News-Antique.com - Sep 14,2010 - Last seen in public almost 20 years ago, Paul Fraser Collectibles are delighted to be handling the sale of the famous Pierrepoint Collection.
The longest serving hangman of Britain, Albert Pierrepoint (1905-1992), was preceded in his time as executioner by his uncle and his father.
This exceptional collection includes Plaster of Paris casts of Pierrepoint's face and both hands. The plaster casts have preserved an incredible level of detail; each facet of his countenance, each pore and wrinkle, are immortalised.
A delicate amber and ivory cigar holder is in very good condition and measures 3.2" in length. It comes with its original leather, silver velvet-lined, case, 3.5" long, which has some age marks to its exterior clasp. The item belonged to Henry A. Pierrepoint.
A fine silver watch chain worn by Albert, his father and his uncle, at hundreds of executions between 1900 and 1956 is also included in this superb collection.
Documents and photographs relating to Pierrepoint's term as executioner include: the "Memorandum of Conditions to which any Person acting as Executioner is required to conform"; a letter from the War Office; and photographs of the Pierrepoint men, Robert Fabian (Fabian of the Yard), John Ellis, and JRH Robertson (Assistant General to Albert).
An execution book and a large ledger feature the personal details of those hanged by Henry and Albert Pierrepoint, including, the calibre of their necks (ordinary, strong, muscular, etc). Some notable names are listed, including Lord Haw-Haw and Ruth Ellis.
A note on the last recorded hangings betrays the awareness that the last ever execution would be of great significance. Rather than have one man stand as the last executioner, two hangings took place at the same time and date, so that the legacy would be split in two, perhaps to divide its potency.
The Pierrepoint collection was last seen at Christies in 1992 where these items sold for in excess of £30,000. The collection has been held in private hands since 1992.
Further details and images please contact adrianroose@paulfrasercollectibles.com or telephone +44 (0) 117 933 9500
