Ornate Antique Silver Sewing Chatelaine in Orig. Case

English * 5 Attachments * Circa 1890s

This ornate chatelaine is silver plated. The back of the clip is stamped "E P N S" for Electro Plated Nickel Silver. It also has the crown mark that indicates it was made before 1897. The use of that mark was banned after 1897 as it too closely resembled the Sheffield crown hallmark used for sterling silver. It is complete and original with five chains and matching tools. The waist plaque has an open work scrolling design with a crowned king's head. The chains all have masks on the links and spring clips at the ends. The tools also have mask designs and human figures in yoga-like positions. The tools include a thimble bucket & thimble, a pencil, an aide memoire (notebook), a scissors sheath with steel scissors and a disc style pin cushion. The most wonderful thing is that it's still in the original presentation case.

The thimble is sterling silver and in great condition, crisp and in round with no holes or other damage. It has the English silver hallmarks for Birmingham 1896 and the maker's mark for Henry Fowler. It is about an American size 7-8 (14.8 mm diameter opening). The little steel scissors are 3 1/8" long. The blades are tight with intact points and they cut very well. The condition of the chatelaine & all of the attachments is excellent with no dents, loss or other damage. The chatelaine measures 12 1/4" long from top to bottom. The case is in wonderful condition and lined with velvet and satin. It measures 13 1/2" x 6 1/2" and closes with two flip-down bass clasps.

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The membership benefits are outstanding. They have a convention every two years where you'll have a chance to attend great programs and meet others sharing your interests. The next one is in San Antonio, TX in September of 2026. You will receive an excellent quarterly magazine, the "Bulletin". The member's sections of the website have dozens of research articles, hundreds of fake and repro items to beware of and price guides. There is also a chat room where you can ask questions and get expert feedback about your collection. Check them out today at thimblecollectors dot com.