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Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Masterpiece London 2012 is showcasing a one of a kind collection of rare and exquisite whimsical mechanical pencils

The KB Collection of Mechanical Pencils makes its debut at Masterpiece London 2012. 


A one-of-a-kind collection of rare, museum quality whimsical mechanical pencils.


The KB Collection of Pencils is an unrivalled collection of 600 individual masterpieces that have been hand crafted in a sensational array of designs that will make its public debut and Masterpiece London this summer. The collection has been amassed over 20 years by silver dealer Ken Bull and it epitomises the very best of whimsical British design with the majority of the pencils having been created by English manufacturer Sampson Mordan. However, alongside the quintessentially English pieces are some fine examples of American craftsmanship, with strong pieces created by Tiffany and Asprey. 




A pair of silver Mordan novelty pencils designed as duelling pistols with decorated grips.

A Tiffany & Co novelty sterling silver pencil styled as The Metropolitan Life Tower Building in New York. 


With the creation of the fountain pen in 1884, these beautiful mechanical pencils were crafted less and less, making them true emblems of a by-gone era. The KB Collection is an extensive and captivating example of such icons that will have great appeal to established collectors as well as first time buyers. From the budding fisherman who needs an appropriate pencil to note down the weights of his catch to the adventurer who needs a pencil that includes a compass to help him discover hidden corners of the globe, the KB Collection has a unique pencil for every endeavour – from sporting pencils to hardware pencils via figural pencils, regal pencils and fruit pencils. Each individual pencil, while being exquisite on their own, form an integral part of this collection; the most humble of pencils is presented next to the rarest and most ornately decorated. The importance of the collection as a whole is paramount. Ken Bull, creator of The KB Collection said: 

“Building this collection has been a real labour of love – I was fortunate enough to buy an extensive collection of pencils which has helped consolidate the KB Collection into what it is today and has formed the basis for the book. I am fascinated both by the astonishing craftsmanship and technical innovation shown by the Victorians who created a pencil for every profession or leisure pursuit; from the humble to incredibly intricate. I am honoured to be showcasing this collection at Masterpiece London this summer – it is the only place for such a collection as it exhibits only the best of the best of fine art and design. Its excellence lies in its wholeness – hence it is important that the collection remains together”.

A silver Mordan novelty pencil with a monkey and coconut. When the monkey moves on the slider to reach the coconut it activates the pencil mechanism. Length closed 80mm, open 90mm. 



This wonderful collection will be on sale at Masterpiece London from 28 June to 4 July, which takes place on the South Grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea.



Masterpiece London is no ordinary antiques fair, but a forum for distinctive design and aesthetic excellence. It showcases the best of best in fine and decorative arts with contemporary collectors’ items such as classic cars, fine wines, exquisite jewellery and contemporary design from around the world and will take place from 28 June – 4 July 2012 (with a Preview on 27 June) on the South Grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea, London SW3.

2012 Opening Times:


PREVIEW
Wednesday 27 June, 11.00-22.00

OPENING TIMES
Thursday 28 June, 11.00-21.00
Friday 29 June, 11.00-21.00
Saturday 30 June & Sunday 1 July, 11.00-19.00
Monday 2 July, 11.00-21.00
Tuesday 3 July, 11.00-18.00 followed by the Masterpiece Midsummer Party in support of CLIC Sargent 19.00-22.00
Wednesday 4 July, 11.00 – 21.00

2012 Ticket Prices:


Preview Ticket: £100 (US$160 approx) per person – limited availability
Public Ticket: £20 (US$30 approx) per person
Charity Party Ticket: £175 (US$235 approx) per person

2012 Box Office Details:


Tickets can be purchased online at www.masterpiecefair.com or by telephoning +44(0)20 7499 7470.
For the latest news and developments go to www.masterpiecefair.com, join our Facebook group
Masterpiece London or follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/#!/MasterpieceLndn

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