Sale 318

The "DuBois" Collection
of New Zealand Chalon Heads of 1855-1872


New Zealand
 
 
Lot Photo Description
Lot 2001
P
Die proof of the original Chalon Head essay by Perkins, Bacon & Co. engraved by William Humphreys, half-length portrait with engine-turned background and ornamental circular surround in black on wove paper, 96 x 77mm, showing complete die sinkage, Extremely Fine and exquisite example of engraving.
Estimate 5,000 - 7,500

The first stamps of New Zealand are notable for their beautiful classical design, which incorporates the half-length portrait of Queen Victoria based on the full-length portrait by Alfred Edward Chalon, R.A. Printed by Perkins, Bacon & Co., the stamps were engraved by William Humphrys.

There are approximately six examples of the Chalon head essay known. This is one of the larger margined examples. Interestingly, the Bartrop collection (Robson Lowe, October 24, 1984, lot 1009) contained a similar type essay, which differed in that there were no dividing circular lines between the portrait and the surrounding engine turning.

View details and enlarged photo
Lot 2002
P
Die proof of 6d in black on card, 1mm margins all around, light horizontal crease in card not through to front, Very Fine.
Estimate 2,000 - 3,000

Expertization: signed Holcombe.
View details and enlarged photo
Lot 2003
P
Plate proofs of 1d, 2d, and 1/- in black on wove paper, the 1/- shows noticeable burring at sides where the impression was strengthened, showing all the fine detail of the engine-turning background, Very Fine.
Estimate 300 - 400
View details and enlarged photo