Heirloom Brushes Appraisal

Pair of Antique Silverplated Dresser Brushes

This is a pair of antique dresser brushes, likely from a vanity or dressing table set, featuring elaborate repoussé or chased silverplated metalwork on their backs and handles. Both brushes exhibit highly ornate floral and scroll motifs in a Rococo Revival or Art Nouveau transitional style, suggesting an estimated age from the late 19th to early 20th century. The brush on the left is rectangular with rounded corners, showcasing a central cartouche or shield-like area that appears to be unengraved, surrounded by swirling acanthus leaves, flowers, and vines. The brush on the right has a more traditional oval head and a distinctly shaped handle that widens and then tapers, also adorned with extensive floral and foliate patterns. The material for both is silverplated metal, indicated by the typical tarnishing and reflective quality. The bristles appear to be natural boar or badger bristles, light brown in color, and show some signs of wear and unevenness, particularly on the left brush where they seem somewhat splayed. The metalwork on both brushes displays a significant patina of age, with dark areas of tarnish accumulating in the recesses of the intricate designs, enhancing their three-dimensional quality. There are visible scuffs, scratches, and potentially some areas of wear to the plating, which are consistent with age and regular use. No specific maker's marks or signatures are discernable from the provided images, but the quality of the repoussé work indicates a good level of craftsmanship. The brushes would have been part of a larger set, possibly including a mirror, comb, and other accessories, and are indicative of opulent personal grooming items from their era. The overall condition suggests they are well-preserved antiques with characterful signs of their history.