Cire Collection

The wax model of the Duke of Wellington gazing at Napoleon, c. 1840 (wax & mixed media)
XJF331756 The wax model of the Duke of Wellington gazing at Napoleon, c.1840 (wax & mixed media) by.; Madame Tussauds, London; (add.info)

Science. Production of candles. Engraving in: Grands hommes et grands faits de l'industrie, France
3434769 Science. Production of candles. Engraving in: Grands hommes et grands faits de l'industrie, France, c.1880 (engraving); (add.info.: Sciences. Coll. Part. Science)

Fashionable people playing the parlour game of the candlestick base. "For a forfeit
FLO4677321 Fashionable people playing the parlour game of the candlestick base. "For a forfeit, one fool kisses a candlestick base which drips hot wax on a woman on a sofa

Mrs Colclough, studio fashion portraits. With description, Mrs Rex Colclough wears a magnificent dark blue cire satin gown from Idare which has a dull pink bodice and sash'

Portrait de Charlemagne, peint a la cire, conserve au Vatican (engraving)
3644982 Portrait de Charlemagne, peint a la cire, conserve au Vatican (engraving) by French School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Portrait de Charlemagne, peint a la cire)

Louis XIV en 1706 (chromolitho)
6005424 Louis XIV en 1706 (chromolitho) by French School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Louis XIV en 1706. Figure en cire executee d apres nature par Ant Benoist)

Roman writing materials 44 BC to AD 400
BAL15443 Roman writing materials 44 BC to AD 400 by Roman; Verulamium Museum, St.Albans, Hertfordshire, UK; (add.info.: Roman writing equipment including a metal stylus)

A model wearing a scarlet catsuit in gleaming cire by House of Ailish, £9
A model wearing a scarlet catsuit in gleaming cire by House of Ailish, £ 9. April 1970

Lady Anne Bridgeman by Madame Yevonde
Lady Anne Pamela Bridgeman (1913-2009) by Madame Yevonde. She was the daughter of the 5th Earl of Bradford. Seen here modelling a dress of black cire satin

Head Eros Unfinished Group Zeus 1902 Bronze 31. 5 x 20 x 22 cm
Head of Eros (From the Unfinished Group of Zeus and Eros), 1902, Bronze, 31.5 x 20 x 22 cm |, 3 x 13.5 x 16 cm base, casting stamp on the lower edge on reverse right: CIRE, C

Resting shepherdess 1918 bronze 42 x 38 x 41. 5 cm
Resting shepherdess, 1918, bronze, 42 x 38 x 41.5 cm, signed on the left base below: C. Burckhardt. Giesserstempel: CIRE, C

The high hat trend, 1960
A selection of hats with high crowns, fashionable in the early 1960s. Top left is an original Tyrolean hat, which, can be bought over the counter at the big department stores for a modest price

Fashion for September 1923
An attractive example of a autumn coat frock, showing an original decoration of black cire braid

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"Cire: A Glimpse into the World of Wax and Satin" Step back in time with a wax model from the 1840s, capturing the intense gaze of the Duke of Wellington as he faces off against Napoleon. This intricate creation, made from wax and mixed media, transports us to a pivotal moment in history. In another realm of artistry, Mrs Rex Colclough graces us with her presence in a magnificent dark blue cire satin gown. The dull pink bodice and sash add an elegant touch to this stunning ensemble by Idare. Studio fashion portraits like these allow us to appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship behind each garment. Lady Anne Bridgeman's portrait by Madame Yevonde showcases her timeless grace and poise. The use satin highlights her regal aura, reminding us that fashion has always been intertwined with self-expression. Margaret Rawlings, an acclaimed actress from yesteryears, captivates our attention in a Norman Hartnell evening gown crafted from white, pale blue, and dark blue cire satin. This exquisite piece exudes sophistication and glamour fit for any grand occasion. The art world also embraces cire as seen in engravings such as "Portrait de Charlemagne" preserved at the Vatican or "Louis XIV en 1706, " brought to life through chromolithography. These masterpieces demonstrate how wax can be transformed into lasting impressions. Delving deeper into history reveals Roman writing materials dating back thousands of years - evidence that even ancient civilizations recognized the versatility and durability of wax as a medium for communication. But it's not all about historical significance; modern-day fashion designers continue to push boundaries with innovative creations like scarlet catsuits made from gleaming cire fabric by House of Ailish. These bold designs remind us that creativity knows no limits when it comes to expressing oneself through clothing.