A sterling silver easel back photograph frame made in the form of a life preserver and an anchor. This is as exceptional, not to mention early, an example of a nautical themed photograph frame one is likely to find. Simple in design, but masterfully made. The frame element is a life preserver with hand braided silver wire rope detailing wrapping around it, and the easel back being a beautifully shaped anchor. Another wonderful, and totally original detail to the frame is the bale at the top of the anchor. This allows the piece to leave a desk and be hung on a wall once the boat leaves port. The link itself is totally original and has its original English assay mark stamped on it. This frame has full English assay marks on it, dating it from 1896. This Victorian piece is unusual to contain, what went on to become known as, a 'life preserver'. Originally developed by Norwegian sailors, it was only when organisations like Britain's Royal National Lifeboat Institution started using life preservers that their use became widespread. By 1855 the the institution was using the Kisbee ring, a type of ring buoy invented by Lt. Thomas Kisbee, and a cork life belt, invented by Navy Cmdr. J.R. Ward in 1854. So, the frame of the ring here would have been a form of a 'Kisbee Ring'. The frame was made in Birmingham, England by the silversmiths Albert Cohen & Charles Solomon trading as Cohen & Charles & Co.. They were silversmiths of note who produced a catalog of beautiful pieces of silver up until the late 1960's. The frame is in excellent condition, all original and bearing a number of hallmarks thought the piece, along with a registration mark. This is always good to see as these tended to only be added to finer pieces. This is the perfect piece for a summer home, or even aboard a boat, especially due to the fact it can be hung in times of choppier water. There are a few small dents through, and where the bale folds into the frame when in the easel position. However, none detract from the piece and are evidence of its over its nearly one hundred and twenty five year life!
