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Sold for: £38
A collection of vintage novelty and decorative table lighters in various materials including ceramic, cast metal, wood, and composite plastics. The assortment features several replica flintlock and percussion pistols mounted on wooden stands, a large brass style bullet lighter on a wooden plinth, and a dark glazed ceramic horse head styled as a chess knight. Notable pieces include two blue glazed ceramic vessels bearing the cursive mark Colibri above the text IRISH PORCELAIN and MADE IN U.K. A green glazed vessel is stamped I.O.M. POTTERY with an internal lighter mechanism marked POPPEL, MADE IN W. GERMANY, and BRIT. PAT. NO. 901035. The lot also contains a copper toned seated deity figure with a spiked head and an enamelled crest, which hinges open to reveal the lighter mechanism. A metal table lighter base features a black plastic dial embossed with the name RONSON. Other items include a spherical black lighter with a gilded band and handle, a square ceramic lighter with a transfer printed mallard duck motif, and a fluted metallic glazed vessel.
Condition report:
The collection shows signs of age and use throughout, with a general accumulation of surface dust and light tarnishing to the metal components across the group (photo 1). The copper toned deity figure displays wear to the enamelled crest and general surface patination (photo 2). Verdigris is visible on the internal mechanism of the horse head lighter (photo 9) and the underside of the Ronson example (photo 13). The replica pistols exhibit wear to the painted finishes and localized tarnishing to the metal barrels (photos 4 and 5). The ceramic components appear generally intact, though the fluted vessel shows minor surface scuffing to the base (photo 8). The internal mechanisms of all lighters are untested and sold as found; some appear to be missing flint or fuel components.
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