More Pinchbeck Paperweights
One of the most interesting points to observe about the pinchbeck weights is that they are the product not of one art alone, but of several distinct arts. Combined in them is the work of the jeweler or chaser, the glass maker, and the miniature artist-each practicing an art which called for long experience and a high order of skill in itself.
What specific virtues and points of interest are worth noting in good examples of the pinchbeck weights?
What specific virtues and points of interest are worth noting in good examples of the pinchbeck weights?
| On the left is a pinchbeck gold weight which contains a
portrait of Queen Victoria. The Queen is portrayed in
natural colors, which are not laid flat upon the background but upon
contours raised in high relief. The name "Victoria" appears in pinchbeck
gold against a background of royal scarlet. This weight not only makes
excellent use of the pinchbeck metal, but it incorporates a beautiful
miniature painting as well. The entire composition is one of unusual
charm and rarity.
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| Another of the pinchbeck class has a complete gold setting This gold is applied over a carved wooden mold, as in the former weights, but without a trace of any added color. They have the same form of glass on top and a pewter base which invariably is covered with red velvet, now worn by age, of the same style that appears sometimes on the smaller colored weights.
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The gold subjects usually portray people, and some are even copies of
noted paintings. The contour of these weights resembles a bit of fine
Swiss carving, and as you closely examine one you are given the
impression of a beautiful gold relief plaque.
Each of these weights is unique. No two are alike, although this is not to say positively that duplicates may not occur. Their uniqueness, of course, goes far in accounting for their interest to collectors.
Each of these weights is unique. No two are alike, although this is not to say positively that duplicates may not occur. Their uniqueness, of course, goes far in accounting for their interest to collectors.
