The art of Calligraphy and good penmanship was in the past a symbol of presentation and importance. While this is less essential for day-to-day correspondence today, important personal messages such as greeting cards, love notes, and wedding invitations are still conveyed and delivered by hand.
These messages, although not frequent and being personal in nature, are a symbol of human connection and affection and remind us that there is still a charm to the art of writing and receiving tangible notes; reflected in the popularity of luxury commodities such as hand-crafted paper, precious metal letter openers, sealing waxes, and good quality pens.
A GEORG JENSEN STERLING SILVER LETTER OPENER
PATTERN ‘196’
Estimate $800-1,200
Companies of prestige such as Mont Blanc and Georg Jensen continue to attract buyers with well-designed and crafted utensils, each bearing a unique or timeless design whether it be a classic fountain pen, sterling silver letter opener or limited-edition ball point pen with a 14k gold nib.
Our forthcoming auction, A Connoisseurs Collection, showcases several luxury items for writing enthusiasts including a handsome George I walnut bureau (lot 20), A Georg Jensen sterling silver and carnelian letter opener (lot 59) and two Mont Blanc fountain pens with accessories (lot 70).
Personally, I have recently rekindled my lost relationship with writing and the charm of paper correspondence. In the process of taking calligraphy lessons and procuring my own set of sealing wax and handmade paper, I look forward to setting time aside to produce a thoughtful letter.
Chiara Curcio, Head of Decorative Arts
June 2021