Details
Description
A unique and historically significant piece of mid-century American luxury, this sterling silver desktop frame was crafted by the venerable …
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A unique and historically significant piece of mid-century American luxury, this sterling silver desktop frame was crafted by the venerable Fifth Avenue Silversmith Black, Starr & Gorham. It serves as a dual-milestone presentation piece originating from the executive circles of the Metropolitan Museum of Art (M.M.A).
The top of the frame is stamped with the museums initials "M.M.A.", while the lower border is deeply stamped "August 15, 1945" - the historic date of V-J Day, marking the end of World War II. The Metropolitan Museum held a deep connection to the war effort, with it's executive leadership, trustees, and curators serving at the absolute forefront of the Monuments, Fine Arts, and Archives (MFAA)" program - the famous "Monuments Men" - who protected and recovered Europe's looted cultural treasures.
In 1946-1947, as the Met celebrated it's high-profile 75th Diamond Jubilee, the museum's executive committee utilized these prestigious, specially commissioned wartime frames for top-tier institutional donors and trustees. Nestled safely under the original glass is a vibrant custom-commissioned original abstract mixed-media painting (watercolor, gouache, and ink). The artwork is beautifully hand-signed and dated in ink by the artist: "7.11.47"
The reverse lip of the substantial sterling frame bears the crisp stamped hallmarks of Black, Starr & Gorham, "STERLING", and the design pattern number "3". It features its original beautifully preserved easel-back stand.
An extraordinary crossover acquisition piece that seamlessly appeals to collectors of the fine American Silver, World War ll home front history, and elite New York institutional provenance
Metropolitan Museum of Art Presentation Piece. Black, Starr & Gorham sterling frame. WWII V-J Silver Memorabilia. Monuments Men art history collectible. Luxury museum trustee gift 1940s. Original 1947 signed water color miniature. Fifth Avenue New York silver antique. Sterling Silver pattern 3 desk frame
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- Dimensions
- 4.25ʺW × 1ʺD × 5.5ʺH
- Artist
- Black, Starr & Frost
- Brand
- Gorham Silver Co.
- Styled After
- Provenance, Ltd.
- Period
- 1940s
- Country of Origin
- United States
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Glass
- Gouache
- Mixed-Media
- Pen and Ink
- Silver
- Sterling Silver
- Watercolor
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Silver
- Condition Notes
- Very good condition. Shows a rich, authentic age-appropriate patina and minor tarnishing to the sterling silver surfaces, which can be … moreVery good condition. Shows a rich, authentic age-appropriate patina and minor tarnishing to the sterling silver surfaces, which can be polished to a bright shine if preferred by the buyer. Easel back is sturdy and fully functional. Original artwork is exceptionally clean with vibrant coloration. less
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Return Policy - All sales are final 48 hours after delivery, unless otherwise specified in the description of the product.
Cancellation Policy - Prior to shipping or local pickup, buyers may cancel an order for up to 48 hours, unless otherwise specified.
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