Sold for $2,394
This lot contains six items connection to the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. The blue pin was worn by Bertha Palmer for her role as President of the Board of Lady Managers. The embroidered textile features four likenesses of Bertha Palmer from the time of the 1893 World's Fair and the remaining items are souvenirs, with two spoons that feature images of Bertha Palmer. These items were preseved by the famly for generations.
THE FIRST
Circular panel of fine white cotton or linen richly embroidered with four images believed to be Bertha Palmer. The four portraits are framed with flowers and garland and the initials "PP" can be seen throughout.
Circumference: 29.5"
THE SECOND
One Silver spoon featuring the head of Bertha Palmer at the top and the spoon features the Woman's Building along with its name and the words "World's Columbian Exposition". The handle features the words "1893 World's Fair Chicago". The words "Bertha M. Honore Palmer" are featured on the backside, along with "Sterling Pat. 1893".
Length: 6"
THE THIRD
One Silver spoon featuring the head of Bertha Palmer surrounded by a wreath and on top of a globe and bird. The spoon features an image of and the words "Children's Home Chicago 1893". A small child holding a parasol is featured on the reverse below the words "Going to the World's Fair". The backside also features: "Sterling" and "1492 - 1893".
Length: 5.75"
THE FOURTH
Metal and ribbon pin featuring the words "World's Columbian Commission / 1492 / 1892/" and "Board of Lady Managers / President". One the front of the circular medallion is the profile image of and the name "Christopher Columbus". On the back are three boats and a commemoration.
Length: 3.5"
THE FIFTH
Small sterling silver metal case with hinged lid. The case features a raised image of the Woman's Building at the World's Fair and the name "Woman's Building".
Length: 1.5"
THE SIXTH
Square silver medallion featuring a bust of Columbus at the top, the Aztec calendar in the middle, and navigational instruments at the bottom. To the left is a ship, a steam train to the right. The dates 1492 and 1892. The reverse features an allegorical scene with a male adorned for blacksmith work, a female with grains, and Hermes (or Mercury). Behind them is the American flag and an eagle. The banner above reads, RECUERDO DE LA EXPOSICION DE CHICAGO and 1893 at the bottom. The medallion is finished with a ribbon of red, white, blue, and green.
Condition:
THE FIRST
The overall condition is good. The panel has no spots, but there are several areas where the fabric has worn thin on either the weft or warp or with small pin holes.
THE SECOND
The overall condition is very good with minor surface scratches from wear.
THE THIRD
The overall condition is very good with minor surface scratches from wear.
THE FOURTH
The overall condition is good with some soiling to the blue silk ribbon.
THE FIFTH
The overall condition is good with minor surface scratching.
THE SIXTH
The overall condition is good with tarnish throughout.
Everything is sold 'As Is’. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please email [email protected] with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.