Circa 1880's "Heart in Hand" Odd Fellows Staffs






The Heart in Hand has been a symbol for the Independent Order of Odd Fellows since the 1700's.

These particularly fine examples are from the archive of, appropriately enough, Odd Fellows Art and Antiques.

Saturday, April 18, 2009

Art of the Game Board






Variety of early graphic game boards. From Ricco/Maresca Gallery.

1920's Germany Novelty Porcelain Figures



These screamingly bizarre porcelain figures were created by the Schafer & Vater in 1920's Germany.

1913 Ectoplasm on the Medium Eva C's Bare Breast



Two original lantern slides.

The first is titled "Ectoplasm on the Medium Eva C's Bare Breast 5 or 9 Jan 13."

The second has a caption that reads "The photograph of a Chinaman with "Extras" which was taken by Mr. Wyllde as requested by some members of the Pasadena Physical Research Society."

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Circa 1940's-1950's Institutional Drawings and Paintings






A few interesting drawings and paintings, supposedly from an undesignated mental institution. One can't be certain about the provenance, but the images certainly are interesting.

Here's a link to the eBay listing: Click Here

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

The Imaginary Rebel


19th century CDV of a man with a hand drawn uniform.

The 19th Century Thread Frame




Here's a few nice examples of Victorian-era thread frames (well, except for the last one which is a rarer 20th century version). These were once a fairly common home craft that seems that have hit their peak in the late-19th century.

What's nice is that they are perfect for an entry-level collector as you can get most for between $ 10.00 - $ 25.00.

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

19th century painting of the Entombment of Christ




Interesting naive painting of the Entombment of Christ. Looks to be possibly an amateur copy of an existing lithograph or painting? Has a real surreal feel to it that I love.

Currently on eBay here and the seller describes this as being found in an old country house in Arezzo, Italy.

Circa 1920's Folk Art Carved "Punch and Judy" Puppet Heads






These GREAT folk art carved puppet heads were recently posted on eBay. They did not meet the reserve although they were bidded up to $810.00