parasol handles

[bev]

Two parasol handles have been passed down to me. They belonged to a great aunt and come from the late 1800's. One is carved with leaves and flower buds (or seed pods?) and is marked on the handle end with a "45" which is very faded and did not photograph. The other is carved with chrysanthemums. Can anyone tell by the pics I am posting whether they are bone or ivory, any other info about them, and an approximate value. Any response will be appreciated.

[talesofthesevenseas]

When something that old is carved that intricately, it will usually be some type of ivory. Here is a section we created with photos of ivory and bone that will help you compare to your parasol handles. Look for a double, criss-crossing grain: http://www.antique-shop.com/forums/index.php?topic=6485.msg24511#msg24511

[bev]

Thanks for the response. It looks like both are ivory. Any suggestions on the best way to sell these? Would it be better to go through someone who specializes in them, or an auction site?

[KC]

I bet you are drooling over these Talesof!  (By the way, so nice to see you back!  Missed you and praying for you!)

Talesof is our parasol person on the forum! 

[Ipcress]

Could be Japanese. Very nice though.

You want a reputable auction house with live internet sales. These would be fetching a few hundred pounds in the UK.

[talesofthesevenseas]

Some places don't sell ivory, even antique, so you'll probably want to talk to a few different auction houses and see what their policies are and what their commission fees are.

[KC]

Bev are you located in the US on the east coast?

[bev]

Again, thanks for the responses and info. I am located in NW Arkansas, and am interested in selling. I would like to see them go to someone who will appreciate them rather than having them stored away for years (which is what I'll be doing with them!)

[KC]

Beautiful state.  Heading your way next month somewhere W of Conway on the Arkansas River!  Gorgeous state!

[Rauville]

Very nice pieces.

Anyone that is buying and/or selling ivory in the near future needs to read "Director's Order 210".
http://arttrak.blogspot.com/2014/03/endangered-species-act-directors-order.html

[Ipcress]

We have DEFRA and the 1947 rule. Specifically March 3rd.


I'm all for conservation but i don't know many elephants with birth certificates or hallmarks so the date seems a bit strange to me.