Ziebarth's Auctions
Live Auction

Early Advertising & Antique Americana

Fri, May 29, 2026 11:00AM EDT
Lot 198

Late 19th-Century The Gem Cast Metal Sewing Companion with Original Trade Card, c. 1883

Estimate: $30 - $10,000

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,500 $100
$3,000 $250
$5,000 $1,000
$10,000 $2,500
$50,000 $5,000
A Victorian-era sewing tool organizer and its corresponding promotional trade card. The organizer is constructed of cast white metal with a frame featuring pierced scrollwork and floral motifs. The unit includes a hanging loop at the top, two integrated rings for thimbles or thread, and four hooks for hanging scissors and other notions. A rectangular inset pincushion is located in the lower central section of the frame. The lower horizontal bar of the metal frame is cast with the words THE GEM. The accompanying printed trade card is titled THE GEM Sewing Companion and describes the item as a place for scissors, thread, thimbles, needles, and pins. The card specifies the item was manufactured under Cook's patent in November 1883 and distributed by Wide Awake Agents. Approximately 4.75 inches H x 3.75 inches W.

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