Other

Desk bell, made in the early 20th century in Berlin

A chrome-plated desk bell that rings when the top button is pressed. It was most likely used in establishments such as hotels or shops, where customers could ring it to attract attention.

Historically, desk bells were primarily used in aristocratic households. During long meals, they were used to summon a maid to serve the next course or bring drinks. This custom was particularly widespread in America, whereas in Europe it was more common for servants to stand by the table so they could immediately attend to any request. Desk bells became widely used in Europe only in the 19th century, when they started to appear in establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Dimensions: 11,5 × 9,5 × 9,5 cm

Weight: 0,4 kg

The bell is in excellent condition.

Death mask, made in 1928.

A plaster death mask, first casting, signed Schäper and dated 1928.

Death masks are certainly one of the more fascinating traditions of human history and a way in which people preserved the memory of the deceased. The most famous death masks undoubtedly originate from Egypt, where they were buried together with the dead. Ancient Roman masks made of wax are also well known; these were used as models for carving tombstones. A similar tradition continued for centuries until changes in production occurred toward the end of the Middle Ages, when plaster began to be used instead. At that time, masks were used in funeral rituals and later preserved in libraries, museums, and universities.

Death masks were not made only for royalty and nobility, but also for distinguished individuals — poets, philosophers, dramatists, and others. As in ancient Rome, these masks were often used as references for portraits, sculptures, busts, or engravings depicting the deceased. Today, death masks have somewhat fallen into obscurity, yet they remain a powerful reminder of mortality and carry a strong memento mori symbolism.

Dimensions: 28 × 17 × 14 cm

Weight: 1,1 kg

The mask is in good condition.

Art Nouveau necklace, made in the early 1900s.

Ice bucket made in Switzerland in the mid-20th century.

An elegant ice bucket featuring lion head handles. Perfect for serving chilled drinks in style, and thanks to its classic design, it also makes an excellent decorative piece for your cocktail corner or home bar.

Dimensions: 24 × 20 × 16 cm

Weight: 1,5 kg

The ice bucket is well preserved.

Flower stand, made at the end of the 19th century.

Tin box from the late 19th century.

Vintage decoy duck from the second half of the last century.