A Liver Bird brooch with remarkable links to Liverpool history has been discovered by Wilson 55 Auctions.
Consigned to Wilson 55 Auctions 17th June Fine Jewellery & Watches Auction is a Liver Bird brooch formerly owned by a Lady Mayoress of Liverpool. Inherited by our vendor, this fantastic piece created by Alabaster & Wilson is offered with an estimate of £300-400.
Miss Margaret Hall was the daughter of the Lord Mayor of Liverpool Robert John Hall. From 1935-6, she was the Lady Mayoress of the city. With a clear affinity to the city that she served for that year, this Liver Bird brooch was commissioned following her stint as Lady Mayoress of Liverpool.
Realistically cast in a beautiful bi-colour design, this historical piece was designed by leading Birmingham jewellers Alabaster & Wilson and retailed by Boodle & Dunthorne. Our brooch is hallmarked for 1943, and appears to have been commissioned as a bespoke order for Margaret Hall, still with its original box. In keeping with restrictions placed on manufacturers during World War Two and for the following years, the piece is modelled in 9ct gold.
As seen in the images of original sketches kindly provided on behalf of Alabaster & Wilson, Liver Bird brooches were produced nearly ten years following this first piece, from 1952 onwards, to be stocked and sold by Boodle & Dunthorne.
These later sketches by Bernard Howell display a variety in the design, with enamel, ruby and monogram detailing. Perhaps following this order by Margaret, through the 1950s it was decided to present similar pieces to other retirees, Mayoresses or even wives of Mayors. The variations in patterns offer a fascinating insight into the design process, and personalisation of the Liver Bird brooch.
A unique, historical and trailblazing piece used to commemorate a year of service to Liverpool, this fascinating brooch will be offered for sale on Thursday 17th June.
For further information contact Liz Bailey MA FGA DGA via liz.bailey@wilson55.com.
