Since its inception in 1953 by Hugh Hefner, PLAYBOY magazine has been synonymous with not just glamour and the celebration of the female form, but also with cutting-edge journalism and literary contributions. Among its most notable collaborations is with Ian Fleming’s James Bond, which not only elevated the magazine’s cultural […]
Other News
Bonhams Celebrates Chinese Heritage with Prestigious Fine Art Auction
London is abuzz with excitement as Bonhams prepares to host a remarkable auction dedicated to Fine Chinese Art on May 16th, 2024. The auction will spotlight a collection of 170 extraordinary lots, promising a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Chinese history and craftsmanship. Headlining the auction is a […]
Charbens Circus Figures and Sets
Whilst looking at items to write a feature on Circus Collectables, I came across the delightful range of Circus miniatures created by Charbens. Many people recognise the name Britains and their miniatures but apart from keen collectors, Charbens is not a too familiar. In this feature we will take a […]
A Short History of Half Dolls
They have a variety of names – pincushion dolls, tea-cosie dolls and dresser dolls… and there are those also known as ‘tops’, ‘pin heads’ or ‘whisk-broom’ dolls. Generally they are referred to as Half Dolls… but whatever name may be dubbed, they all have one thing in common.
King Penguin Books Checklist and History
King Penguin Books Checklist and History – The King Penguin book series, a pioneering initiative by Penguin Books, was launched in 1939 with “British Birds on Lake River and Stream” by Phyllis Barclay-Smith. Drawing inspiration from the high-quality illustrated books of the past, the series became known for its distinctive […]
The Art Deco Ceramics of Primavera
Primavera, founded in 1912 by René Guilleré and André Mare, the French design studio affiliated with the prestigious Parisian department store Au Printemps, was a cornerstone in the evolution of French decorative arts. Situated at the cusp of tradition and modernism, the company thrived by integrating established French decorative techniques […]
Nugget Boot Polish Enamel Signs Price Guide
Established in 1898 by Paul Fitte and H. C. Lane in Kennington, London, England, the Nugget Polish Company swiftly emerged as a leading boot and shoe polish shoe care company. There range of proved very popular, especially overseas in Australia and New Zealand. Nugget Polish joined forces with the esteemed […]
Conway Stewart Dinkie Fountain Pen information and price guide
The Conway Stewart Dinkie pen, a hallmark of British pen-making, emerged as a compact yet fully functional fountain pen. Released in the early 1920s, the Dinkie quickly became one of Conway Stewart’s most enduring products, maintaining its popularity throughout its fifty-year production span. We take a brief look at the […]
Strawberry Shortcake Dolls a short history
Toy boxes suddenly started to smell delicious in 1980! Delicious fruity scents of cherry, lemon, raspberry, blueberry, lime and – most of all – strawberry filled our homes. Here was a toy we really didn’t mind buying for our children. The perfume drifted from a series of dolls, of various […]
Swarovski Unveils Alice in Wonderland Tea Party Limited Edition
Swarovski has once again captured the hearts of luxury collectors and fairy tale enthusiasts alike with its latest release, the “Alice in Wonderland Tea Party” Limited Edition. Priced at £16,000, this exquisite piece is not just a collectible but a vibrant celebration of storytelling and the enchanting world of Lewis […]















