A Private Collection of Enamel | Part 2

A Private Collection of Enamel | Part 2

By Emma Barnett

Following the success of our 15th October Fine & Decorative Arts sale, we are pleased to announce Part 2 of the single-owner collection of enamel works in our Wednesday 4^th March auction.

The private collection began with an appreciation of enamel, which soon evolved into a lifelong devotion. It spans several continents, periods, and techniques – from Europe to East Asia, Meiji to mid-century, and cloisonné to plique à jour. The owner’s expertise and enjoyment of the collection are evidenced by its fine quality. Most pieces are by renowned enamellers, including Marius Hammer, Fauré, and Limoges. 

Lot 192 was particularly admired and sought after. Designed by Henrich Levinger, this Art Nouveau box depicts a red-haired maiden in guilloche enamelling. The hammer fell at £2,400 after a frenzy of spirited bidding. 

Staying in Continental Europe, Lot 210 was a painted enamel ewer by Ludwig Politzer. The intricate decoration told an evocative story of a courting couple, seated within a Renaissance-style garden. Set against a deep red enamel background, it made £1,500. 

As enamelling is a difficult and precise skill, it is applied to a base of precious metals, as illustrated in Lot 193. This Russian silver gilt kovsh is decorated with intricate cloisonné flowers. Kovsh were traditionally used as drinking vessels but were later used as ornaments and ceremonial gifts from the 17th century onwards. Small yet beautiful, it went on to achieve £600.

Another intriguing piece was Lot 127 – a Japanese silver and cloisonné twin handled vase. In the form of a trophy cup, it was engraved with Japanese characters to an unusual Art Nouveau border of butterflies. The reverse depicted enamel cockerels, and the stand came complete with a Liberty London sticker. Dating to around 1900, it sold for £900.

We hope to build upon these strong results in our 4th March sale, with over 50 lots of enamel. These include examples from the workshop of Ando Jubei, alongside French Limoges and Austrian enamel. The sale is live online to register to bid and browse these enamelled treasures!