Sterling Silver Coronation Chair Pin Cushion from Saunders & Shepherd, 1901

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A charming and highly collectible Edwardian novelty pin cushion fashioned as a miniature coronation chair, crafted in solid sterling silver … Read more A charming and highly collectible Edwardian novelty pin cushion fashioned as a miniature coronation chair, crafted in solid sterling silver by Cornelius Desormeaux Saunders and James Francis Hollings Shepherd and hallmarked in Chester for 1901. The piece is beautifully modelled as an ornate ceremonial throne, with the miniature chair form displaying impressive attention to architectural and decorative detail. Its sculptural construction transforms an everyday sewing accessory into an engaging miniature work of British silver. The seat incorporates the pin cushion itself, contrasting with the polished silver framework while retaining the practical purpose for which the object was originally conceived. Novelty silver pin cushions became particularly fashionable around the turn of the 20th century, with silversmiths producing imaginative forms ranging from animals and furniture to vehicles and everyday objects. The coronation-chair design gives this example particular historical character. Produced in 1901, at the beginning of the Edwardian era, its ceremonial form reflects contemporary interest in royal and coronation imagery. The piece is confirmed as solid silver and carries the attribution to Saunders & Shepherd. Its diminutive scale, identifiable makers and unusual sculptural form make it particularly appealing for collectors of antique silver miniatures, novelty pin cushions and Edwardian decorative arts. Maker: Cornelius Desormeaux Saunders & James Francis Hollings Shepherd Origin: Chester, England Date: 1901 Period: Edwardian Material: Solid sterling silver, textile pin cushion Hallmarked; Chester 1901 Maker's mark for ; Cornelius Desormeaux Saunders & James Francis Hollings Shepherd. Dimensions; Height 55 mm Base 30 x 22 mm Gross weight; 23.8 grams See less