$923
Set of Cased Aluminum Cake Toppers, early 20th century, comprised of two sets of numerals 0-9, set into a two-tiered embossed leather and walnut display, ht. 6 1/4, toppers 6 and 4 in. Note: According to the consignor, this set was made by Charles Martin Hall (1863-1914), a prominent late 19th century chemist who invented a process for extracting aluminum from ore. Hall was one of the founders of Alcoa. Reportedly, he made this set of cake toppers for his sister Julia Brainerd Hall, also a prominent chemist who assisted Charles at Alcoa, but also a passionate baker. According to wikipedia, Charles built a house for Julia in Oberlin, New York, in 1901. She died in Rochester, New York in 1926. The consignor purchased this set at a garage sale in upstate New York about fifty years ago. Estimate $1,000-1,500 The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.
Auctioneer:
Skinner
Date:
2017-11-28
