Galleria Spinelli Brass Vase

Q: Can you tell me what this is? It is marked on the bottom: GALLERIA SPINELLI ROMA and a hallmark. Thank you. A: You have of a brass vase made in the Galleria Spinelli studios in Rome, Italy. This studio might have a connection to the artist Gaetano Spinelli (1877-1945), but he was active primarily […]

Brass Heat Register

Q:  I am wondering about this piece I have. I think it is a brass plant stand top, but I’m not sure. Do you know what it is, and do you think it has any value? A:  You will be delighted to know that what you thought is a brass plant stand top is actually […]

Polishing Brass, Inside and Outside

Lemon oil is a good polish for brass inside the house. After polishing brass kept outdoors, use a thin coat of paste wax to protect the shine.

 

 

Tavern Candlesticks

Q: I have a pair of antique brass pub candlesticks from the 1900s. They have the drip hole, bells, and drip plate and are 12 inches tall. Can you provide pricing for me should I want to sell on my own?

A: Brass candlesticks with bells are often called “tavern candlesticks” because they were used in taverns in the 1800s to provide light and to call for more to drink. At least that’s the story most sellers give. However, many were made in the mid-twentieth century. Old brass candlesticks in good condition and interesting details can sell for a few hundred dollars. Many modern versions sell for $60 to $75 dollars a pair. If you have provenance that can prove the age of the candlesticks, or if there is a maker’s mark on the bottom, they might sell for more.

Bell Collection

Q: I’m 80 years old, so I’m cleaning out my attic. I have several small bells and have no idea where they came from. I think they are brass. They have etched decoration. Can you tell me anything about them? Are they junk or something to be handed down (to whomever may want them)? Are they from some other country? Anything you can tell me would be appreciated.

A: These look like the brass bells made in India that are often sold as souvenirs. Bells have been made of brass, bronze, pewter, silver, glass, porcelain, wood, and other materials in many different shapes and sizes. The American Bell Collectors is an organization for collectors, manufacturers, researchers, and anyone else interested in bells. They have a magazine, a website (americanbell.org), and hold an annual convention. These bells are fairly common and not very expensive. Some sell for $10, others for $30. If made by an important company, a collector would pay more.