Sally Antiques

17/06/2026

For our gun enthusiasts, we've just added something new to the website:
👉 An iconic Israeli IMI U*I, deactivated to current UK specification

Would you like to see some real handling videos of this U*I?
Let us know in the comments. 👇

13/06/2026

Power, status, and symbolism, all carved into stone.

This hand carved nephrite jade figure shows an Emperor holding a sceptre, a traditional symbol of authority and leadership.

Crafted in the Ming style, it reflects a long Chinese tradition in which jade was valued even more highly than gold for its beauty, durability, and cultural significance.

For centuries, jade was closely associated with prestige, virtue, and the imperial court.

A remarkable piece of craftsmanship, and a fascinating look into Chinese artistic tradition.

11/06/2026

Not every piece of wartime equipment was designed to fight.

This British Anti Gas Ointment tin was issued alongside the Service Respirator and carried in a soldier's gas mask haversack.

The ointment was intended to help protect exposed skin against blister agents in the event of a chemical attack, a reminder of how seriously gas warfare was still feared during the WW2.

09/06/2026

07/06/2026

Before memes, there was Old Bill.

Created by Bruce Bairnsfather during the First World War, Old Bill became one of the most recognisable characters of the era.

With his famous walrus moustache and dry sense of humour, he represented the ordinary British soldier and quickly became a familiar face both on and off the battlefield.

This video was inspired by several Old Bill items currently in our collection, including a brass motorcycle mascot and period ceramic plates.

🏺 History told through objects.

05/06/2026

Before a film appeared on your screen, it had to catch your eye on a wall.

This original artwork was created by renowned illustrator Renato Fratini for the 1968 film Isadora.

Long before digital marketing and movie trailers on social media, posters like this played a vital role in attracting audiences to the cinema.

Fratini was one of the most celebrated poster artists of his generation. His ability to create the illusion of incredible detail with surprisingly loose brushwork made his posters instantly recognisable.

👉 Available on our website with much more story details
👉 Link in bio

04/06/2026

These Ross 10x70 binoculars were some of the largest used by the British Navy during WWII.

At around 4kg, they were usually mounted on a tripod and became known as the "Captain's Sight".

A remarkable piece of British naval history.

03/06/2026

The Walther P38 was introduced as Germany's new service pistol during the Second World War and went on to become one of the most recognisable military sidearms of the conflict.

This particular example was produced in 1942 by Spreewerk, identified by the wartime manufacturer code "cyq". During the war, factories often used coded markings rather than their full names.

Unlike the earlier Luger, the P38 was designed to be quicker and more economical to manufacture while remaining reliable in the field.

Presented with a post war holster, this is a fascinating piece of Second World War military history and one of the most iconic pistols of the era.

03/06/2026

There is something timeless about a busy Mediterranean harbour.

This framed etching was created by W. L. Wyllie, one of Britain's most respected maritime artists. His work captured ships, ports and coastal life with remarkable attention to detail, bringing scenes like this to life on paper.

Looking at this piece, it is easy to imagine the movement of people, the arrival of ships and the daily activity that once filled harbours across the Mediterranean.

It offers a connection to a world that has changed, yet still feels familiar today.

👉 see in the comments the link if you want ti read more

02/06/2026

This model captures a winter scene from ww2.

A German Sd.Kfz. 7/1 half-track stands ready while soldiers scan the sky for enemy aircraft.

The real vehicle carried four 20mm anti-aircraft guns and was built to protect troops from air attacks.

What makes pieces like this so interesting is their ability to bring history to life. A few figures, some snow, and a vehicle are enough to transport us back to a completely different moment in time.

🏺 History told through objects.