Embroidery Scissors Appraisal

Vintage Sewing Pin Cushion and Crane Shaped Sewing Scissors

This lot features a vintage sewing pin cushion alongside a pair of crane-shaped sewing scissors, presented against a plain white background. The pin cushion is circular and appears to be made of a textured, olive-green or dark chartreuse fabric, possibly velvet or a similar plush material. It has a tufted, pumpkin-like design with visible indentations creating segments, and is generously embellished with numerous small white, cream, and silver pins or beads, some scattered and some forming patterns. Many pins are still inserted into the cushion, indicating its prior use. The edge of the pin cushion is encircled by a braided or woven metallic trim, likely in a gold or brass tone. The scissors are distinctive, featuring handles crafted in the likeness of a crane or stork, with the bird's head and neck forming one handle and its body and tail forming the other. The metal appears to be an antiqued silver-tone, possibly stainless steel or another alloy with an aged finish, and exhibits intricate detailing on the bird's feathers and features. The blades are slender and sharp, typical of embroidery or needlework scissors. Both items show signs consistent with their age and use, such as minor wear on the fabric of the pin cushion and potential slight tarnishing on the scissors, contributing to their vintage appeal. The overall aesthetic suggests a mid-20th century or earlier style, indicative of handcraft tools from an era when such items were often decorative as well as functional. The craftsmanship of the crane scissors is particularly notable for its artistic design.