I guess we’re going through an Empire comb phase. ;-) An Empire tiara top, hinged to either a shell or celluloid comb, is being auctioned on E-bay for 185 GBP at the moment. Does anyone think it looks like a married piece? The tiara is gorgeous. I see the 4 bidders on the board. They have feedback scores of 9, 15, 0, and 35. Someone is using a new account, or they are beginners. I will be interested to see if a new or experienced collector wins this.
UPDATE: Someone with a 342-feedback score outbid a newcomer with 9, and the married piece sold for $1500. The newcomer bid 14 times. The seller was absolutely honest. Unless the buyer already has the correct metal bottom, the seller won E-bay’s psychology game huge on this auction. I have to give the seller a “fair play.”
I’ve been watching this, too, simply to see who comes out with it. And, with you, was surprised at the early bids on what you would normally expect to find with a large group of watchers not wanting to “tip their hand,” so to speak. A little odd….
The seller did mention in the description that the top had probably been remounted to a different comb. So upfront on that issue; didn’t know the material, though….
I’m more an art deco kinda gal, but still appreciate beauty and craftsmanship, regardless the era, design or materials. This is going to be a wonderful treat for some lucky soul!
Peggy, $1500!