Bidspirit auction | ca. 1870. Anonymous. Volume II

ca. 1870. Anonymous. Volume II - O to W: A Folio Manuscript Collection of European Royal and Noble Seal Impressions. - This large-format folio manuscript album is an extensive 19th-century compilation dedicated to sigillography, containing an expansive collection of mounted wax and plaster seal impressions. The volume is meticulously organized by European geographical and noble houses, with prominent sections for Oestreich (Austria), Parma, Pfalzgrafen bei Rhein, Pohlen (Poland), Portugall, Pomern (Pomerania), Reuss, Russland (Russia), Sachsen (Saxony), Sardinien (Savoyen), Schlesien (Silesia), Schweden (Sweden), Spanien (Spain), Schweiz (Switzerland), Toscana (Tuscany), and Wuertemberg. Each mounted seal is accompanied by a detailed identification written in 19th-century German Kurrent script, providing the name of the ruler, spouse, or administrative entity and specific historical dates. The chronological scope of the impressions spans from the mid-16th century to the late 19th century, with notable entries including Maximilian II (1573), Maria Theresa (1745), Catherine the Great, and Nicholas I (1850). The seals are rendered in red, black, and cream wax or plaster, featuring intricate heraldic designs, armorial shields, and state insignia. The volume represents a significant scholarly reference of European heraldry and diplomatics from the period. Large state seals: 3.5 to 4 inches in diameter Small signet seals: Under 1 inch in diameter Volume format: Folio. The binding is in poor condition; the quarter-leather spine is almost entirely perished with extensive loss to the outer covering, exposing the underlying boards and stitching. The marbled paper boards exhibit heavy rubbing, scuffing, and significant wear at the corners and edges. Internally, the heavy paper and board leaves are toned with moderate foxing throughout. The seal collection remains largely intact, although many wax impressions show visible cracking, surface fractures, and minor losses to the edges consistent with the age of the materials.