John Black at Sworders recently had the pleasure of valuing a remarkable local collection centred on a unique passion: memorabilia of Queen Victoria.
14 November 2024
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For decades, the vendor’s late wife carefully built an impressive collection, which began in 1978 with a gift from her godmother. Now, after nearly 50 years, he is consigning two treasured Parian busts of the monarch to Sworders' upcoming Homes & Interiors sale on November 20 and 21.
A selection of Victoriana, consigned to the Homes & Interiors auction on 20 & 21 November
The first is a large Robinson & Leadbetter Parian bust, dated circa 1897, sculpted by R.J. Morris to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. Standing proudly at nearly 40cm, this commemorative piece reflects the grandeur of the occasion and is estimated at £400-600. The second bust, an earlier example of the monarch wearing a diadem, created by Copeland, dates to 1856, and is valued at £300-500. Both sculptures are exquisite examples of the Parian ware technique, which became popular in the 19th century for its resemblance to marble but at a fraction of the cost. Also included is a plaster bust of Queen Victoria, after Mary Thornycroft; Staffordshire figures of Victoria and Prince Albert and also tinsel pictures, prints and a wool work of her.
A selection of Victoriana, consigned to the Homes & Interiors auction on 20 & 21 November
The collector’s journey in amassing these fascinating items has a charm all its own. Sworders’ vendor was a touring musician who travelled across the UK, visiting antique shops and auctions in search of rare finds for his late wife. Each piece holds a memory, from unexpected discoveries in small-town shops to more adventurous acquisitions—like a five-foot-long Samuel Cousins engraving framed in gilt. This striking piece, found in Devon, had to be wrapped in a blanket and strapped to the roof rack for its journey back to Essex.
For lovers of Victoriana, these busts, along with many other treasures, provide a glimpse into an era of grandeur and devotion to the monarchy—an era cherished by collectors and historians alike.
homesandinteriors@sworder.co.uk | 01279 817778
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