#7200 $3,500
Silk parasol with detachable ivory/quartz handle, c.1900
With exceptional design and detail, the parasol is a collector's treasure and an extraordinary rarity. It came from a wealthy New England estate together with items from couture houses, including Pingat. The original owner obviously made the Grand Tour. Today one rarely sees items of such outstanding quality come onto the market.
The parasol was described by the estate as French. However, the label implies a Swiss origin: "A l'Emeraude/Jacques Schwo?/Galeries/ St-Francois/Lausanne." The label is on the inside of the box lid.
The large mushroom shape has a base covering of delicate pink China silk. The outer layer of pale blue silk chiffon with hand-stitched ruching allows the pink to show through in a lovely two-tone effect. The parasol is large and dramatic. You feel that you could fly away with Alice to Wonderland.
The pièce de résistance is the handle. The base unscrews and comes in a special satin-lined box. The handle was made from ivory with a base of pink quartz crystal with bands of faceted clear crystal and hand-painted floral enamel. How artful to repeat the pink and blue colors of the silk covering on the handle!
The condition is almost excellent. The parasol has a crack on the handle, which is reflected in the price. The crack does not go all the way through the handle and can be repaired by an expert. This is an important piece that deserves restoration, which would greatly increase the value. The parasol still displays beautifully.
It measures 40" long and has an open diameter of 36".
