This is a superbly rare little sewing thimble that was made in England in the 18th century. It was made in the Bilston area of Southern Staffordshire, England circa 1760 to 1780. This tiny thimble is enamel over copper and was the English enamel factories version of the Meissen porcelain thimble. The central scene has a gilt vignetted border. Inside the cartouche we see a beautiful hand enameled scene of a pilgrim about to cross the river to the abbey. The turquoise blue reserve with raised white C scrolls is equally charming. The base bezel of metal, now dulled but once was gilded. The top indentations also white enameled. A seldom found sewing treasure outside of a museum. Housed in a later. circa 1930's fitted thimble box. A showpiece from the 18th century that makes a very special gift.

See similar 18th century examples from the renowned thimble collection Ann Blakeslee

Size: Height 0.75" (2 cm), diameter 0.75" (1.75 cm)

Condition: As you will be aware, enamel is a very delicate material and most genuine 18th century example will show blemishes, if enamel objects are dropped the fired vitreous glass surface cracks and shatters. Our example has a teeny ding to the top, scattered minor hairlines to the enamel. It also has a firing fault among the leaves of the tree, where an air bubble popped in the kiln. A few hairlines to the interior. All perfectly stable.

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