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tline3open  Somebody famous?

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Author Topic:   Somebody famous?
Paul Lemieux

Posts: 1792
Registered: Apr 2000

iconnumber posted 07-05-2007 08:14 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for Paul Lemieux     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
This is an unusual c. 1895 silver-plated buckle (although almost all of the plating has worn off). It is set with either a tinted photo or a colored print of a lady with blonde hair and a voluminous pink outfit. The image is under a protective clear celluloid cover, so I can't tell if it is a print or actual photo. The number "187" is inscribed along the bottom edge of the image. I have never been able to decide if this depicts a popular figure (such as an actress or singer of the day), or if it is just a sentimental piece with the portrait of a loved one. To me, the style of the portrait seems closer to a glamor/publicity shot. But then again, would somebody wear a buckle containing the image of a celebrity?

Does anybody have suggestions about this buckle? Has anybody out there seen a similar piece?

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Dale

Posts: 2132
Registered: Nov 2002

iconnumber posted 07-05-2007 10:21 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for Dale     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
My guess would be this is a piece of mourning jewelry. The picture appears to be semi-religious.

Is there a makers mark on the piece? AFAIK most of the major silverplate firms did not make much jewelry, because jewelry does not lend itself to mass production.

I have seen a few similar items: celluloid pictures set into powder jars, mirrors and brushes. And on handles of makeup puffs. Generally, the makers of these are not clearly understood. The practice became more standardized in the 20's, but earlier examples do exist.

What size is this? What do the connections look like?

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Dale

Posts: 2132
Registered: Nov 2002

iconnumber posted 07-10-2007 11:49 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for Dale     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
On relection, I suspect this is Lilian Gish at the begining of her acting career. Gish was a very popular actress for at least 80 years.

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Scott Martin
Forum Master

Posts: 11520
Registered: Apr 93

iconnumber posted 07-11-2007 09:06 AM     Click Here to See the Profile for Scott Martin     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
I don't think it is Lillian Gish. Its a good thought, but who?

    Lillian Gish

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Ulysses Dietz
Moderator

Posts: 1265
Registered: May 99

iconnumber posted 08-09-2007 09:45 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for Ulysses Dietz     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Believe it or not, I met Lillian Gish when I was in high school (and she was in her 80s, and still totally charming). I don't think that's her. I was hoping for Sarah Bernhardt, but no. I don't think it's a mourning piece, but a sweetheart picture.

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Paul Lemieux

Posts: 1792
Registered: Apr 2000

iconnumber posted 08-23-2007 04:34 PM     Click Here to See the Profile for Paul Lemieux     Edit/Delete Message   Reply w/Quote
Upon closer inspection, this looks more like a print than an actual photograph. So maybe it is some mediocre actress that history has forgotten.

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