Rare Japanned Thomason Corkscrew–Gold Leaf Intact

Rare Japanned Thomason Corkscrew–Gold Leaf Intact

Offered is this extremely rare Thomason corkscrew with japanned floral decoration. This is a virtual twin to the one that graces the cover of the venerable Watney & Babbidge “Corkscrews for Collectors” and color place XIV. That example is now in the Musée du Tire-Bouchon in Ménerbes, France (see www.domaine-citadelle.com/en/le-musee ). The handle on this example is rosewood or mahogany. Both the hanging ring and brush appear original.

Although the lacquer japanning process originated in Asia as a decorative coating for pottery, furniture, etc., it soon made its way into Europe. Its popularity grew steadily and by the late 17th century the technique was being described in English manuals and other treatises and applied by artisans and craftsmen.

I consider this example to be in excellent condition.  The gold leaf decoration is crisp and appears virtually 100% intact and the black japanned finish shows only minor wear around the lower and upper rim high spots.  The wire helix is original, straight and sharp.

See photos and Watney & Babbidge, “Corkscrews For Collectors”, cover and color plate XIV. (Also, see listing #3344 for a similar example of a japanned Thomason, though that piece retained little of its gold leaf decoration.)

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Please ask any questions before bidding at wirehelix@yahoo.com

Payment, Postage and Insurance
All Buyers---Please DO NOT PAY until you have received your invoice with payment instructions

U.S. and Canadian Buyers----Payment by check or money order preferred. Buyers to pay postage, Delivery Confirmation and insurance (if desired). If possible, shipping will be by Flat Rate Priority box unless requested or required otherwise because of size and/or weight. Flat Rate box rates vary depending on size of box required. If containers other than the USPS Flat Rate boxes are required, postage is by weight and can vary accordingly. If you need shipping and/or insurance cost estimates, just let me know. Registered Mail is also available for an additional cost for more valuable item.

Other International Buyers---Please DO NOT PAY until you have received your invoice. For shipping costs---please inquire since international shipping costs vary widely depending on destination, weight, size of box and value. I will do my best to provide as accurate an estimate as possible prior to actual shipment.

All Buyers: Please do not pay until you have received my invoice. It will be emailed as quickly as possible after the auction.

Please email any questions before bidding at wirehelix@yahoo.com

I consider this example to be in excellent condition.  The gold leaf decoration is crisp and appears virtually 100% intact and the black japanned finish shows only minor wear around the lower and upper rim high spots.  The wire helix is original, straight and sharp.