Month: November 2024
Great Finds: Lost Wax Pendants
These captivating bronze pendants from the Bobo and Lobi communities of Southern Eastern-West Africa tell stories as old as time. Crafted using the ancient art of lost wax casting, each piece is as unique as its maker.
From stylized face masks to crocodiles, turtles, snakes, and even grain stores, these designs carry a rich tradition passed down through generations. While the forms may appear simple at first glance, their bold shapes and stylized motifs reflect deep cultural significance, embodying a vibrant artistic heritage.
The lost wax process itself is an art form. Artisans meticulously craft a figure in wax, coat it in a clay mold, and pour molten metal into the cavity, leaving behind a one-of-a-kind bronze creation. The original wax is consumed in the process—hence the term “lost wax.”
African traditional art, with its bold and expressive designs, continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts. These pendants, often difficult to date precisely, offer an accessible entry point into the world of collectible art—perfect for those who appreciate the blend of cultural history and creative craftsmanship.
The Pledge of Victory: WWII Bakelite Crucifixes
During the Second World War, two types of Bakelite crucifixes were produced and distributed to members of the Allied forces. These items were given during religious services and large masses held across the United Kingdom, particularly in the lead-up to the invasion of Europe in June 1944.
Bearing the simple yet profound motto “The Pledge of Victory” on the reverse, these crucifixes served as a source of spiritual support and unity. Measuring approximately 3.8 cm x 5.4 cm, they were small enough to be easily carried yet sturdy enough to withstand the rigours of wartime.
The crucifixes came in two variations: one plain, and another featuring a circular background. The latter design may have been created for added durability and better grip in the hand, making it a practical choice for soldiers on the move.
These historical relics not only reflect the faith and morale of the time but also serve as poignant reminders of the resilience and hope that carried so many through a period of great uncertainty.
Tins Ain’t What They Used To Be
Nearly everyone has an old tin or two tucked away at home. With Christmas approaching, these tins remind us of a time when chocolates, biscuits, and other goodies came in sturdy, decorative containers that lasted far beyond their original purpose. Nowadays, eco-friendly plastic tubs have largely taken over, but those vintage tins have found a second life as perfect storage for buttons, mementos, and all sorts of small treasures.
Take, for instance, this early 1960s Mackintosh’s Quality Street tin, a charming piece in design and nostalgia. Its bright colors and festive artwork are a delightful throwback, especially now that these iconic tins are a favourite among collectors.
Oxo cubes, another classic product, also came in tins with unique designs. The example pictured here includes an advertisement printed on the inside lid, ensuring that the Oxo brand stayed fresh in the kitchen long after the last cube was used.
Then there are biscuit tins, often large enough to hold all kinds of collectibles. And finally, we have a well-loved tin from the 1902 coronation of King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra. Although it’s over a century old, this tin continues to keep odds and ends safe, proving the durability and lasting charm of vintage tins.
These pieces of history serve as both decorative items and practical storage solutions, making them a favourite for collectors everywhere.
The Quirky World of PEZ Dispensers
PEZ first appeared in the 1930s, originally designed as a mint candy to help steer servicemen away from smoking. Manufactured by an Austrian company, the first PEZ dispensers were simple tin creations. As production shifted to the United States, the dispensers evolved, becoming colourful holders for candy, and their iconic character designs began to emerge.
These early PEZ dispensers, often referred to as “soft heads” due to the material used, are now highly prized among collectors. Some of the rarest figures—like a peculiar hippo or an Austrian man—have sold for over $1,000 each. But it’s not just famous characters that hold value; some of the most sought-after dispensers are of figures many may not recognize.
Early models, often made from non-biodegradable plastic and featuring fun (yet sometimes dangerous) additions like whistle tops and glow-in-the-dark parts, are now more suited for display than practical use. Whether it’s nostalgia or rarity that attracts collectors, PEZ dispensers have cemented their place as a fun and quirky piece of candy history.
Much More Than A Badge
Here’s a fine example of New Old Stock—a trove of pristine Salvation Army cap badges dating back to the First World War. For collectors and dealers, the first rule remains: condition and quantity don’t determine authenticity.
These brass and silver-washed badges, complete with red cloth inserts, bear the stamp “MADE IN ENGLAND,” a marking born out of the 1887 Merchandise Marks Act. This act mandated that products clearly state their country of origin, coincidentally the same year that Captain William Ebdon designed the Salvation Army badge, giving rise to its emblematic details in 1878.
Look closely at the badge’s intricate symbolism:
- The Sun’s Flame Edge – Representing the light and fire of the Holy Spirit.
- The Crown of Glory – For the reward faithful soldiers receive from God.
- Crossed Swords – Signifying the “war” in Salvation.
- The ‘S’ on the Cross – The true cross of salvation.
- Seven Dots – Representing the truth of the holy gospel.
- Red Cloth Backing – For the blood of Christ.
It turns out, this isn’t just a badge; it’s a story. Salvation Army huts—serving tea and buns—became veritable lifelines on the war front between 1914 and 1919, bringing a taste of home to weary soldiers.
Chindit Hat: A Relic of the 65th Column’s Journey
This worn Chindit hat bears the distinctive 65th Column patch, a hand-made piece from India, representing the York and Lancaster Regiment. The regiment played a significant role in the second Chindit expedition, which was part of the Allied effort to disrupt Japanese operations in Burma during World War II.
Dated to 1942, this hat stands as a silent witness to the treacherous jungle warfare endured by these soldiers. The Chindits, known for their long-range penetration missions, faced not only the enemy but also the harsh realities of the jungle. This hat, worn by one such soldier, carries with it the scars of history—each thread of the patch, each worn edge, tells a tale of endurance and determination.
This relic, with its hand-crafted insignia and deep ties to a storied regiment, offers both historical significance and a tangible connection to one of the most challenging campaigns of the war.