Antiques: From a sword to crystal chandeliers and a dictionary

Des O'Sullivan previews the diverse items that will spark interest among collectors

This 19th century giltwood and gesso mirror is at the James Adam At Home sale in Dublin.

Sat, 04 Jul, 2020 - 10:00

Des O’Sullivan

Robert Erskine Childers' naval officer's sword at Mullen's Collector's Cabinet sale.

WITHIN weeks of smuggling guns from Germany to the Irish Volunteers on board the Asgard in 1914 Robert Erskine Childers was called up. His call-up papers were delivered directly to the headquarters of the Irish Volunteers. The author of The Riddle of the Sands became a decorated British naval officer. His sword in gilt brass and leather scabbard is lot 91 at Mullen's Collector's Cabinet auction in Bray next Saturday (July 11). Engraved "RE Childers" it is estimated at €3,000-€5,000.