have become a signature accessory of the brand and are highly sought after by fashion-conscious individuals. However, there are now many different brands that sell twillys.
Twist
A rod of glass in which there is one or several threads or tapes of coloured glass, or bubbles of air embedded, which is then twisted to give an attractive appearance. The technique is mostly associated with the stems of Georgian glasses. The technique was in use from about the 1740s to the 1760s.
Collectors have identified over 150 variations of twist decoration. One of the most common is the air twist which as the name implies, has one or more columns of air embedded within the rod. A colour twist has one or more coloured tapes, usually opaque but sometimes translucent. other common types of twist include cable, corkscrew, enamel, gauze, lace, opaque and thread.
Tyg
A tyg (or tig) is a large English pottery mug with three or more handles dividing the rim into sections for several drinkers. These tall, black-glazed, red-bodied drinking vessels were first produced from the 15th century through the first half of the 17th century, peaking in popularity during the 16th and 17th centuries. Some were made with as many as nine handles. The multiple handles also allow hot drinks to be passed around without pain.
There was a revival of their popularity in the 19th century and tygs were produced by the major ceramics manufacturers of that period, including Royal Doulton, Wemyss, Spode and Winchcombe Pottery.
Typewriter
Whilst a 1714 patent granted to the Englishman Henry Mill appears to be for a typewriter of sorts, it was not until the 19th century that the modern typewriter began to evolve.
This was arguably Frenchman Xavier Progin's 1833 creation which was originally called 'Machine Kryptographique'.
Several typewriters featured in the 1851 Great Exhibition which was held in London's Hyde Park.
However, real success came later in the 1880's with Remington when they mastered the technical problems of production as well as successfully convincing a previously somewhat indifferent public.
For the next hundred years, the typewriter became an indispensable tool for the office, and occasionally for the home. In first world countries it has been completely superceded by the personal computer, but in less wealthy countries its use continues, although at a declining rate.
The major typewriter manufacturers were Adler, Remington, IBM, Imperial Typewriters, Olivetti, Olympia, Royal Typewriter Company, Smith Corona and Underwood.