Sold: Milliner’s Leaf Molds

Presses used to create textured fabric leaves / bronze, iron / c. third quarter 19th century

Antique set of three milliner’s figural molds used to press textured leaves for decorating Victorian hats and creating silk flower arrangements, c. late 19th century. The exquisitely detailed molds are sculpture in their own right and have a beautiful aged patina. With their realistic textures, the presses would have produced silk leaves with a striking verisimilitude.

Condition

Very good antique condition. One of the presses retains its original wooden handle necessary for heating the iron component.

Measurements

Without handle, leaf alone: 2 inches tall
With handle: 8.5 inches long

Shipping

Free in the continental United States. If an international buyer, please contact me for a shipping estimate by clicking here.