Circa 1830 Samuel Pierce Pewter Frames (Pair) Very Rare Rounded Rims Type

Description: Ca.1830 Samuel Pierce Pewter Frames (Pair) Very Rare Rounded Rims Type Note: The modern crude silhouette prints were placed in the frames for photography purposes only. They are not included in this sale unless you wish to have them. We have a very rare pair of American pewter frames here, crafted by Samuel Pierce (1767-1840), an early American pewterer from Greenfield, Massachusetts. Pierce produced two types of miniature pewter frames: flat-rimmed with flat glass and rounded rims with concave glass. The latter type, which we have, is much rarer. In fact, VERY RARE! Each frame measures approximately 3.25" in diameter, though they are slightly out-of-round. The condition is excellent throughout, with an untouched glossy gray patina. The concave glasses are also in fine condition. Justin Salisbury, a silhouette artist, often used these frames for his work. Originally, the backs of these frames would have been covered with very thin cardboard, holding a silhouette or miniature watercolor portrait securely in place through friction. The original glasses are not removable from the frames, as the two adjoining thin pewter frames that pop into each other were 'joined shut' after the glass was placed inside. This design suggests that these frames might have been prototypes by Samuel Pierce, a feature that may not have appealed to Justin Salisbury. So, what we have here is a very rare matched pair of early American pewter frames with their original glass. If you're considering buying this pair to display your silhouettes, I would discourage it, as they won't work well. There just isn't much of a space for a silhouette and its backing to fit comfortably in these frames, unless you have dexterous fingers and know what you are doing. But if you are a klutz like me, do not attempt it. However, if you're purchasing these for their rarity and aesthetic appeal, go for it. And I’m offering them at a bargain price! NOTE: We illustrate an engraved print of Lafayette in pewter frame by Samuel Pierce. It brought $2,232.50 in 2013. That price is for a SINGLE frame. Once in a while, we find Washington's image in one of these pewter frames as well. They, too, bring huge prices.

Price: 375 USD

Location: Upstate, New York

End Time: 2024-11-08T21:53:25.000Z

Shipping Cost: 15 USD