A brilliant late Victorian miniature solid Sterling silver & leather, standing photo frame, hand crafted in England by Crisford & Norris Ltd.
Encapsulated inside the frame is a beautifully well preserved, and incredibly rare, sticky-back portrait postage stamp, matched in era to the hallmarks represented on the miniature frame.
This frame is an early piece crafted by renowned Birmingham jewellers & silversmiths, Crisford & Norris, with their business established only 3 years prior.
History
Sticky- backs
Sticky backs were printed postage stamp sized photographs that were originally offered by some photographers as a souvenir type gift. Introduced by photographer Alexander Bassano in 1863, continuing in production until the early 1900's.
These novelty sized photograph keepsakes grew in popularity with many admirers of the trend keeping portrait stamp collections during this time.
It is incredibly rare to find one of these in this condition today, as most were stuck onto envelopes and cards that would have been sent to loved ones.
Crisford & Norris
Founded in 1896 by Harold Crisford & William Clement Norris, Crisford and Norris Ltd was located on Vyse Street, Birmingham.
Well known & Appreciated for their unique and high Quality, Luxury silver pieces, such as card boxes, baby rattles, powder compacts, stamp cases plus more! The business was later acquired by Ward Brothers Ltd. In 1959.
This is an absolutely incredible collectors piece, that has been miraculously well preserved for 125 years and counting. This piece would make a wonderful addition to the collection of anyone who can appreciate this piece for what it is, and who plans to leave the piece intact to remain of quality for possibly centuries to come.
Details
- full hallmarks to the reverse of the Frame; makers mark, metal purity, and date stamp.
- dated to 1899- the portrait stamp is of similar era.
- measures a petite 27mm X 23mm
- original- rare- sticky-back portrait stamp
Condition
Good preloved Antique condition with signs of wear that are commensurate with age and use. Nice patina has been reserved on the silver frame. The stamp is in very good preserved condition. The glass face of the frame shows some scratches and signs of wear.
