Antique VegIv & Cow Bone Parasol Needle Case

Stanhope * Circa 1890s

The parasol was a very popular form for Victorian needle cases. This example has the body and handle carved of cow (bovine) bone* and the top is carved of vegetable ivory. The canopy has a diagonal carved design and the vegetable ivory has leaves carved around the sides. The turned handle has a Stanhope viewer with 6 views titled "A Souvenir of Hastings". At the bottom it says "From F. Herrmann's Toy & Fancy Warehouses. 46 Queen's Road & 57 George St, Hastings". The Stanhope is sharp and easy to read.

The bottom of the canopy has a fine crack that has been repaired. The condition is otherwise excellent and it screws together well. It measures 4 1/4" long. It was bought in England and dates to the late 19th century.

Vegetable ivory comes from the corozo or tagua nut of a South American palm tree and was a favorite with the Victorians. It has the hardness and texture of ivory and a warm honey color. The dark spots and ivory like grain are also natural features of this material.

*These items are made of bone from a domestic cow (bovine) and NOT from an endangered species or an ivory producing species.

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