Learn about antiques and collectables...
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Learn about and understand the items, manufacturers, designers and periods as well as the specialist terms used in describing antiques and collectables. Either click one of the letters below to list the items beginning with that letter, or click on a category on the left side of the screen to list the items under that category.
Vacheron Constantin
Vacheron Constantin is the oldest watch manufacturer in the world, founded in Geneva in 1755 by Jean-Marc Vacheron. The company has a long and illustrious history, producing some of the most famous and coveted watches in the world.
In the early days, Vacheron Constantin focused on producing pocket watches for the wealthy and elite. However, in the early 1900s, the company began to produce wristwatches, which were becoming increasingly popular. Vacheron Constantin quickly became a leader in the field of wristwatch manufacturing, and its watches were worn by royalty and celebrities alike.
In the 1920s, Vacheron Constantin introduced the Calibre 101, which is still the smallest mechanical watch movement in the world. The Calibre 101 is so small that it can fit in a wristwatch case that is only 10.6 millimeters in diameter.
In the 1940s, Vacheron Constantin introduced the Overseas collection, which is a line of luxury sports watches. The Overseas collection was a huge success, and it helped to solidify Vacheron Constantin's reputation as a leading manufacturer of luxury watches.
Vacheron Constantin continues to produce some of the most coveted watches in the world. The company's watches are known for their exquisite craftsmanship, their elegant design, and their high level of accuracy and are a status symbol, as they are worn by some of the most successful and influential people in the world.
Val Saint Lambert
Val Saint Lambert is a Belgian crystal glassware manufacturer, founded in 1826 and based in the city of Seraing. The company was founded by François Kemlin, a chemist, and Auguste Lelièvre, a glassmaker. They purchased the site of the former Val-Saint-Lambert Abbey in Seraing near Liège on the river Meuse. There they founded a new glassworks (still in operation to this day, originally focused on heavy lead crystal), which initially employed some of the key workers from the former Vonêche glassworks. The two founders initially built two houses for themselves, and block accommodation for the acquired former Vonêche workers.
Val Saint Lambert became one of the leading crystal manufacturers in the world. The company's products were known for their high quality and beauty. Val Saint Lambert was also a pioneer in the development of new techniques for making crystal, such as the use of acid etching and engraving.
Embracing the artistic movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Val Saint Lambert made significant contributions to Art Nouveau and Art Deco glassware. Collaborations with renowned artists and designers, such as Philippe Wolfers and Joseph Simon, allowed the company to create glassware characterized by innovative designs, organic forms, and intricate decorative motifs.
The turbulent years of the two World Wars and the subsequent economic downturn posed significant challenges for Val Saint Lambert. To weather these hardships, the company adapted to changing market demands by shifting its focus from luxury glassware to industrial glass production. Val Saint Lambert diversified its offerings to include automotive and pharmaceutical glass, ensuring its survival
Val Saint Lambert also faced financial difficulties. In 1981, the company was sold to a group of investors but in the 1990s, Val Saint Lambert began to make a comeback. The company introduced new products, such as stemware and tableware, and it began to market its products more aggressively. Val Saint Lambert also began to collaborate with designers from around the world and became the leading manufacturer of crystal in the world. It had the royal warrant of King Albert II of Belgium, who ruled from 1993 to 2013. The company's products are sold in over 100 countries.
Valentino
Valentino is an Italian fashion brand that was founded by
Valentino Garavani in 1960 when he opened a fashion house on Via Condotti in
Rome. The company began producing luxury handbags and purses in the early
1970s, and quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality materials and
impeccable craftsmanship.
Valentino's early handbag designs were often characterized
by their elegant and understated style, featuring simple shapes and minimal
embellishments. The brand's signature rockstud detailing, which consists of
small pyramid-shaped studs, was introduced in the early 2000s and has since
become one of its most recognizable design elements.
In 1998 the company was sold to HdP, an Italian conglomerate
and later sold by HdP to Marzotto Apparel, a Milan-based textile giant. In
2012, Qatari aristocrats acquired Valentino.
Over the years, Valentino has produced a wide range of
handbag styles, from classic totes and clutches to more modern backpacks and
crossbody bags. The brand is known for its use of high-quality materials such
as leather, suede, and exotic skins, as well as its attention to detail and
fine craftsmanship.
Valentino's handbags and purses have been popular with
celebrities and fashion enthusiasts around the world, and the brand has
collaborated with a number of high-profile designers and artists over the
years. In 2020, the brand announced a new sustainability initiative, pledging
to use more eco-friendly materials and reduce its carbon footprint in the
production of its handbags and other products.
As well as handbags and purses, Valentino is known for its high-end,
luxurious clothing for both women and men, including dresses, suits, jackets,
pants, and more. Valentino's footwear line includes a variety of styles for
women and men, such as pumps, sandals, boots, and sneakers.
Valentino's commitment to quality and innovation continues
to drive its success.
Van Briggle Pottery
Van Briggle Pottery is a well-known American pottery company that was founded in 1899 in Colorado Springs, Colorado by Artus and Anne Van Briggle. Artus Van Briggle was a well-known artist and ceramicist who had previously worked for the Rookwood Pottery Company in Cincinnati, Ohio.
The Van Briggle Pottery Company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality art pottery with a distinctive style. The company's early designs were inspired by the Arts and Crafts movement, and featured organic forms and flowing lines. Many of their pieces were adorned with floral motifs, and were finished in a range of matte glazes.
One of Van Briggle's most famous designs was the "mulberry" glaze, which was a rich, purple colour that became synonymous with the company. The company also produced a range of other glazes, including turquoise, blue, green, and brown.
Unfortunately, Artus Van Briggle died in 1904 at the young age of 35, and the company was left in the hands of his widow Anne. Under her leadership, the company continued to thrive, and continued to produce high-quality art pottery that was well-received by collectors and enthusiasts.
After Anne Van Briggle's death in 1912, the company went through a number of different owners and management changes, and struggled to maintain its earlier success. However, in the 1960s, the company was purchased by a group of investors who were committed to reviving the Van Briggle name.
Van Briggle Pottery continues to produce high-quality art pottery that is sold in retail stores and online.
Van Cleef & Arpels
Van Cleef & Arpels is a renowned French jewellery, watch, and perfume company that was founded in 1906 by Alfred Van Cleef and his uncle Salomon Arpels. The company has since gained international recognition for its exquisite craftsmanship, innovative designs, and association with high society.
Alfred Van Cleef was born in 1873 in the Netherlands, and his uncle Salomon Arpels was a gemstone merchant from Belgium. In 1895, Alfred married Estelle Arpels, Salomon's daughter, which further strengthened their family ties. Inspired by their shared passion for jewellery and precious stones, Alfred and Salomon decided to establish their own luxury jewellery business in Paris.
Van Cleef & Arpels established a reputation for creating elegant and intricate designs, drawing inspiration from various artistic movements, nature, and different cultures around the world. Their jewellery pieces were characterised by exceptional craftsmanship, the use of vibrant coloured gemstones, and innovative techniques such as the Mystery Set, which involves setting stones in a way that hides the prongs.
In the 1920s and 1930s, Van Cleef & Arpels became a favourite of royalty, aristocrats, and celebrities, including the Duchess of Windsor, Grace Kelly, and Elizabeth Taylor. The company expanded its operations and opened boutiques in prestigious locations such as New York, London, and Geneva, further solidifying its international presence.
In the 1950s, Van Cleef & Arpels began to expand internationally. They opened boutiques in New York, London, and other major cities. The company also began to produce jewelry for the film industry. They created pieces for films such as "Breakfast at Tiffany's" and "The Princess Bride."
Van Cleef & Arpels is renowned for its iconic jewellery collections, such as the "Alhambra" line, which features delicate clover-shaped motifs, and the "Zip" necklace, which was inspired by the zipper. The company's commitment to quality and innovation has also led to the development of intricate timepieces and luxurious fragrances.
Over the years, Van Cleef & Arpels has continued to evolve and adapt to changing trends while maintaining its timeless elegance. The brand remains synonymous with luxury, sophistication, and exceptional craftsmanship, appealing to discerning customers around the world.
Van Cleef & Arpels continues to create exquisite jewellery, watches, and perfumes, with its products being sold in exclusive boutiques worldwide.
Van Treight
Van Treight was a furniture design and manufacturing firm established in Homebush New South Wales, in 1934 by Dutch immigrant Frederick Van Treight. The company quickly became known for its high-quality, stylish furniture, which was inspired by both Scandinavian and colonial design traditions.
During the mid-century period, Van Treight produced a wide range of furniture, including sofas, armchairs, dining tables, sideboards, and bed frames. The company's furniture was characterized by its clean lines, simple forms, and use of high-quality materials such as teak, walnut, and rosewood.
Some of the key designers and makers of Van Treight mid-century furniture included Fred Van Treight (1902-1991) the founder and owner of Van Treight Furniture, a was a skilled craftsman and designer, and he was responsible for many of the company's most popular mid-century designs, such as the "Boomerang" chair; Bill Hunter (1922-2017) a furniture designer who worked for Van Treight in the 1950s and 1960s who was responsible for designing a number of popular pieces, including the "Scandinavian" range of furniture and John Van Treight, who was Fred Van Treight's eldest son, and joined the company in the 1960s. He was responsible for designing a number of pieces for the company's "Colonial" range of furniture.
Some of Van Treight's most popular mid-century furniture designs include the "Boomerang" chair, designed by Fred Van Treight in the early 1950s; the "Scandinavian" range of furniture, which was inspired by the popular Danish design movement of the time and the "Colonial" range of furniture, which was designed to evoke the feeling of early Australian colonial style.
Van Treight furniture was highly sought-after by Australian homeowners in the mid-century period. The company continued to operate until 1991, when Fred Van Treight retired.
Vande Pottery
Vande Pottery was a Sydney-based pottery company that was in production from 1948 to 1958. The company was founded by Samuel Vandesluis, an English migrant with Dutch-Jewish heritage. He arrived in Australia for a second time having worked in Melbourne during the 1920s.He had worked as a potter in the Netherlands and brought his skills and expertise with him to Australia.
The pottery produced a range of functional and decorative pottery items, including vases, bowls, jugs, and figurines. The company's designs were often inspired by nature, with many pieces featuring motifs of flowers, leaves, and animals.
Vande Pottery was known for its high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Each piece was handmade and hand-painted, with a focus on creating unique and individual pieces. The company's pottery was sold in department stores and boutique shops throughout Australia, and many pieces have become highly collectible today.
One of the most significant contributions of Vande Pottery was its role in promoting the development of Australian ceramics as an art form. Vandesluis was a pioneer of Australian ceramics and played an important role in establishing the reputation of Australian potters internationally.
In 1958, Vandesluis sold Vande Pottery to his business partner, J. Noordeman, who continued to operate the company until its closure in the early 1960s.
Vatne Mobler
Vatne Mobler was a Danish furniture manufacturer founded in 1945 by Hans Vatne. The company specialized in mid-century modern furniture, and its designs were often inspired by nature. Vatne Mobler's furniture was known for its clean lines, simple forms, and use of natural materials.
The company's most famous designer was Fredrik Kayser, who created many iconic pieces for Vatne Mobler, including the Model 550 sofa and the Hertug sideboard. Other well known best pieces designed by Vatne Mobler include the, the Oslo chair, the Bergen chair, and the Fjord table.
Vatne Mobler's furniture was popular in Scandinavia and the United States, and it is still sought-after by collectors today.
The company ceased production in 1975, but its furniture continues to be admired for its timeless design and quality craftsmanship.
Veneers
Veneers are thin sheets of well-figured timber that are glued under pressure to the surface of a cheaper timber for decorative effect, and then used in the making of carcase furniture.
Early veneers were saw-cut so were relatively thick, (up to 2 mm) but is was realised that saw cutting was wasteful, as timber to the equivilent of the thickness of the saw was lot on each cut.
A more efficient method was devised to slice the timber, either horizontally with a knife, or in a rotary lathe.
Flame veneer, commonly found in mahogany or cedar furniture, is cut from the junction of the branches and main trunk. So-called fiddleback veneers, where the grain is crossed by a series of pronounced darker lines, is usually cut from the outer sections of the tree trunk.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, and in much of the walnut marquetry furniture made during the latter part of the 19th century, the veneer was laid in quarters, each of the same grain, so that one half of the surface was the mirror image of the other.
The use of veneer allows many other decorative effects to be employed, including stringing, feather banding, cross banding, and inlaid decorative panels in the piece. The carcase over which veneer is laid is usually of cheaper timber such as pine, oak or, sometimes in Australia during the first half of the 19th century, red cedar.
The important thing to remember about veneers is that prior to about 1850 they were cut by hand, and were consequently quite thick - ranging up to about 2mm deep.
From the mid-19th century veneers were cut by machines and were almost wafer-thin. This is a critical point when trying to judge the approximate age of veneered furniture.
Venetian / Murano Glass
The history of Venetian and Murano glass dates back over 1,000 years. Venice was an important center for glassmaking in the Middle Ages, and by the 13th century, the city had established itself as the leading producer of glass in Europe.
During the Renaissance, the art of Venetian glassmaking reached its peak, with artisans producing some of the most exquisite glassware in the world. One of the most important innovations of this time was the development of cristallo, a type of clear glass that was almost as transparent as crystal. Cristallo was prized for its clarity and brilliance, and it quickly became a symbol of wealth and luxury.
In the 16th century, Venetian glassmakers faced a challenge when the city passed a law requiring all glass furnaces to be moved to the island of Murano. The law was passed in response to the risk of fire, which was high due to the wooden buildings in Venice. Despite the inconvenience of having to move their furnaces, Venetian glassmakers continued to thrive on Murano and continued to innovate.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, Murano glassmakers developed new techniques, such as filigrana, which involved creating delicate, twisted glass threads, and zanfirico, which involved weaving together threads of colored glass. These techniques were used to create intricate patterns and designs, and they remain some of the most iconic styles of Venetian and Murano glass.
In the 19th century, Murano glass experienced a decline due to competition from other countries, such as France and England, which were producing cheaper glassware. However, in the early 20th century, a revival of Murano glass began, due in part to the efforts of artist and designer Vittorio Zecchin, who worked to modernize and streamline the production of Murano glass.
After World War II, Murano glass experienced a resurgence in popularity, with artists and designers from around the world flocking to Murano to learn from the masters of the craft. Murano glass is still produced using traditional techniques, with artisans using a combination of heat, blowing, and moulding to create exquisite pieces of glassware.
One of the most famous types of Murano glass is Venetian millefiori, which involves creating intricate patterns by fusing together small, colored glass rods. The process is time-consuming and requires great skill, but the resulting pieces are breathtakingly beautiful.
Another product from Murano glass are Venetian glass chandeliers. These magnificent pieces are made by combining hundreds or even thousands of individual glass pieces to create a stunning, multi-tiered chandelier. Venetian glass chandeliers are prized for their beauty and elegance, and they remain one of the most iconic examples of Murano glass.
Murano glass remains an important part of Venetian culture and history. Visitors to the island can tour the various glass factories and watch as artisans create intricate pieces of glassware by hand.
Verge Escapement
A verge escapement is an early mechanical escapement used in clocks and other timekeeping devices. It is an early form of the escapement mechanism, which is used to regulate the movement of the hands of a clock or watch. The verge escapement consists of a vertical shaft called the verge, which is mounted on the clock's main plate. Attached to the verge are two pallets, which engage with the teeth of the escape wheel. As the escape wheel turns, the pallets alternately lock and release it, allowing the movement of the clock to be regulated. The verge escapement was widely used in early mechanical clocks, but it was eventually replaced by the more accurate and reliable anchor escapement.
Verlys Glass
Verlys, a French glassmaking company, was established in 1920 as a subsidiary of the Holophane Company of America. Initially focused on manufacturing vehicle headlights, the company expanded its operations in 1925 to include the production of art glass vases and bowls. They named this department Verlys, derived from a combination of the French word "verre" (meaning "glass") and the town of "Andelys," where their French factory was located.
In its early years, Verlys primarily crafted blown vessels with multiple layers of glass, featuring smooth exteriors and internal decorations. However, from 1933, they shifted their focus to producing high-quality press-moulded glass. Their range consisted of clear, frosted, opalescent, and coloured items, featuring designs typical of Lalique-style glass from the 1930s. These designs included plants, flowers, birds, fish, and abstract geometric patterns. Each year, Verlys released a catalogue showcasing new designs. Their glassware usually bore a moulded signature of "Verlys France" or "Verlys Made in France."
In 1935, Verlys established "Verlys of America" and opened a glassworks in Newark, Ohio. Molds were supplied from France to the Ohio facility, allowing for the production of similar items in both countries. However, not all French designs were replicated in the American works. Additionally, Verlys leased some of their moulds to other glass companies such as Heisey and Fenton, who produced limited runs of Verlys-inspired glassware. During the war, production declined in both France and the USA as Verlys increasingly focused on industrial products.
The Verlys range gradually diminished in both countries starting from 1940 and ultimately ceased production in the USA in 1951-52 and in France in the early 1960s. In 1955, Heisey glassworks leased some of the remaining Verlys molds, producing a limited range of Verlys designs until 1957 before returning the moulds. These pieces were not signed. In 1966, Fenton Art Glass Company acquired the surviving Verlys moulds but produced items in distinctly different colours and did not use the Verlys name.
Vermeil
Gold vermeil is sterling silver (.925 silver) plated with gold. The process originated in France around 1750. The technique was called fire gilding. Jewellery makers applied mercury and gold to the silver and exposed the metal to extreme heat. The heat caused the mercury to vaporize and the layer of gold to adhere to the silver. The qualify as vermeil, the gold layer with which the silver is plated must be at least 10-carat gold
The mercury vapours generated by the heat caused many artisans to become blind, and France made this process illegal in the 1800s. Modern gold vermeil is usually created using an electrolytic process, which is much safer than fire gilding yet produces a similar result.
Vermeil is usually found in jewellery and watches, and occasionally in dinnerware.
In the White House, the residence of the President of the United States, there is a Vermeil Room sometimes called the "Gold Room," which houses the collection of vermeil bequeathed to the White House in 1956 by Mrs. Margaret Thompson Biddle. The Vermeil Room serves as a display room and, for formal occasions, as a ladies sitting room.
Verner Panton
Verner Panton (1926-1998) was a Danish architect and designer who is best known for his innovative and colourful furniture and lighting designs that became emblematic of the 1960s and 1970s. He was born in Gamtofte, Denmark and studied at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen before working with designer Arne Jacobsen in the early 1950s.
In the 1960s, Panton began experimenting with the use of plastic and other synthetic materials in furniture design, creating iconic pieces such as the "Panton Chair" (1960) and the "Heart Cone Chair" (1959). These designs were characterized by their sleek, futuristic forms and vibrant colors, and they quickly gained popularity among a younger generation of design enthusiasts.
Panton's interest in using color as an integral part of his designs led him to develop a range of innovative lighting fixtures, including the "Flowerpot" pendant lamp (1968) and the "Moon" lamp (1960). These designs utilized bold colours and unconventional shapes, and helped establish Panton as one of the most influential designers of his time.
In addition to his work in furniture and lighting design, Panton also designed interiors and exhibitions. Notably, he created the "Verner Panton Bar" in Basel, Switzerland (1970), which was decorated with his signature use of bright colours and unconventional shapes.
Throughout his career, Panton received numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious German Design Award in 1972. His work continues to be celebrated and exhibited in museums and galleries around the world, and his designs remain popular with collectors and enthusiasts of mid-century modern design.
Vernis Martin
A generic name for a type of lacquer finish applied to furniture and a multitude of small articles, giving a brilliant translucent finish, imitating the Chinese and Japanese lacquer finishes on furniture imported into France during the Louis XV period..
Usually the surface to which the lacquer is applied was embellished with painted decoration of a classical scene.
The name is derived from the inventors, Simon-Etienne Martin and his two brothers, a distinguished family of French artist-artificers of the 18th century, who refined and perfected the technique, and were granted a monopoly in its manufacture in 1730.
Verre Églomisé
Verre églomisé is the process by which the reverse of glass is decorated with gold or silver foil, sometimes with the addition of painted decoration. The technique was popular in the early and mid 19th century, but its use dates back to pre-Roman times.
It was used as a decorative effect on mirrors, table tops and clocks.
Verso
Verso is the "back" side of a sheet of paper, art work, coin or medal. The front side is "recto".
Vesta Cases
In Roman mythology, Vesta was the goddess of hearth, home and family, and her presence was symbolised by the sacred fire that burned at her hearth and temples, inspiring several match companies to name their matches "vestas", the best known around 1900 being the "Swan Vestas" brand.
Vesta cases, also known as match safes were made to safely house a person's supply of matches, required because early matches were prone to combustion, either from the friction of rubbing together or spontaneous ignition.
Vesta cases came into use in the 1830s, but the peak period of their popularity was 1890 to 1920.
Most commonly they are silver, and rectangular in shape, with an end-opening spring-loaded close fitting lid at the top and a ribbed or serrated striking surface on the base.
Collectors seek out novelty shapes that include boots and shoes, bottles, snuff horns, animal heads, hearts, and circles.
However they were also made in gold, and enamel with silver, as well as cheaper materials such as brass and from nuts embellished with silver mounts.
One of the prolific makers of silver vesta cases was the firm Sampson Mordan & Co. which was founded in in 1823 and continued in the family until 1941 when the factory was destroyed by German bombing during the London Blitz.
The smoker's need for vesta cases (and matches) was in gradual decline from after World War I, with the introduction of the Ronson "Banjo" cigarette lighter in 1926, the first automatic lighter, followed by the "Zippo" lighter in 1932.
Vi Eyre
Vi Eyre (1870-1956) was a prolific early 20th century Sydney and Brisbane potter, known and highly regarded for her distinctly Australian motifs. She was also the wife and mother of cartoonists Hal Eyre and Harry Eyre Jnr respectively.
Little is known about Eyre's early life and training, but she is thought to have been self-taught. She began exhibiting her work in the early 1920s, and by the mid-1920s she was one of the most well-known potters in Australia. Her work was regularly exhibited at the Society of Arts and Crafts of NSW, and she was awarded numerous prizes for her pottery.
Eyre was known for her innovative use of glazes and her unique designs. She often decorated her pottery with Australian motifs, such as gum trees, kangaroos, and Aboriginal symbols. She was also a pioneer in the use of Australian native plants in her pottery.
Eyre's pottery was very popular with collectors and tourists, and her work was exported to all over the world. She was also a successful businesswoman, and she ran a successful pottery studio in Coogee, Sydney.
In 1931, Eyre and her family moved to Brisbane, where she continued to produce pottery. She exhibited her work regularly at the Queensland Art Gallery, and she was a member of the Queensland Arts Council.
Eyre retired from pottery in the early 1950s, and she died in 1956. Her work is held in major museums and galleries around Australia.
Vic. Greenaway
Victor (Vic.) Greenaway was born in 1947 in Sale, Victoria.
He studied ceramics at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology.
He established his first workshop in Hawthorn in 1968, Victoria, and the following year moved to a pottery in Upper Beaconsfield.
In 1974 he travelled abroad under a Churchill Fellowship and studied in Japan.
In 1976 he received a Mayfair Ceramic Award and in 1981 and 1983 the Stuart Devlin Craftsman Award for ceramics.
His first solo show was in 1973 at The Craft Centre, South Yarra.
He is represented in the Art Gallery of Western Australia, Auckland Museum, Australian National Gallery, Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences, National Gallery of Victoria, Newcastle Regional Art Gallery, Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, Queensland Art Gallery, as well as many provincial galleries.
Vichi, Ferdinando
Ferdinando Vichi (1875-1945) was a central figure in the production of Florentine sculpture at the end of the 19th century.
He is associated with the sculptors Cesare Lapini, Pietro Bazzanti and Guglielmo Pugi, all of whom executed works at The Galleria Bazzanti.
The gallery, originally Bazzanti's studio, was inaugurated in 1822 and is still open today. His compositions are varied in subject matter, ranging from busts after the Antique to Orientalist themes and Renaissance-inspired models.
Like many other late nineteenth-century sculptors, Vichi often took inspiration from classical antiquity. Historicising romantic subjects were very popular in Italian sculpture of the late 19th century
Vicke Lindstrand
Vicke Lindstrand was born in 1904, in Gothenburg, Sweden. He studied commercial art and worked in commercial illustration before beginning his career at the glass manufacturer Orrefors in 1925. He pioneered more daring art glass designs at Orrefors and together with Edvin Ohrstrom and Knut Bergqvist he invented the Ariel technique, in which a coloured layer of glass is encased by a clear layer and onto this “blank” a design is applied by sandblasting. This is then encased in clear glass and it is heated again and blown into its final form and size. In 1950 he joined Kosta Glasbruk as an artistic director before his retirement in 1973. At Kosta, he was the dominant designer, lending his name to many now classic designs.
Lindstrand's work is characterized by its bold, colourful, and often abstract forms. He was influenced by a wide range of sources, including folk art, nature, and modern art. His designs often feature geometric shapes, organic forms, and playful patterns. Lindstrand was a prolific designer, and he created a wide range of glassware, including vases, bowls, figurines, and lighting. His work was exhibited in major museums around the world, and he received numerous awards for his work, including the Lunning Prize in 1955 and the Prince Eugen Medal in 1971.
Although best known as a glass designer, he was also a textile artist, illustrator, painter, sculptor and ceramist.
Lindstrand's work had a major impact on the development of Swedish glass design. He was one of the leading figures in the "Swedish Grace" movement, which emphasized simplicity, functionality, and beauty. His work helped to bring Swedish glass to the attention of the world, and it continues to be admired by collectors and designers today.
Lindstrand died in 1983, in Kosta, Sweden.
Vico Magistretti
Vico Magistretti (1920 – 2006 was an influential Italian architect and designer known for his significant contributions to mid-century furniture design. He was born on October 6, 1920, in Milan, Italy, into a family of architects. His father, Pier Giulio Magistretti, was a prominent architect, and his grandfather, Cesare Magistretti, was an esteemed furniture designer.
Magistretti studied architecture at the Politecnico di Milano, where he graduated in 1945. Following his studies, he joined his father's architectural firm, where he gained valuable experience in architectural design and construction. In the 1950s, Magistretti began exploring furniture design and quickly made a name for himself as a leading figure in the field. His designs were characterized by a harmonious combination of form, function, and simplicity. He embraced the principles of modernism and sought to create furniture that was both aesthetically pleasing and practical for everyday use.
Throughout his career, Magistretti collaborated with renowned furniture manufacturers such as Cassina, Artemide, and De Padova. His collaborations resulted in the production of iconic furniture pieces that have become design classics. Some of his notable designs include the Carimate Chair, Eclisse Table Lamp, Selene Chair, and Maui Chair.
Magistretti's work earned him international recognition and numerous accolades. He received prestigious awards such as the Compasso d'Oro, Italy's highest design award, multiple times throughout his career. His designs were exhibited in major museums and galleries around the world, solidifying his status as a highly influential figure in mid-century furniture design.
In addition to furniture design, Magistretti continued to practice architecture and was involved in various architectural projects throughout his life. He embraced a holistic approach to design, seamlessly integrating furniture and architecture to create cohesive environments.
Vico Magistretti died in Milan in 2006.
Victoria Art Pottery
Victoria Art Pottery is considered to be one of Australia's first true Art Pottery firms. It commenced operations in Albion Street, Brunswick (Melbourne) in 1896; until 1912 under the inspirational guidance of Brothers Graham and William Ferry, as well as a collaboration with Richard Sturrock. English born, the Ferry Brothers learned their trade at the Linthorpe Pottery under the direction of the master designer Christopher Dresser whose influences can be strongly recognized in Victoria Art Pottery wares. Other influences and designs can be seen in both Burmantofts and Ault pottery. Although a successful firm in its day, the Ferry Brothers could not compete with the mass produced English wares that began to flood the market in the early 20th century. As a result Victoria Art Pottery pieces are scarce and highly desirable.
Victoria Howlett
Victoria Howlett was born in London in 1945 and studied ceramics at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology.
After several years lecturing in ceramics at Prahran College of Advanced Education, she travelled and worked in Canada, the United States of America, Mexico, Africa and England. In 1977 she established a studio in Melbourne and began potting and drawing full-time. In 1980 she undertook a lecture tour in the USA.
Her first solo exhibition was held in 1977. Since then she has regularly held solo exhibitions in Melbourne, Canberra and Sydney. She is represented in the Art Gallery of South Australia, Art Gallery of Western Australia, Ballarat Fine Art Gallery, as well as regional and municipal collections.
Victorian Period
The Victorian period of furniture and decorative arts design covers the reign of Queen Victoria from 1837 to 1901. There was not one dominant style of furniture in the Victorian period. Designers used and modified many historical styles such as Gothic, Tudor, Elizabethan, English Rococo, Neoclassical and others, although use of some styles, such as English Rococo and Gothic tended to dominate the furniture manufacture of the period.
The Victorian period was preceded by the Regency and William IV periods, and followed by the Edwardian period, named for Edward VII (1841 – 1910) who was King of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions and Emperor of India for the brief period from 1901 until his death in 1910.
Victory Industries
Victory Industries was a British company that produced die-cast metal model cars from the 1950s to the 1970s. The company was founded in 1953 by Jack Williams, who had previously worked for Dinky Toys. Victory Industries models were known for their high quality and attention to detail. They were also relatively expensive, which made them a popular choice for collectors.
The company's first models were based on British cars, such as the Jaguar XK120 and the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud. In the 1960s, Victory Industries began producing models of American cars, such as the Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Corvette. The company also produced a range of military vehicles, including tanks, airplanes, and ships.
Victory Industries went out of business in the early 1970s. However, their models remain popular with collectors today. Some of the most valuable Victory Industries models include the Jaguar XK120, the Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud, and the Ford Mustang.
Vide Poche
A vide poche (French: empty pocket) is a small low dish for temporarily storing items such as loose change, keys, tickets and so on.
Vienna Porcelain
The Vienna Porcelain Manufactory, also known as Royal Vienna, is one of the oldest and most prestigious porcelain manufacturers in Austria. The company was founded in 1718 by Claudius Innocentius du Paquier, a Dutchman who was granted permission by Emperor Charles VI to establish a porcelain manufactory in Vienna and continued in production until 1864.
In its early years, the Vienna Porcelain Manufactory produced a wide range of ceramics, including dinnerware, tea sets, and decorative objects, often featuring elaborate painted designs and gold embellishments. The company quickly gained a reputation for its high-quality porcelain, and by the mid-18th century, it was one of the leading porcelain manufacturers in Europe.
In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the Vienna Porcelain Manufactory shifted its focus to more Neoclassical designs, with an emphasis on simplicity and elegance. Many of the company's most notable pieces from this period featured classical motifs, such as urns, figures, and vases, often decorated with scenes from Greek mythology or ancient history.
By the 1860s the factory was suffering from increased competition from Bohemian factories in particular, and was eventually closed by the Austrian parliament in 1864, with the moulds and other equipment being given to the Museum of Applied Arts, Vienna. The brand was revived in 1923 with the foundation of the Vienna Porcelain Manufactory Augarten, usually abbreviated to Augarten.
Throughout 20th and 21st centuries, the Augarten Porcelain Manufactory continued to produce a wide range of porcelain products, including tableware, decorative objects, and art pottery.
Villeroy & Boch
Villeroy & Boch is a German ceramics company that has been in operation for over 250 years. The company was founded in 1748 by François Boch and his three sons in the town of Audun-le-Tiche, in the Duchy of Lorraine, which is now part of France. In 1836, Jean-François Boch merged with the successful stoneware manufacturer Nicolas Villeroy to form Villeroy & Boch.
Initially, the company produced a variety of ceramic products, including kitchen utensils, stoneware, and even glassware. However, in the mid-19th century, Villeroy & Boch began to focus more on producing decorative ceramics, including dinnerware and tiles.
During the 20th century, Villeroy & Boch continued to expand its product line and became a leading producer of high-quality ceramics. The company survived both World War I and II, and after the Second World War, it began to focus more on modern designs and innovative manufacturing techniques.
Today, Villeroy & Boch produces a wide range of products, including bathroom and kitchen fixtures, tiles, and tableware. The company is known for its high-quality products and its innovative designs, and its products are sold around the world.
Vinaigrette
A vinaigrette is a small tightly-lidded box, usually finely worked in gold, silver or enamel, with an often elaborate pierced grate beneath the outler lid, with the interior holding a sponge soaked in aromatic vinegar, its purpose being to disguise odours caused by poor hygiene and drainage. Vinaigrettes were used from the late 18th century until the late 19th century.
To prevent corrosion by the vinegar, the interior of the vinaigrette was usually gilded. Occasionally the grille is made of gold, a rare and desirable feature although often difficult to distinguish from gilt.
They were usually rectangular in shape, but are found in other shapes iincluding fish, bells, helmets, beehives books and so on. The most common material used was silver, but they were also made in other materials including precious stone, shell, ivory, enamel, agate, pearl and combinations of these.
Among the most collectable are the silver vinaigrettes known as "castle-tops" where the lid has an embossed image of a topographical scene including a recognisable castle, abbey or country house.
One of the most prolific makers of vinaigrettes was Nathaniel Mills & Sons of Birminham, who specialised in all types of boxes including snuff boxes and card cases.
Vincennes Porcelain
Vincennes porcelain originated in the town of Vincennes, which is now a suburb of Paris. In 1740, a French chemist named François Xavier d'Entrecolles managed to uncover the closely guarded Chinese porcelain production secret of producing soft-paste porcelain. This knowledge sparked interest in creating porcelain in Europe.
In 1745, a group of investors, including Jean Hellot, a chemist, and Louis-François Trouard, a financial backer, established a porcelain factory in Vincennes. They aimed to replicate the Chinese porcelain techniques. Initially, the Vincennes factory faced challenges in terms of materials, techniques, and financial stability. Recognizing the potential of the Vincennes factory, King Louis XV became a patron of the enterprise in 1753. The factory received royal protection and financial support.
In 1756, the factory moved to Sèvres, a location near Vincennes, and became known as the Royal Porcelain Factory of Sèvres. The move aimed to ensure a more suitable environment for production and access to resources.
The relocation marked the beginning of the renowned Sèvres porcelain, which became synonymous with luxury and quality. The factory continued to receive royal patronage, producing exquisite and finely crafted pieces.Vincennes and Sèvres porcelain played a crucial role in the development of European porcelain manufacture. The factory's success influenced other porcelain factories across Europe, contributing to the growth of the industry. Sèvres porcelain became known for its innovative techniques, intricate designs, and high-quality craftsmanship and the factory survived various historical events, including the French Revolution and the Napoleonic era.
Vitascope Clocks
Vitascope clocks were made invented in the Isle of Man in 1941 by J. S Thatcher, improved by Joseph Summerskill between 1944 and 1944, and manufactured from the late 1940s by Vitascope Industries Limited, based in the Isle of Man.
The electrically powered clocks included automata that caused the ship to gently rock in the waves, and the backlighting changes to indicate the changing time of the day, and the sea is lit for both sunset and sunrise.
According to the Isle of Man company records, Vitascope Industries Limited was dissolved in 1968.
Vitra Furniture
Vitra was founded in 1950 by Willi Fehlbaum. The company started out as a manufacturer of shop fittings, but soon expanded into furniture production. In 1957, Vitra began licensing the production of furniture from the Herman Miller Collection for the European market. This included designs by Charles and Ray Eames, George Nelson, and Isamu Noguchi.
In the 1960s, Vitra began to produce its own furniture designs. Some of the most iconic mid-century modern pieces from Vitra include the Panton Chair, the Eames Plastic Side Chair, and the Eames Lounge Chair. Vitra also worked with a number of other designers during this period, including Verner Panton, Alexander Girard, and Harry Bertoia.
In the 1970s, Vitra began to expand its operations beyond furniture production. The company opened a design museum in Weil am Rhein, Germany, and began to develop a portfolio of architectural projects. Vitra also began to work with a new generation of designers, including Jasper Morrison, Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, and Konstantin Grcic.
Today, Vitra is one of the leading manufacturers of modern furniture and accessories. The company is headquartered in Weil am Rhein, Germany, and has offices and showrooms in over 70 countries. Vitra continues to work with some of the world's most renowned designers, and its products are renowned for their high quality, timeless design, and sustainable manufacturing practices. These designers created some of the most iconic pieces of mid-century modern furniture, which are still popular today.
Vitrine
A French word for a display cabinet, from the French 'vitre', or glass, and usually applied to a display cabinet of French origin.
They were introduced in a modest way in 18th century France and became popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Some vitrines have a mirrored back allowing viewing of both the back and front of the objects displayed.
They are often embellished with ormolu mounts and painted or lacquered panels, and the style was copid in England in the late 19th century when the Louis XV style was in vogue.
Vivienne Westwood
Vivienne Westwood (1941 - 2022) was an English fashion designer and businesswoman, largely responsible for bringing modern punk and new wave fashions into the mainstream. She was born in the village of Tintwistle, Cheshire, England. She studied at the Harrow School of Art and the University of Westminster, taking courses in fashion and silver-smithing, but left after one term. She then became a primary school teacher.
In 1965, Westwood met Malcolm McLaren, who would become her partner and manager. They opened a boutique on King's Road in London, which they renamed SEX in 1974. The boutique sold Westwood's designs, which were inspired by punk rock and other subversive movements. Westwood's designs were often controversial and provocative. She used safety pins, razor blades, and other unconventional materials to create clothes that were both stylish and rebellious. She also incorporated political and social messages into her designs.
In the early 1980s, Westwood began to move away from punk and towards more traditional fashion. She continued to experiment with new ideas and techniques, but her designs became more sophisticated and polished. In 1981, Westwood had her first runway show in London. She continued to show her collections in London and Paris throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Her designs were worn by celebrities such as Madonna, Naomi Campbell, and Kate Moss.
Westwood was awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1992 and the Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2006. She was also named British Designer of the Year three times. Westwood was a passionate activist for environmental causes and human rights. She used her platform to raise awareness of issues such as climate change and nuclear disarmament.
Westwood died on December 29, 2022, at the age of 81. She is considered to be one of the most influential fashion designers of the 20th century.
Vizagapatam / Sadeli
Vizagapatam, now known as Visakhapatnam is an industrial city that stretches 3 km along the coast between Calcutta and Madras. In British colonial times the city was called Waltair, and part of the city is still known by its colonial British name.
In the mid 18th and 19th century the town became one of the centres in India for the manufacture of small wooden items, especially boxes, and furniture made of local hardwoods such as sandalwood, which has a strong fragrance and elaborately inlaid with ivory and other exotic materials including horn, ivory, porcupine quills and silver.
Another form of decoration used, was with Sadeli mosaics, an ancient craft that is said to have been introduced from Shiraz in Persia (now Iran) to India.
Ivory, silver, pewter, wood and horn were cut into faceted rods which were bound together to form geometric patterns. When the glue was set, the rods were sliced in transverse sections. This gave the maker a number of angled circular pieces in the original pattern. Several variations of patterns could be achieved by combining the materials in different ways. The ivory was sometimes dyed green to give an extra colour.
The technique, required a high degree of skill and patience, and as well, wasted a large amount of the precious materials.
Initially these items were mainly purchased by the Indian ruling classes and officials of the British East India Company, but when India came under British rule in the Victorian era, a wider market opened up.
The boxes were brought back or sent back to England usually by the people who had commissioned them. From the beginning of the nineteenth century they were imported more commercially, although not in any significant numbers until the middle decades.
Export was facilitated by the location of Vizagapatam: it was an important trading port for South East Asia, and a stopping point for vessels en-route from Europe to Canton.
Vladimir Tretchikoff
Vladimir Tretchikoff was a Russian-born South African artist who is best known for his iconic painting, "The Chinese Girl," also known as "The Green Lady." Tretchikoff was born in Petropavlovsk, Russia in 1913, and grew up in Harbin, China. He showed an early interest in art, and after moving to Singapore with his family, he began to take painting lessons from a local artist.
In 1936, Tretchikoff moved to South Africa, and established a reputation as a talented and innovative artist. He was particularly known for his portraits, which often featured exotic and colorful subjects, as well as his use of bold, vivid colors.
Tretchikoff's most famous work, "The Chinese Girl," was painted in 1952 and became an instant sensation. The painting, which depicts a young Chinese woman with green-tinted skin and a red flower in her hair, has been reproduced countless times and is still widely recognized and celebrated today.
Throughout his career, Tretchikoff continued to produce a wide range of paintings, from portraits and landscapes to still lifes and abstract works. He also wrote several books on art and painting, and was a popular and influential figure in the South African art scene.
Tretchikoff passed away in 2006.
Volkstedt Porcelain Manufactury
The Volkstedt Porcelain Manufactury was established in 1762 in the town of Volkstedt, Thuringia, Germany. It was founded by Georg Heinrich Macheleid, a porcelain painter from Meissen. Macheleid initially produced porcelain figurines and decorative items in the style of Meissen porcelain.
The ownership of the Volkstedt Porcelain Manufactury has changed hands several times throughout its history. In 1774, the company was acquired by Johann Friedrich Paulmann. Subsequently, ownership passed to various individuals, including Christian Nonne and Johann Karl Schönefeldt. Under the ownership of Christian Nonne, the Volkstedt Porcelain Manufactury experienced significant growth and expanded its production. The company produced a wide range of porcelain items, including figurines, vases, dinnerware, and decorative objects. Volkstedt porcelain gained a reputation for its high-quality craftsmanship and exquisite designs.
During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the Volkstedt Porcelain Manufactury embraced the neoclassical style that was prevalent in Europe. The company produced porcelain pieces inspired by classical Greek and Roman art, incorporating motifs such as mythological figures, ancient architecture, and floral designs.
In the 19th century, the company continued to thrive and adapt to changing tastes and incorporated elements of Romanticism into its designs, featuring naturalistic motifs and sentimental scenes. The porcelain items were often hand-painted and adorned with intricate detailing.
Like many other porcelain manufacturers, the Volkstedt Porcelain Manufactury faced challenges during the 20th century. Economic hardships, political changes, and the impact of World Wars I and II disrupted production and led to periods of decline. However, the company managed to survive and continued to produce porcelain, albeit on a smaller scale.
After World War II, the Volkstedt Porcelain Manufactury came under state ownership as part of the East German government's nationalization efforts. Following the reunification of Germany in 1990, the Volkstedt Porcelain Manufactury was privatized and went through a process of reestablishment. The company focused on reviving its historical designs, craftsmanship, and quality standards. Today, it continues to produce fine porcelain items, including limited edition collectibles and custom-made pieces.
Vulcanite
Discovered around 1839, Vulcanite was patented by Charles Goodyear in 1846. It is essentially a rubber compund that has been hardened by the addition of chemicals and heat.
It is mostly black in colour and was used as a substitute for jet, which is a fossilised wood, black in colour and similar to coal. Vulcanite items can be highly polished when manufactured, but over time they become dull and the black colour fades to a dark brown. The process is accelarated if the Vulcanite is contatnly exposed to strong light.
Vulcanite items will be moulded, whilst jet items are carved, and this difference can be used to distinguish between the two materials.
Because of their colour, both Vulcanite and jet were used for mourning jewellery.
As well as its use in jewellery, Vulcanite was also used for vesta cases, buttons, combs, fountain pens and in the manufacture of cameras.
Vung Tau Cargo
The Vung Tau wreck, named after the port near which it was discovered, was found by fishermen off the islands of Con Dao in the south of Vietnam, when they retrieved porcelain items that had caught in their nets.
Master mariner, Sverker Hallstrom who had good relations with the Vietnamese government, obtained the license to excavate the wreck after the Vietnam Salvage Corporation had carried out preliminary excavation, and Australian Michael Flecker directed the primary excavation for Hallstrom in 1991.
Experts surmised that the ship was bound from China to Batavia (now Jakarta) circa 1690, where the bulk of the ceramics would have been trans-shipped to a Dutch East India Company vessel for the onward voyage to Holland.
The salvage operation recovered over 48,000 ceramics items, mostly Kangxi blue-and-white porcelain, an impressive collection of white-ware, many pieces of provincial ware, and a wide variety of ship related artefacts.
Christie's auction house selected 28,000 pieces of porcelain for auction in Amsterdam, and the sale raised $US 7.3 million. A full representation of the ceramics and most of the artefacts were put on display in the Vung Tau Museum, whilst the remainder of the ceramics, mostly damaged to some extent, were divided between Hallstrom and the Vietnamese Government.
Vyse, Charles
Charles Vyse (1882-1971) is considered to be one of the key figures in the development of British studio pottery.
He was born in Staffordshire and apprenticed to Royal Doulton as a modeller in 1896 at the age of 14. He won a scholarship to the Royal College of Art in 1905 where he studied for the next 5 years, and in 1911 was elected a member of the Royal Society of British Sculptors. In 1912 he studied at the Camberwell School of Art.
In 1919, Vyse set up a studio with his wife Nell, in Cheyne Walk, London and they produced high-fired wares inspired by Chinese and Japanese ceramics, as well as a range of cast pottery figures of local characters. The studio was badly damaged by bombing in 1940 and Vyse became a modelling and pottery instructor at Farnham School of Art, while continuing to produce his own wares.
Since setting up his own studio, Vyse had exhibited annually at Walker's Gallery in Bond Street where many of his pots were sold, and this continued until 1963 when he retired