In a few weeks, you’ll have the chance to take home a slice of imperial and royal nostalgia: the Dorotheum is auctioning off some very personal belongings of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elisabeth. Some items are also apparently affordable to mere mortals, such as a handkerchief with an embroidered imperial crown by Franz Joseph. For Sissi’s handkerchief, on the other hand, you have to dig deeper into your pocket… Even bizarre things like the emperor’s foot wash cup go under the hammer.
On June 14, lovers of the Austrian monarchy have the opportunity to buy a piece of the Imperial Family. The hundreds of objects in the “Kaiserhaus & Historika” auction include not only a collection of images, statues and busts, but also highly personal items by Sissi and Franz.
For example, Emperor Franz Joseph’s tortoiseshell glasses can be bought at auction – a recent measurement found that he needed three diopters. Crockery, such as exquisite cutlery and fine beer glasses, are also offered at the auction, as are Franz Joseph and his Sissi’s foot wash cups.
The imperial couple’s handkerchiefs also change hands. While a copy of Franz Joseph is estimated to be worth 300 to 600 euros, that of Elisabeth is estimated at 1600 euros. One particularly rare piece is a children’s dress worn by the Empress — clothing from early childhood is very rarely preserved, the Dorotheum explained.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
