113 - Miniature Travel Shrine, "zushi"

Miniature Travel Shrine, "zushi" Japan Without base Wood, gilded. H (figure): 14 cm. - H (shrine): 18 cm. W (shrine): 7 cm. Provenance: - Irène (1921–1996) and Kurt (1912–1989) Gaugler, Wilderswil. - Urs Gaugler (1945–2022), Aargau. - Swiss private collection, Aargau. Irène Gaugler (1921–1996), daughter of the Pforzheim jewelry manufacturer E. Herrmann, founded the international girls’ school “Sunny Dale” in Adelboden in 1949 with her first husband, Dr. Kurt Gaugler (1912–1989). The institute, which specialized in languages, general education, and business subjects, was relocated in 1954 to Villa Unspunnen in Wilderswil near Interlaken. After the couple separated in the 1960s, Irène continued to run the institute. Villa Unspunnen now serves as a retreat center. The provenance of the object is biographically linked to the Gaugler family and the collector Ulrich Frey (1934–2019). The latter, who was married to Irène Gaugler-Herrmann in his later years, bequeathed a collection of 35 works of art from Papua New Guinea and Peru to the Museum Rietberg in Zurich in 2019. In contrast to this bequest, the lot offered here remained in the family and was passed down within the family. Shortly before her death in 1996, Irène Gaugler gave it to her son, Urs Gaugler. After his death in 2022, it passed into the possession of his wife. CHF 300 / 600 Weight in grams: 135 Condition: Hammer Auctions places great importance on providing a careful and as precise as possible description of all lots offered in the catalog. Each lot is documented with multiple photographs intended to provide as comprehensive an impression as possible of its condition. This includes, in particular, visible signs of wear, irregularities, and age-related changes. We recommend that all interested parties and bidders carefully examine the photographs before placing a bid, as they form an essential part of the lot description. In addition, we recommend viewing the items in person before the auction, if possible. All condition descriptions are provided to the best of our knowledge and belief and are based on our professional assessment. They are provided for informational purposes only and do not claim to be exhaustive. In particular, there may be age- or use-related characteristics that are neither explicitly mentioned nor visible in the photographs. Hammer Auctions assumes no liability for unintentional errors or omissions in the condition descriptions to the extent permitted by law. However, we always strive to resolve any ambiguities or concerns in a transparent, fair, and straightforward manner. Should a lot deviate in material respects from its catalog description, Hammer Auctions offers a return option in accordance with the following provisions. Buyers may report such a deviation in writing within seven (7) calendar days of receiving the lot. If the complaint is justified, the lot may be returned by mutual agreement. The purchase price will be refunded in full upon receipt and inspection of the returned item. We are always happy to assist you personally with any questions, additional photographs, or further information.