A large and diverse assortment of approximately 130 commemorative and souvenir thimbles, accompanied by four matching wall-hanging display cases. The collection primarily consists of bone china and ceramic thimbles featuring various transfer-printed designs and gilt rims. The subject matter includes British topographical scenes, historical sites, and local interest themes. Notable inscriptions include Smeaton’s Tower – Plymouth, Clovelly, Buckingham Palace, London, and a Baden-Powell London Scout-themed piece. Other examples feature titles such as Anniversary of the Irish Armada 1588-1988, The Otter, Tom Cobley, and Billy Bray Three Eyes Chapel Cornwall. A novelty black thimble is inscribed Nevagissey By Night, and another thimble is made of a pewter-toned metal with a dimpled surface. The collection also features several glass novelty pieces shaped like wrapped boiled sweet candies in various colours. Several thimbles bear internal printed marks reading Bone China Made in England. One piece retains a retail tag from Plymouth Dome. The four matching cases are constructed from dark-stained wood with hinged glazed doors and mirrored interior backs. Each case is divided into a twenty-compartment grid.
Condition report:
The collection is in very good overall condition, consistent with long-term display. There is minor wear to some of the gilt rims. The glazed doors and mirrored interiors of the display cases are intact. Some thimbles have shifted within their compartments. No significant chips, cracks, or repairs are visible to the ceramic or glass components.
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