Silver
423 a missorium for the peace
2014 unsold
On November 29 in Paris, Pierre Bergé & Associés sell a Sasanian missorium, lot 179 estimated € 400K. The word Missorium referring to a silver presentation dish is a modern convention.
This gilt silver dish 29 cm in diameter and weighing 896 g shows an enthroned king surrounded by four assistants, along with roaring lions and winged horse-headed chimera. The scene is executed by the technique of cast and wrought metal. The most prominent feature is the head of the monarch, which increases his brightness and therefore favors the royal dignity.
It is not dated but the comparison of style makes it close to a Roman dish known as the missorium of Theodosius, found broken in 1847 in Spain in a tresasure of Oriental origin. Recent studies date the missorium of Theodosius in the fifteenth year of the reign of Theodosius II in Constantinople, 423 of our calendar.
In 422, after a short war, a lasting peace had been concluded between Theodosius II and Bahram V. On another front, Bahram had defeated four Hunnite kings who may be the characters who accompany him on the Sassanid missorium.
One hypothesis that could explain this whole story is that the missorium of Theodosius was used as a presentation dish for Bahram V and the Sasanian missorium coming on sale was an imitation adapting the theme to the glory of the Persian king.
This gilt silver dish 29 cm in diameter and weighing 896 g shows an enthroned king surrounded by four assistants, along with roaring lions and winged horse-headed chimera. The scene is executed by the technique of cast and wrought metal. The most prominent feature is the head of the monarch, which increases his brightness and therefore favors the royal dignity.
It is not dated but the comparison of style makes it close to a Roman dish known as the missorium of Theodosius, found broken in 1847 in Spain in a tresasure of Oriental origin. Recent studies date the missorium of Theodosius in the fifteenth year of the reign of Theodosius II in Constantinople, 423 of our calendar.
In 422, after a short war, a lasting peace had been concluded between Theodosius II and Bahram V. On another front, Bahram had defeated four Hunnite kings who may be the characters who accompany him on the Sassanid missorium.
One hypothesis that could explain this whole story is that the missorium of Theodosius was used as a presentation dish for Bahram V and the Sasanian missorium coming on sale was an imitation adapting the theme to the glory of the Persian king.
the story of the faithful dog
2014 unsold
The picture plate appears in the early Roman Empire. These round silver dishes with an almost flat surface are carved and chased, offering a full sized scene in slight relief circled by a reduced rim.
On October 2 in London, Bonhams sells a plate of 24 cm in diameter executed over a thin circular foot. This piece weighing 865 g is estimated £ 220K, lot 142. By comparing the styles, it is estimated to have been made about 1400 years ago with no better defined date, probably in Constantinople.
The theme is pagan: it is the story of the return of Odysseus disguised as a beggar traveler who is recognized by his dog Argus. The mythic dimension is reinforced by the figure of the goddess Athena in arms who looks down through the clouds.
Such pagan illustration is not unusual at that time although it was already deep in the Christian era. It marks the appropriation by a religion of the best virtues of neighboring civilizations, as indeed the Buddhists were also doing in their own area of influence. Under the foot of the plate, a head made in embossed silver is probably Alexander's.
I recently discussed a plate three centuries older showing a Sasanian royal hunt, which was sold for £ 182K including premium by Bonhams on April 3, 2014. Similar in diameter and a little less heavy, it however had a further refinement: the salient parts of the scene were gilt.
On October 2 in London, Bonhams sells a plate of 24 cm in diameter executed over a thin circular foot. This piece weighing 865 g is estimated £ 220K, lot 142. By comparing the styles, it is estimated to have been made about 1400 years ago with no better defined date, probably in Constantinople.
The theme is pagan: it is the story of the return of Odysseus disguised as a beggar traveler who is recognized by his dog Argus. The mythic dimension is reinforced by the figure of the goddess Athena in arms who looks down through the clouds.
Such pagan illustration is not unusual at that time although it was already deep in the Christian era. It marks the appropriation by a religion of the best virtues of neighboring civilizations, as indeed the Buddhists were also doing in their own area of influence. Under the foot of the plate, a head made in embossed silver is probably Alexander's.
I recently discussed a plate three centuries older showing a Sasanian royal hunt, which was sold for £ 182K including premium by Bonhams on April 3, 2014. Similar in diameter and a little less heavy, it however had a further refinement: the salient parts of the scene were gilt.
1180 Temperance in a Wine Cup
2011 unsold
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
Sotheby's publish two or three times a year their press releases announcing the highlights of their upcoming auctions in Europe. The page 8 of the release of April 5 is illustrated with a photo of a silver cup in top view, for sale in Paris on May 17.
The estimated date is extraordinary when considering that the silverware had so often been melted down for financing the wars: circa 1180. Probably from France, it has been executed early in the reign of Philip Augustus.
Impatiently waiting for the catalog, I was not disappointed: this piece is fabulous, in the etymological meaning of the word. The center is adorned with a basilisk, a cousin of the dragon that takes here the look of a dog-headed peacock biting the feathers of its tail.
It is a bit like sake cups. When you pour the liquor, you hide the image. But when you finish drinking, the monster comes back to shame you for your intemperance.
Note now some technical details. The cup is in embossed and finely carved silver, with a main motif of pomegranate seeds. 8 cm high including the foot, it has an effective diameter of 18 cm and weighs 253 grams. It is estimated €300K.
The estimated date is based on the iconography of the cup and its lack of hallmark, which is normal for the announced time.
The expertise of Sotheby's has been carried out in cooperation with the Agalmata expert company in Paris.
POST SALE COMMENT
This cup was not in very good condition, but is it really possible for a medieval silverware to be perfect? It has not been sold.
It had been illustrated in the pre sale release shared by Artdaily.
Sotheby's publish two or three times a year their press releases announcing the highlights of their upcoming auctions in Europe. The page 8 of the release of April 5 is illustrated with a photo of a silver cup in top view, for sale in Paris on May 17.
The estimated date is extraordinary when considering that the silverware had so often been melted down for financing the wars: circa 1180. Probably from France, it has been executed early in the reign of Philip Augustus.
Impatiently waiting for the catalog, I was not disappointed: this piece is fabulous, in the etymological meaning of the word. The center is adorned with a basilisk, a cousin of the dragon that takes here the look of a dog-headed peacock biting the feathers of its tail.
It is a bit like sake cups. When you pour the liquor, you hide the image. But when you finish drinking, the monster comes back to shame you for your intemperance.
Note now some technical details. The cup is in embossed and finely carved silver, with a main motif of pomegranate seeds. 8 cm high including the foot, it has an effective diameter of 18 cm and weighs 253 grams. It is estimated €300K.
The estimated date is based on the iconography of the cup and its lack of hallmark, which is normal for the announced time.
The expertise of Sotheby's has been carried out in cooperation with the Agalmata expert company in Paris.
POST SALE COMMENT
This cup was not in very good condition, but is it really possible for a medieval silverware to be perfect? It has not been sold.
It had been illustrated in the pre sale release shared by Artdaily.
Silver Treasure
2009 Withdrawn
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
The old French silver is extremely rare because of the requisitions made by Louis XIV to fund his wars. Moreover, threatened people were more inclined to protect their coins than to preserve their dishes, and silver treasures are exceptional.
This explains the great interest of the treasure of Pouilly-sur-Meuse, found enclosed in a stone cache in 2006. It includes 31 pieces of silver improved by parcel gilt, including beautiful cups and a remarkable set of spoons.Sotheby's sells it all in ten lots in Paris on November 9. Hiding was made after 1570.
Some of these objects are in good condition. Among them, a covered ewer with traces of marks that are attributed to Paris before 1507, anticipating from about a half-century the earliest Parisian pitcher that was previously known. The absence of market history explains the cautiousness of the auction house, which does not publish an estimate.
18 cm high and weighing 615 grams, it has an effective shape and a simple pleasant decor with flowers and leaves that we would compare with the Art Déco style, five centuries later. The parcel gilt is discreet, which reinforces the elegance. There are still some traces of enamel on the cover.
POST SALE COMMENT
The treasure of Pouilly will not be auctioned. It has indeed been purchased before the sale in its entirety for 1.4 M€ by the French State and local authorities of Lorraine région for the benefit of the Musée Lorrain de Nancy.
The old French silver is extremely rare because of the requisitions made by Louis XIV to fund his wars. Moreover, threatened people were more inclined to protect their coins than to preserve their dishes, and silver treasures are exceptional.
This explains the great interest of the treasure of Pouilly-sur-Meuse, found enclosed in a stone cache in 2006. It includes 31 pieces of silver improved by parcel gilt, including beautiful cups and a remarkable set of spoons.Sotheby's sells it all in ten lots in Paris on November 9. Hiding was made after 1570.
Some of these objects are in good condition. Among them, a covered ewer with traces of marks that are attributed to Paris before 1507, anticipating from about a half-century the earliest Parisian pitcher that was previously known. The absence of market history explains the cautiousness of the auction house, which does not publish an estimate.
18 cm high and weighing 615 grams, it has an effective shape and a simple pleasant decor with flowers and leaves that we would compare with the Art Déco style, five centuries later. The parcel gilt is discreet, which reinforces the elegance. There are still some traces of enamel on the cover.
POST SALE COMMENT
The treasure of Pouilly will not be auctioned. It has indeed been purchased before the sale in its entirety for 1.4 M€ by the French State and local authorities of Lorraine région for the benefit of the Musée Lorrain de Nancy.
1590 Gryphon Egg
2008 SOLD for £ 580K by Christie's
The ancient gold- and silver-wares may surprise the amateur of today. Pattern fashions change, and objects are melted to create other shapes. Sometimes, as in France under Louis XIV, silver is requisitioned to support the State. The same artistic disaster also occurred in England but it was less exhaustive and some old pieces have survived.
On 25 November, 2008, Christie's sold the collection of silverware of an English Lord. We learn in the press release that it was fashionable in London at the end of the sixteenth century to combine the work of the silver with materials such as shells, coral, pearls, minerals, rock crystals and eggs of ostrich. It was the time of the great explorations of the seas by the British during the reign of Elizabeth Tudor, and this sudden fashion for the exotics is logical.
Sold for £ 580K, the most unusual lot of this sale is composed of an ostrich egg mounted in gilt as a cup in 1590 by the goldsmith John Spilman, and of a Dutch painting from the next century which represents this object in a still life. Mounted ostrich eggs were once called the "Gryphon eggs".
On 25 November, 2008, Christie's sold the collection of silverware of an English Lord. We learn in the press release that it was fashionable in London at the end of the sixteenth century to combine the work of the silver with materials such as shells, coral, pearls, minerals, rock crystals and eggs of ostrich. It was the time of the great explorations of the seas by the British during the reign of Elizabeth Tudor, and this sudden fashion for the exotics is logical.
Sold for £ 580K, the most unusual lot of this sale is composed of an ostrich egg mounted in gilt as a cup in 1590 by the goldsmith John Spilman, and of a Dutch painting from the next century which represents this object in a still life. Mounted ostrich eggs were once called the "Gryphon eggs".
1614-1616 Wine Mill in Augsburg
2018 sold for € 220k including premium
At his court in Prague, Emperor Rudolf II, who died in 1612, had fashioned the cabinets of curiosities or Kunstkammer. In Augsburg goldsmiths invent pieces for the entertainment of their wealthy clients. A complete set of 52 parcel-gilt engraved silver playing cards made in Augsburg in 1616 was sold for $ 555K including premium by Christie's on October 19, 2010 over a lower estimate of $ 150K.
On November 13 in Paris, Sotheby's sells a silver parcel-gilt Trinkspiel made in 1614-1616 in Augsburg by Hans Maulbrunner. This equipment is designed to show to astonished spectators the instant transformation of water into wine. The mechanism is composed of two superimposed sections.
The magician has previously poured the wine into the upper tank without the knowledge of his audience. When he pours the water for his demonstration, the wine is repelled through tiny channels in a vertical cylinder, forming an overflow which pours in four jets into the lower cup. The wine is then conveyed to the mouth of the instrument through a water wheel and a narrow channel.
This piece is beautifully decorated with various silver figures including a small frog in the flow path. Its overall dimensions are 27 x 31 cm and it weighs 700 g. It is estimated € 150K, lot 5. The video shared by Sotheby's includes a complete demonstration ending with wine tasting.
The Thirty Years War begins in 1618, ending the desire to have fun. A Trinkspiel in the shape of a water mill made by the same silversmith is however dated 1626-1628. It is preserved at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
On November 13 in Paris, Sotheby's sells a silver parcel-gilt Trinkspiel made in 1614-1616 in Augsburg by Hans Maulbrunner. This equipment is designed to show to astonished spectators the instant transformation of water into wine. The mechanism is composed of two superimposed sections.
The magician has previously poured the wine into the upper tank without the knowledge of his audience. When he pours the water for his demonstration, the wine is repelled through tiny channels in a vertical cylinder, forming an overflow which pours in four jets into the lower cup. The wine is then conveyed to the mouth of the instrument through a water wheel and a narrow channel.
This piece is beautifully decorated with various silver figures including a small frog in the flow path. Its overall dimensions are 27 x 31 cm and it weighs 700 g. It is estimated € 150K, lot 5. The video shared by Sotheby's includes a complete demonstration ending with wine tasting.
The Thirty Years War begins in 1618, ending the desire to have fun. A Trinkspiel in the shape of a water mill made by the same silversmith is however dated 1626-1628. It is preserved at the Victoria and Albert Museum.
1630-1635 Mannerism in Augsburg
2009 SOLD 360 K€ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
Yves Saint-Laurent had an exceptional collection of parcel-gilt silver statues of Augsburg. In the seventeenth century, the silversmiths of the city created sculptures showing humans or animals.
In two characters only, Nessus and Deianeira, the subject gathers man, woman and animal, as Nessus is a centaur. The movement is spirited: the centaur abducts the woman.
This object of good size (40 cm high, 2940 g) has been made in 1630-1635 from a model by Giambologna. A Flemish working in Italy who died very old in 1608, this artist was at the origin of a new style, studying tension, balance, movements. His models were often reused, especially in bronze.
The silver base on which was probably the mark is gone, replaced by a late ebony plinth. The Louvre has a similar copy. The silversmith would be Andreas I Wickert, master from 1629 to 1661.
Presented in the Christie's sale of 23 to 25 February in Paris, this statuette is estimated 300 K €.
POST SALE COMMENT
This statue was sold 360 K € premium included. The price is in line with the estimate.
Yves Saint-Laurent had an exceptional collection of parcel-gilt silver statues of Augsburg. In the seventeenth century, the silversmiths of the city created sculptures showing humans or animals.
In two characters only, Nessus and Deianeira, the subject gathers man, woman and animal, as Nessus is a centaur. The movement is spirited: the centaur abducts the woman.
This object of good size (40 cm high, 2940 g) has been made in 1630-1635 from a model by Giambologna. A Flemish working in Italy who died very old in 1608, this artist was at the origin of a new style, studying tension, balance, movements. His models were often reused, especially in bronze.
The silver base on which was probably the mark is gone, replaced by a late ebony plinth. The Louvre has a similar copy. The silversmith would be Andreas I Wickert, master from 1629 to 1661.
Presented in the Christie's sale of 23 to 25 February in Paris, this statuette is estimated 300 K €.
POST SALE COMMENT
This statue was sold 360 K € premium included. The price is in line with the estimate.
1697-1699 Hercules and Atlas in Augsburg
2010 SOLD 1.75 M€ including premium
The sale of the Yves Saint-Laurent estate in February 2009 by Christie's in Paris was a very good introduction to the silver from Augsburg. The designer had a great collection of these statuettes of animal or mythological subject, often inspired by Italian bronzes.
On April 13 the same auction house is selling in one lot estimated 600 K € two silver globes made in Augsburg between 1697 and 1699, signed by Abraham II Drentwett.
The terrestrial globe is raised by Hercules and the celestial globe by Atlas. The characters and the spheres are in silver and the circles of the globes in silver gilt, for a total height of 24 cm and a weight of 2200 grams for the set. Globes are finely carved, and their maps are consistent with the geographical and celestial knowledge of their time.
The catalog does not advertise this set as a pair, as it was originally a series of three figures, described by a publication in 1912. The statue of Saturn holding the armillary sphere has not kept pace.
POST SALE COMMENT
Augsburg silver art is unclassifiable, between the major art of sculpture and that of the highest decoration. Buyers have recognized the exceptional qualities of this pair of globes: 1.75 M € including premium.
On April 13 the same auction house is selling in one lot estimated 600 K € two silver globes made in Augsburg between 1697 and 1699, signed by Abraham II Drentwett.
The terrestrial globe is raised by Hercules and the celestial globe by Atlas. The characters and the spheres are in silver and the circles of the globes in silver gilt, for a total height of 24 cm and a weight of 2200 grams for the set. Globes are finely carved, and their maps are consistent with the geographical and celestial knowledge of their time.
The catalog does not advertise this set as a pair, as it was originally a series of three figures, described by a publication in 1912. The statue of Saturn holding the armillary sphere has not kept pace.
POST SALE COMMENT
Augsburg silver art is unclassifiable, between the major art of sculpture and that of the highest decoration. Buyers have recognized the exceptional qualities of this pair of globes: 1.75 M € including premium.
1701 No Witch in Dorchester !
2012 SOLD 1.08 M$ including premium
On January 22, 2010, the ancient American silver became a major sector of the art market with the sale by Sotheby's of a punch bowl made in New York between 1700 and 1710. Sold $ 5.9 million including premium, it was then the first piece of this category to exceed $ 1M at auction.
Remain in the same period but in Dorchester, a town in Massachusetts founded as early as 1630 which was a favorite resort for the elites of Boston.
In 1701, William Stoughton died in Dorchester. Famous in his day for his chairmanship of the Salem witch trials, he finished his career as acting governor of Massachusetts.
His will endowed the parish of Dorchester in silver. The pair of standing cups finely carved with his arms, for sale by Sotheby's on January 20 in New York, was made on that occasion by Jeremiah Dummer.
Kept by the parish church since then, this pair in excellent condition is estimated between $ 1M and 2M, a very open range of estimates which is by itself an indication of the importance of this lot.
Here is the link to the catalogue, and the size : 21 cm high.
POST SALE COMMENT
Sold $ 1.08 million including premium, this lot remained below its estimate.
Remain in the same period but in Dorchester, a town in Massachusetts founded as early as 1630 which was a favorite resort for the elites of Boston.
In 1701, William Stoughton died in Dorchester. Famous in his day for his chairmanship of the Salem witch trials, he finished his career as acting governor of Massachusetts.
His will endowed the parish of Dorchester in silver. The pair of standing cups finely carved with his arms, for sale by Sotheby's on January 20 in New York, was made on that occasion by Jeremiah Dummer.
Kept by the parish church since then, this pair in excellent condition is estimated between $ 1M and 2M, a very open range of estimates which is by itself an indication of the importance of this lot.
Here is the link to the catalogue, and the size : 21 cm high.
POST SALE COMMENT
Sold $ 1.08 million including premium, this lot remained below its estimate.
1722-1723 The Silversmith of the Louvre
2012 SOLD 540 K€ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
On April 18 in Paris, Sotheby's sells an écuelle with its cover and stand. It is a heavy set in silver-gilt 31 cm long and weighing 1845 grams, whose mark is difficult to read. A detailed analysis enables however to attribute it withexcellent credibility to Thomas Germain, made in 1722-1723.
This is the best reference in terms of French silverware, and moreover it would be the oldest civil piece by ThomasGermain to have survived until today. The great ancient French silver is very rare because of meltings due to the financing of wars and to the changing styles.
This lot is estimated € 500K. Here is the link to the catalog.
Thomas Germain was the son of a goldsmith of the Louvre, but he was still very young when his father died. He wonhis glory by a solid artistic education in Rome at the time of the Rococo style, by his personal skill and by his extremeperfectionism.
His fame grew throughout his career. He became the most appreciated goldsmith in the Louvre and also worked for many foreign rulers.
He should not be confused with his son and successor, François-Thomas Germain, who met an early success by copying the models and marks of his father before being expelled from the Louvre for bankruptcy.
POST SALE COMMENT
This prestigious piece was sold € 540K including premium, in the region of the lower estimate.
On April 18 in Paris, Sotheby's sells an écuelle with its cover and stand. It is a heavy set in silver-gilt 31 cm long and weighing 1845 grams, whose mark is difficult to read. A detailed analysis enables however to attribute it withexcellent credibility to Thomas Germain, made in 1722-1723.
This is the best reference in terms of French silverware, and moreover it would be the oldest civil piece by ThomasGermain to have survived until today. The great ancient French silver is very rare because of meltings due to the financing of wars and to the changing styles.
This lot is estimated € 500K. Here is the link to the catalog.
Thomas Germain was the son of a goldsmith of the Louvre, but he was still very young when his father died. He wonhis glory by a solid artistic education in Rome at the time of the Rococo style, by his personal skill and by his extremeperfectionism.
His fame grew throughout his career. He became the most appreciated goldsmith in the Louvre and also worked for many foreign rulers.
He should not be confused with his son and successor, François-Thomas Germain, who met an early success by copying the models and marks of his father before being expelled from the Louvre for bankruptcy.
POST SALE COMMENT
This prestigious piece was sold € 540K including premium, in the region of the lower estimate.
1731 English Rococo Silverware
2009 Unsold
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
The English silver has a high reputation, much deserved.
During the reign of the first Georges, the most famous silversmith in London was Paul De Lamerie, who became goldsmith of the king in 1716. In the 1730s, he engaged in rococo style, particularly suited to silver (though looking now old fashioned in some other sectors of the art market).
On October 22 in New York, Christie's gather in one lot a series of four identical candlesticks, 24 cm high, for a total weight of 4.3 Kg. Marked in London in 1731, they are decorated with foliages and shells and representative of the most delicate productions of the master. They belonged to the collection of President Marcos. The set is estimated 400 K$.
Let us remain at Christie's for the memory of an exceptional result: on July 9, 1997, the auction house sold 815 K£ including fees a naturalist tortoise shaped tureen 47 cm long, weighing 5 kg, signed by the same silversmith in 1750.
The English silver has a high reputation, much deserved.
During the reign of the first Georges, the most famous silversmith in London was Paul De Lamerie, who became goldsmith of the king in 1716. In the 1730s, he engaged in rococo style, particularly suited to silver (though looking now old fashioned in some other sectors of the art market).
On October 22 in New York, Christie's gather in one lot a series of four identical candlesticks, 24 cm high, for a total weight of 4.3 Kg. Marked in London in 1731, they are decorated with foliages and shells and representative of the most delicate productions of the master. They belonged to the collection of President Marcos. The set is estimated 400 K$.
Let us remain at Christie's for the memory of an exceptional result: on July 9, 1997, the auction house sold 815 K£ including fees a naturalist tortoise shaped tureen 47 cm long, weighing 5 kg, signed by the same silversmith in 1750.
1738 The DeLamerie Mark
2013 Unsold
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
The repeal of the Edict of Nantes drove many Huguenots to flee to the other side of the Channel where they werewelcomed by the new regime of William and Mary. Migrants included many craftsmen and members of the gentry.
Not only this movement will generate the pinnacle of English silver, but it will also create an artistic lineage by applying to the techniques of silverware the complicated figurative motifs of French Rococo.
Arriving in London in early childhood, Paul de Lamerie became the most famous silversmith during the reigns ofGeorge I and George II. Amidst the rather secret French community in London, his biography is quite well known. He had a large workshop and often subcontracted, which also explains the varying quality of his work.
In 1991, Christie's sold £ 1.485 million a sideboard dish with the de Lamerie mark and the arms of the 5th BaronMaynard. The extreme decorative quality of this piece makes it assign to a specific anonymous artist who would have worked in the De Lamerie workshop between 1737 and 1745 and who is identified as the Maynard master by reference to this masterpiece.
On July 4 in London, Christie's sells a silver coffee pot made in 1738 with the mark of Paul de Lamerie. This pearshaped piece 27 cm high weighing 1075 grams is a technical feat by the fineness of its abundant and varied rococodecoration. It is estimated £ 3.5 million.
At that time the repousse technique was most common to decorate the silverware. The exceptional quality of the best works of De Lamerie and his Maynard master is probably due to the use of lost wax.
The repeal of the Edict of Nantes drove many Huguenots to flee to the other side of the Channel where they werewelcomed by the new regime of William and Mary. Migrants included many craftsmen and members of the gentry.
Not only this movement will generate the pinnacle of English silver, but it will also create an artistic lineage by applying to the techniques of silverware the complicated figurative motifs of French Rococo.
Arriving in London in early childhood, Paul de Lamerie became the most famous silversmith during the reigns ofGeorge I and George II. Amidst the rather secret French community in London, his biography is quite well known. He had a large workshop and often subcontracted, which also explains the varying quality of his work.
In 1991, Christie's sold £ 1.485 million a sideboard dish with the de Lamerie mark and the arms of the 5th BaronMaynard. The extreme decorative quality of this piece makes it assign to a specific anonymous artist who would have worked in the De Lamerie workshop between 1737 and 1745 and who is identified as the Maynard master by reference to this masterpiece.
On July 4 in London, Christie's sells a silver coffee pot made in 1738 with the mark of Paul de Lamerie. This pearshaped piece 27 cm high weighing 1075 grams is a technical feat by the fineness of its abundant and varied rococodecoration. It is estimated £ 3.5 million.
At that time the repousse technique was most common to decorate the silverware. The exceptional quality of the best works of De Lamerie and his Maynard master is probably due to the use of lost wax.
1739 A George II Silver Basket
2010 SOLD 218 K$ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
Here is a piece of very nice shape. If it was made of wicker and not of silver, it could well be imagined hanging at the arm of Little Red Riding Hood.
It is a cake basket of 35 cm long, oval and pierced, weighing 1858 grams. Dated 1739, the basket and its handle are heavily decorated in the rocaille style in vogue at that time. Estimated $ 200K, it is to be sold by Christie's in New York on January 26.
It bears the prestigious mark of Paul De Lamerie in London. I had already introduced this master a few months ago.Here's how I defined his work:
"During the reign of the first Georges, the most famous silversmith in London was Paul De Lamerie, who became goldsmith of the king in 1716. In the 1730s, he engaged in
rococo style, particularly suited to silver (though looking now old
fashioned in some other sectors of the art market)."
POST SALE COMMENT
No surprise on this piece of English silver, sold 218 K $ including premium.
There was another cake basket in this sale. Dated 1731 and bearing the mark of John Edwards in London, it was sold 188 K $ including premium. It had been estimated $ 150K.
Here is a piece of very nice shape. If it was made of wicker and not of silver, it could well be imagined hanging at the arm of Little Red Riding Hood.
It is a cake basket of 35 cm long, oval and pierced, weighing 1858 grams. Dated 1739, the basket and its handle are heavily decorated in the rocaille style in vogue at that time. Estimated $ 200K, it is to be sold by Christie's in New York on January 26.
It bears the prestigious mark of Paul De Lamerie in London. I had already introduced this master a few months ago.Here's how I defined his work:
"During the reign of the first Georges, the most famous silversmith in London was Paul De Lamerie, who became goldsmith of the king in 1716. In the 1730s, he engaged in
rococo style, particularly suited to silver (though looking now old
fashioned in some other sectors of the art market)."
POST SALE COMMENT
No surprise on this piece of English silver, sold 218 K $ including premium.
There was another cake basket in this sale. Dated 1731 and bearing the mark of John Edwards in London, it was sold 188 K $ including premium. It had been estimated $ 150K.
1740-1742 Germain Father and Son
2019 unsold
Thomas Germain, officially appointed Orfèvre et sculpteur du Roy aux Galeries du Louvre, is the greatest master of the rococo silverware. Until his death in 1748, he makes the most prestigious pieces for Louis XV. From 1723 he is also the direct supplier of royal and princely courts including Portugal, Brazil, Spain, the Two Sicilies. In 1742 he is commissioned by the French government to prepare the sumptuous pieces of silverware to be presented to the Sultan of Constantinople.
The great pieces of French silverware are today extremely rare because of the melts of the Seven Years' War and of the Révolution. On November 13, 1996, Sotheby's sold for $ 10.3M including premium a tureen weighing more than 13 kg made by Thomas Germain circa 1733 for the Penthièvre-Orléans princely service. The lid is in itself a work of art imitating the still-life paintings of the makings of a meal.
A soup tureen more accurately described as a pot à oille has also survived. Stamped in the period 1740-1742, it is accompanied by its original liner, cover and stand. François-Thomas Germain, son of the artist, worked according to the models of his father and maintained his international clientele. He bought back this piece before 1764 for selling it to Melo e Castro, a Portuguese negotiator during the Seven Years' War. The coat of arms of that family has been added for this operation.
This set weighing more than 10 kg for a height of 30 cm overall is estimated $ 2M for sale by Sotheby's in New York on October 25, lot 690. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
The great pieces of French silverware are today extremely rare because of the melts of the Seven Years' War and of the Révolution. On November 13, 1996, Sotheby's sold for $ 10.3M including premium a tureen weighing more than 13 kg made by Thomas Germain circa 1733 for the Penthièvre-Orléans princely service. The lid is in itself a work of art imitating the still-life paintings of the makings of a meal.
A soup tureen more accurately described as a pot à oille has also survived. Stamped in the period 1740-1742, it is accompanied by its original liner, cover and stand. François-Thomas Germain, son of the artist, worked according to the models of his father and maintained his international clientele. He bought back this piece before 1764 for selling it to Melo e Castro, a Portuguese negotiator during the Seven Years' War. The coat of arms of that family has been added for this operation.
This set weighing more than 10 kg for a height of 30 cm overall is estimated $ 2M for sale by Sotheby's in New York on October 25, lot 690. Please watch the video shared by the auction house.
1745-1756 The Leinster Dinner Service
2012 SOLD 1.72 M£ including premium
During the reign of George II, a young Irish nobleman succeeded his father, married and bought dishes for his dinner table. It sounds normal.
What is less usual is that the service remained almost intact. Marked by George Wickes in London, dated between 1745 and 1756, it currently consists of 184 pieces of silverware for a total weight of 164.7 kg
Designed in the style of à la française dinner, it is also one of the finest examples of silverware from that time, far surpassing, it seems, the service of the Prince of Wales.
The young Irishman was the 20th Earl of Kildare, who was promoted in 1766 to become the first Duke of Leinster. Remained in his family until 1918, his silver is known as the Leinster service. It is estimated £ 1.5 million, for sale as a single lot by Christie's in London on July 5.
To assess the importance of the Leinster service, compare it with a more recent set in a different style: on November 6, 2008, Sotheby's sold $ 1.9 million including premium the table service delivered by Odiot to the Grand Duchess of Baden in the 1820s, consisting of 77 pieces for a total weight of 90 Kg.
POST SALE COMMENT
Maintaining such a set still undispersed is exceptional. The lot was sold £ 1.72 million including premium.
What is less usual is that the service remained almost intact. Marked by George Wickes in London, dated between 1745 and 1756, it currently consists of 184 pieces of silverware for a total weight of 164.7 kg
Designed in the style of à la française dinner, it is also one of the finest examples of silverware from that time, far surpassing, it seems, the service of the Prince of Wales.
The young Irishman was the 20th Earl of Kildare, who was promoted in 1766 to become the first Duke of Leinster. Remained in his family until 1918, his silver is known as the Leinster service. It is estimated £ 1.5 million, for sale as a single lot by Christie's in London on July 5.
To assess the importance of the Leinster service, compare it with a more recent set in a different style: on November 6, 2008, Sotheby's sold $ 1.9 million including premium the table service delivered by Odiot to the Grand Duchess of Baden in the 1820s, consisting of 77 pieces for a total weight of 90 Kg.
POST SALE COMMENT
Maintaining such a set still undispersed is exceptional. The lot was sold £ 1.72 million including premium.
1766 A WAR SOUP TUREEN
2008 UNSOLD
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
This piece of silverware in the shape of a warship could well scare an enemy of Russia. It is indeed an extravagant soup tureen, 59 cm long, 29 cm high, weighing 9673 grams (let's be accurate).
It is shaped like a boat with fourteen guns mounted on four dolphin feet, and bears the initial of Catherine the Great. Commissioned by the Empress, it was manufactured in St. Petersburg in 1766 by the silversmith Zacharias Deichmann. This model is known in two copies of this size, and two other smaller.
From the outset, it was designed for the Navy and made service (the right word for both navy and silverware) to the Russian fleet of the Black Sea. It was a habit at the court of Catherine to deliver silverware as a reward to her supporters. Later, officers of the Royal Navy had purchased it by subscription and preserved it for a hundred years in a private club.
It is now on sale at Christie's in London on November 24, sale 7630, Lot 57. Its estimate of 400 K£ may be reached.
This piece of silverware in the shape of a warship could well scare an enemy of Russia. It is indeed an extravagant soup tureen, 59 cm long, 29 cm high, weighing 9673 grams (let's be accurate).
It is shaped like a boat with fourteen guns mounted on four dolphin feet, and bears the initial of Catherine the Great. Commissioned by the Empress, it was manufactured in St. Petersburg in 1766 by the silversmith Zacharias Deichmann. This model is known in two copies of this size, and two other smaller.
From the outset, it was designed for the Navy and made service (the right word for both navy and silverware) to the Russian fleet of the Black Sea. It was a habit at the court of Catherine to deliver silverware as a reward to her supporters. Later, officers of the Royal Navy had purchased it by subscription and preserved it for a hundred years in a private club.
It is now on sale at Christie's in London on November 24, sale 7630, Lot 57. Its estimate of 400 K£ may be reached.
1770 Catherine the Great promotes the French Taste
2013 SOLD 1.78 M€ including premium
In 1770, the Empress Catherine desires a full service of silverware. It must be gorgeous and she decides to have it done in Paris. The silversmiths Roettiers father and son realize about 3000 pieces in a remarkably short time, 18 months.
Catherine was so happy with the result that she offered the service to her favorite, Count Orloff, and then took the whole back for her shortly after his death. Known afterwards as the Orloff service, this is a great example of the neoclassical style that took over the rococo with more power in the shape and better simplicity in the decoration.
Many pieces have disappeared, probably melted, and what remained was dispersed by the Soviet government. The arrival on the market of heavy pieces from the Orloff service is always an event.
On 19 April 2002, Christie's sold for $ 930K including premium a pair of high vase-shaped coolers. The total weight of this lot was 9468 g.
Two lots of pieces from the Orloff service are sold by Christie's in Paris on November 8.
The tureen with cover and stand made in 1770 by the younger Roettiers is estimated € 1.5 million, for a total weight of 11960 g. Here is the link to the catalog.
A suite of four candlesticks made in 1771 also by the son is estimated € 500K, for a total weight of 7460 g. Here is the link to the catalog.
POST SALE COMMENT
The result is consistent with the expectation for these two prestigious lots: € 1.78 million including premium for the tureen and € 600K including premium for the suite of candlesticks.
2022
The tureen was sold for € 1.18M by Sotheby's on October 11, 2022, lot 61.
Catherine was so happy with the result that she offered the service to her favorite, Count Orloff, and then took the whole back for her shortly after his death. Known afterwards as the Orloff service, this is a great example of the neoclassical style that took over the rococo with more power in the shape and better simplicity in the decoration.
Many pieces have disappeared, probably melted, and what remained was dispersed by the Soviet government. The arrival on the market of heavy pieces from the Orloff service is always an event.
On 19 April 2002, Christie's sold for $ 930K including premium a pair of high vase-shaped coolers. The total weight of this lot was 9468 g.
Two lots of pieces from the Orloff service are sold by Christie's in Paris on November 8.
The tureen with cover and stand made in 1770 by the younger Roettiers is estimated € 1.5 million, for a total weight of 11960 g. Here is the link to the catalog.
A suite of four candlesticks made in 1771 also by the son is estimated € 500K, for a total weight of 7460 g. Here is the link to the catalog.
POST SALE COMMENT
The result is consistent with the expectation for these two prestigious lots: € 1.78 million including premium for the tureen and € 600K including premium for the suite of candlesticks.
2022
The tureen was sold for € 1.18M by Sotheby's on October 11, 2022, lot 61.
1779-1781 Ready for the Soup
2011 SOLD 360 K€ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
The neoclassical style is particularly conducive to silverware. The molten and carved metal favours in relief the decorative motifs of the eighteenth century: godrons, acanthus, vegetables and mushrooms, marine animals.
We therefore find all the useful ideas for composing the soup for dinner in this huge oval tureen for sale by Gros etDelettrez in Paris, Hôtel Drouot, on April 7.
It is an assembly of four pieces manufactured from 1779 to 1781 in Vienna for the service of the Duke of Sachsen-Teschen, governor of the Austrian Netherlands. The pot alone weighs 7.7 kg. Including its cover, its mobile lining and its stand, it is reaching 41 cm high and 16.9 Kg.
This towering silverware was signed by Ignaz Joseph Würth, who worked for the Habsburg court and was the equal of the greatest silversmiths of his century like François-Thomas Germain.
The announced estimate, € 150K, seems low.
POST SALE COMMENT
The sale of the Weiller collection was a great success.
In particular, this piece of silverware reached a price worthy of its Ducal origin: € 290K before fees,360K including premium.
The neoclassical style is particularly conducive to silverware. The molten and carved metal favours in relief the decorative motifs of the eighteenth century: godrons, acanthus, vegetables and mushrooms, marine animals.
We therefore find all the useful ideas for composing the soup for dinner in this huge oval tureen for sale by Gros etDelettrez in Paris, Hôtel Drouot, on April 7.
It is an assembly of four pieces manufactured from 1779 to 1781 in Vienna for the service of the Duke of Sachsen-Teschen, governor of the Austrian Netherlands. The pot alone weighs 7.7 kg. Including its cover, its mobile lining and its stand, it is reaching 41 cm high and 16.9 Kg.
This towering silverware was signed by Ignaz Joseph Würth, who worked for the Habsburg court and was the equal of the greatest silversmiths of his century like François-Thomas Germain.
The announced estimate, € 150K, seems low.
POST SALE COMMENT
The sale of the Weiller collection was a great success.
In particular, this piece of silverware reached a price worthy of its Ducal origin: € 290K before fees,360K including premium.
1780 Paul Revere, Silversmith and Patriot
2009 SOLD 75 K$ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
You all know the legend of the soldier of Marathon. The Americans have not forgotten the heroic ride of Paul Revere, in the events that preceded the independence of the United States. The night of 18 April 1775, he came prevent the colonials of Massachusetts of the arrival of British troops.
Revere was established in Boston as a silversmith. I spoke recently of this city, in the Furniture group. Indeed Boston was at that time the major activity center of America.
Lot 95 of the sale 2132 at Christie's in New York on January 23 brings together the professional skills and the personal memory of Revere. This soup ladle made around 1780 was in fact part of his personal silver. It is heavily monogramed "PRR", Paul and Rachel Revere.
Now as usual, the dimensions: 12 inches long, weighing 4 ounces. And let us recommend that the American auction houses use the units of the international scientific system.
The expected price for this ladle is $ 80K.
POST SALE COMMENT
Sold $ 75 K premium included, this piece of silverware remained below its low estimate.
You all know the legend of the soldier of Marathon. The Americans have not forgotten the heroic ride of Paul Revere, in the events that preceded the independence of the United States. The night of 18 April 1775, he came prevent the colonials of Massachusetts of the arrival of British troops.
Revere was established in Boston as a silversmith. I spoke recently of this city, in the Furniture group. Indeed Boston was at that time the major activity center of America.
Lot 95 of the sale 2132 at Christie's in New York on January 23 brings together the professional skills and the personal memory of Revere. This soup ladle made around 1780 was in fact part of his personal silver. It is heavily monogramed "PRR", Paul and Rachel Revere.
Now as usual, the dimensions: 12 inches long, weighing 4 ounces. And let us recommend that the American auction houses use the units of the international scientific system.
The expected price for this ladle is $ 80K.
POST SALE COMMENT
Sold $ 75 K premium included, this piece of silverware remained below its low estimate.
1790 President Washington settles in New York
2012 SOLD 780 K$ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
George Washington is elected first President of the United States on March 4, 1789. New York is chosen as thetemporary capital, and the President is settling in a house in Broadway.
The general is now a public man. He endeavours to take great care in the furnishing of his residence, in order to influence visitors to a lifestyle consistent with his beliefs.
After dinner, they like to meet with friends and uncork bottles of Madeira and Claret. The President commissioned fourwine coolers, which are indeed actual models of the American pragmatism. It is a design just made to be effective, onecentury before Arts and Crafts!
One of these pieces, made in 1790, is estimated $ 400K, for sale by Christie's in New York on January 19. Here is the link to the catalog.
It is an oval bucket of 45 cm in its greater length, with four galleries for avoiding that the bottles collide. The onlydecoration of this austere work consists of two heads of lions, one on each side, holding in the mouth a ring used as a circular handle.
Moreover, it is made in an alloy of silver and copper, not in solid silver, reinforcing the idea that these pioneers wanted to reject extravagance, in full contrast from their former British colonial power.
This piece is sold by the descendants of Alexander Hamilton, the regular and famous collaborator of Washington. The President presented it to him when coming back to Mount Vernon after completing his second term.
POST SALE COMMENT
Excellent result, far beyond the estimate, for this piece full of history: $ 780K including premium.
George Washington is elected first President of the United States on March 4, 1789. New York is chosen as thetemporary capital, and the President is settling in a house in Broadway.
The general is now a public man. He endeavours to take great care in the furnishing of his residence, in order to influence visitors to a lifestyle consistent with his beliefs.
After dinner, they like to meet with friends and uncork bottles of Madeira and Claret. The President commissioned fourwine coolers, which are indeed actual models of the American pragmatism. It is a design just made to be effective, onecentury before Arts and Crafts!
One of these pieces, made in 1790, is estimated $ 400K, for sale by Christie's in New York on January 19. Here is the link to the catalog.
It is an oval bucket of 45 cm in its greater length, with four galleries for avoiding that the bottles collide. The onlydecoration of this austere work consists of two heads of lions, one on each side, holding in the mouth a ring used as a circular handle.
Moreover, it is made in an alloy of silver and copper, not in solid silver, reinforcing the idea that these pioneers wanted to reject extravagance, in full contrast from their former British colonial power.
This piece is sold by the descendants of Alexander Hamilton, the regular and famous collaborator of Washington. The President presented it to him when coming back to Mount Vernon after completing his second term.
POST SALE COMMENT
Excellent result, far beyond the estimate, for this piece full of history: $ 780K including premium.
1790 the gold of auguste
2015 unsold
The most famous French orfèvres in the neo-classical period are Auguste, Biennais and Odiot. The French word orfèvre means altogether goldsmith and silversmith.
Henri Auguste specialized in vermeil and gold. Received maître in 1785, he succeeded his father as head of the family workshop with the appointment of orfèvre du roi. His work in very elegant forms followed the models and drawings by the sculptor Jean-Guillaume Moitte.
The very eccentric William Beckford, immensely rich, was one of the most important collectors of his time, eager to find the most luxurious pieces for furnishing his mansion. Later he will have built by James Wyatt for his personal residence the most breathtaking gothic folly of his time, named Fonthill Abbey, designed to shelter his treasures.
Beckford admired the pieces produced by Auguste and passed him several orders. A neoclassical gold ewer 29 cm high and weighing 857 grams made in 1790 by Auguste for Beckford is estimated € 1.2M for sale on November 4 in Paris by Christie's, lot 519.
This ewer comes now from the family of the comtesse de Béhague, the famous collector of the early twentieth century who had acquired the deserved reputation to know recognizing the best
Henri Auguste specialized in vermeil and gold. Received maître in 1785, he succeeded his father as head of the family workshop with the appointment of orfèvre du roi. His work in very elegant forms followed the models and drawings by the sculptor Jean-Guillaume Moitte.
The very eccentric William Beckford, immensely rich, was one of the most important collectors of his time, eager to find the most luxurious pieces for furnishing his mansion. Later he will have built by James Wyatt for his personal residence the most breathtaking gothic folly of his time, named Fonthill Abbey, designed to shelter his treasures.
Beckford admired the pieces produced by Auguste and passed him several orders. A neoclassical gold ewer 29 cm high and weighing 857 grams made in 1790 by Auguste for Beckford is estimated € 1.2M for sale on November 4 in Paris by Christie's, lot 519.
This ewer comes now from the family of the comtesse de Béhague, the famous collector of the early twentieth century who had acquired the deserved reputation to know recognizing the best
Préparez-vous à l'ouverture de la vente The #ExceptionalSale dans une heure. En live sur : https://t.co/OhH23Mp0OY pic.twitter.com/4cY7U0yr3R
— Christie's Paris (@christiesparis) November 4, 20151798 From a Parish in Massachusetts
2010 SOLD 206 K$ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
The Americana sales held each January in New York represent a very good opportunity to look at the history of Massachusetts. Indeed in the very active area of Boston and Salem, American furniture and furnishings went to their critical development in the late eighteenth century.
Separated from Salem in 1668, Beverly greets the rise of the cotton industry in the late 1780s. In 1798, the parish church is supplied with an important silver urn bearing the mark of Paul Revere. I already mentioned, exactly one year ago, this Boston silversmith who had been in 1775 an iconic hero of American independence.
The Church of Beverly is selling at Christie's in New York on January 21 a dozen pieces of ancient silver. Among them, the Revere urn is estimated $ 200K. It has the form of a coffee ewer, but in large size: 40 cm high. It weighs just over 900 grams.
POST SALE COMMENT
This ewer was sold 206 K$ including premium. So it did not reach its lower estimate.
The Americana sales held each January in New York represent a very good opportunity to look at the history of Massachusetts. Indeed in the very active area of Boston and Salem, American furniture and furnishings went to their critical development in the late eighteenth century.
Separated from Salem in 1668, Beverly greets the rise of the cotton industry in the late 1780s. In 1798, the parish church is supplied with an important silver urn bearing the mark of Paul Revere. I already mentioned, exactly one year ago, this Boston silversmith who had been in 1775 an iconic hero of American independence.
The Church of Beverly is selling at Christie's in New York on January 21 a dozen pieces of ancient silver. Among them, the Revere urn is estimated $ 200K. It has the form of a coffee ewer, but in large size: 40 cm high. It weighs just over 900 grams.
POST SALE COMMENT
This ewer was sold 206 K$ including premium. So it did not reach its lower estimate.
1799 gold services in st. petersburg
2016 unsold
Catherine II introduced the European luxury in Russia. Gifts are already a common practice in the Russian court and favorites and heirs receive sumptuous services in precious metals.
The Orloff silver service is made in Paris from 1770 to 1773. A tureen weighing 11960 grams was sold for € 1.78M including premium by Christie's on November 8, 2013.
The growing interest in luxury attracts foreign silversmiths in St. Petersburg. Iwar Wenfeldt Buch, accepted into the guild in 1776, executes liturgical pieces and tea services in silver and gold for the imperial family. His style is neoclassical.
In 1798, the two elder daughters of Emperor Paul I, Alexandra and Elena, are pretty girls 15 and 14 years old ready to be married. The negotiations are successful for Elena Pavlovna with the heir to the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin and for Alexandra with a Habsburg prince.
The imperial family prepares dowries without waiting for the proclamation of the marriages. Buch realizes for Elena a tea and coffee service in two colors of gold. Gold is prepared by melting pieces provided by the court from the imperial treasure. The documents recording these decisions have been retrieved in the imperial archives.
The service is presented to Elena at the beginning of 1799. Remaining complete of its thirteen pieces including a significant grand cabaret (tray) for a total gold weight of 7433 grams, it is estimated $ 1.5M for sale by Christie's in New York on April 13, lot 15.
The two princesses married their princes in October 1799.
The Orloff silver service is made in Paris from 1770 to 1773. A tureen weighing 11960 grams was sold for € 1.78M including premium by Christie's on November 8, 2013.
The growing interest in luxury attracts foreign silversmiths in St. Petersburg. Iwar Wenfeldt Buch, accepted into the guild in 1776, executes liturgical pieces and tea services in silver and gold for the imperial family. His style is neoclassical.
In 1798, the two elder daughters of Emperor Paul I, Alexandra and Elena, are pretty girls 15 and 14 years old ready to be married. The negotiations are successful for Elena Pavlovna with the heir to the Grand Duchy of Mecklenburg-Schwerin and for Alexandra with a Habsburg prince.
The imperial family prepares dowries without waiting for the proclamation of the marriages. Buch realizes for Elena a tea and coffee service in two colors of gold. Gold is prepared by melting pieces provided by the court from the imperial treasure. The documents recording these decisions have been retrieved in the imperial archives.
The service is presented to Elena at the beginning of 1799. Remaining complete of its thirteen pieces including a significant grand cabaret (tray) for a total gold weight of 7433 grams, it is estimated $ 1.5M for sale by Christie's in New York on April 13, lot 15.
The two princesses married their princes in October 1799.
1814 Gilt Reward for Colonial Service
2009 SOLD 518 K$ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
The British Crown has always taken care to reward the best success of its servants. In Regency times, this takes the form of huge silver-gilt trophies, richly carved and engraved.
Thomas Maitland was Governor of Ceylon from 1805 to 1811. He had built a mansion, not forgetting to install a secret tunnel that allowed him to meet his beloved Lovina (anglicized as Lavinia). The English history enjoys this kind of affair, so "correct" because the governor was a bachelor.
His reward was a huge silver-gilt centerpiece to be used as a candelabrum made in 1814 and signed by Storr and by Rundell, Bridge and Rundell. Richly sculpted at the base and dominated by a statuette of a sitting Lavinia symbolizing the prosperity of British colonies, this exceptional piece is 87 cm high and weighs 27 Kg.
It is now in New York in the Christie's sale of October 22, where it is estimated 400 K$.
We previously met the firm Rundell, Bridge and Rundell in the Jewels group, about a necklace of emeralds. They exercised the function of Royal goldsmiths, silversmiths, jewelers and medalists since 1797. Since 1807, their workshop was directed by Paul Storr, acknowledged as the best silversmith of his time in London.
Here is the image shared by AuctionPublicity.
POST SALE COMMENT
This massive piece of silverware had real strengths to achieve a good price: a famous silversmith and a single model tied to a historical episode.
It's done: 518 K$ including premium.
The British Crown has always taken care to reward the best success of its servants. In Regency times, this takes the form of huge silver-gilt trophies, richly carved and engraved.
Thomas Maitland was Governor of Ceylon from 1805 to 1811. He had built a mansion, not forgetting to install a secret tunnel that allowed him to meet his beloved Lovina (anglicized as Lavinia). The English history enjoys this kind of affair, so "correct" because the governor was a bachelor.
His reward was a huge silver-gilt centerpiece to be used as a candelabrum made in 1814 and signed by Storr and by Rundell, Bridge and Rundell. Richly sculpted at the base and dominated by a statuette of a sitting Lavinia symbolizing the prosperity of British colonies, this exceptional piece is 87 cm high and weighs 27 Kg.
It is now in New York in the Christie's sale of October 22, where it is estimated 400 K$.
We previously met the firm Rundell, Bridge and Rundell in the Jewels group, about a necklace of emeralds. They exercised the function of Royal goldsmiths, silversmiths, jewelers and medalists since 1797. Since 1807, their workshop was directed by Paul Storr, acknowledged as the best silversmith of his time in London.
Here is the image shared by AuctionPublicity.
POST SALE COMMENT
This massive piece of silverware had real strengths to achieve a good price: a famous silversmith and a single model tied to a historical episode.
It's done: 518 K$ including premium.
1821-1824 The Table Service of the Grand Duchess of Baden
2008 SOLD 1.9 M$ including premium
The fall of Napoleon in 1815 did not immediately led to the end of the influence of the Bonaparte family and its allies in Europe. With 1 million inhabitants, the Duchy of Baden was governed by the Grand Duke, from the family of the former Electors of that German province, and his wife Stephanie de Beauharnais.
In parallel, the silversmith Odiot, who had provided regularly some silverware to the Imperials, continued to work after 1815 for this family scattered throughout Europe.
77 pieces of the table service provided by Odiot to the Grand Duchess through several orders between 1821 and 1824 have remained together, and constitute the lot 106 of the sale of Sotheby's in New York on November 6. The total weight of silver is 90 Kg
These pieces of silverware (a soup tureen weighing 9 kg, cups, salts, dishes and plates) are decorated with sirens, putti, grapes and laurels, according to models available in the catalog of Odiot since 1806. All parts are marked with the arms of the Grand Duchy of Baden.
The estimated price of this exceptional lot is $ 2 million.
POST SALE COMMENT
I consider this result as very good: $ 1.9 million including expenses. The lower estimate has not been reached, but it was not easy to predict the price of such a package.
In parallel, the silversmith Odiot, who had provided regularly some silverware to the Imperials, continued to work after 1815 for this family scattered throughout Europe.
77 pieces of the table service provided by Odiot to the Grand Duchess through several orders between 1821 and 1824 have remained together, and constitute the lot 106 of the sale of Sotheby's in New York on November 6. The total weight of silver is 90 Kg
These pieces of silverware (a soup tureen weighing 9 kg, cups, salts, dishes and plates) are decorated with sirens, putti, grapes and laurels, according to models available in the catalog of Odiot since 1806. All parts are marked with the arms of the Grand Duchy of Baden.
The estimated price of this exceptional lot is $ 2 million.
POST SALE COMMENT
I consider this result as very good: $ 1.9 million including expenses. The lower estimate has not been reached, but it was not easy to predict the price of such a package.
1824 The Silverware of the Duke of York
2017 SOLD for £ 1.04M including premium
The Duke of York, second son of King George III, spends without limits and loves the heroic antiquity that flatters his brilliant military career in the Napoleonic wars. The antique dealer Kensington Lewis took advantage of the weakness of this prince to procure him at very high prices extravagant pieces of silverware that are made in London by Edward Farrell.
On March 22 in London, Christie's sells a centerpiece in massive silver gilt on the theme of Hercules' victorious fight against the Lernaean Hydra, marked by Farrell in 1824, lot 200 estimated £ 400K.
This group 89 cm high weighing 35 kg showing Hercules in full action was made in the taste of the baroque silverware from Augsburg. Hercules draped with the skin of the lion dominates, helped by his nephew Iolaus. The nine heads of the monster serve as candle-holders in an irregular circumference. The artist did not omit the giant crab that attempts a counterattack on the leg of the hero.
Presumptive heir to the throne since 1820, the duke died in January 1827, leaving a debt so large that its evaluation was impossible. His estate is immediately auctioned by Christie's. The Hercules, which appears to be Lewis' most important piece of silverware in that sale, was not in the fashion of George IV style. Its very low result is a disavowal for Lewis who had lost his naive customer and will soon go bankrupt.
On March 22 in London, Christie's sells a centerpiece in massive silver gilt on the theme of Hercules' victorious fight against the Lernaean Hydra, marked by Farrell in 1824, lot 200 estimated £ 400K.
This group 89 cm high weighing 35 kg showing Hercules in full action was made in the taste of the baroque silverware from Augsburg. Hercules draped with the skin of the lion dominates, helped by his nephew Iolaus. The nine heads of the monster serve as candle-holders in an irregular circumference. The artist did not omit the giant crab that attempts a counterattack on the leg of the hero.
Presumptive heir to the throne since 1820, the duke died in January 1827, leaving a debt so large that its evaluation was impossible. His estate is immediately auctioned by Christie's. The Hercules, which appears to be Lewis' most important piece of silverware in that sale, was not in the fashion of George IV style. Its very low result is a disavowal for Lewis who had lost his naive customer and will soon go bankrupt.
The Robert De Balkany Collection achieves exceptional results, totalling over £15 million with a 99% sell-through rate. pic.twitter.com/e3Q6zRV3rG
— Christie's (@ChristiesInc) March 24, 2017
1834-1837 How Garrard composed his Chandeliers
2009 SOLD 215 K£ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
In the history of jewelry, one can not ignore the name of Garrard & Co. The company founded in 1735, and which still exists, was responsible from 1843 for the upkeep of the jewels of the British Crown.
This house is also distinguished for its silverware. A chandelier provided by them between 1834 and 1837 has been just removed from a villa of Cap-Ferrat, to be sold by Sotheby's in London on July 7.
This large piece, 122cm high and 118cm in diameter, is estimated 80 K £. It was built from earliest elements whose origin has been assessed, some being made in 1733-1734 in Antwerp, others in Lisbon between 1790 and 1795.
The catalog provides interesting details. This type of assembly was a common practice, which is known from other examples at Garrard. The purchases were made at very low prices in the auctions, and the customer of the finished product was informed of the origin of these elements.
POST SALE COMMENT
This piece signed Garrard, large size, was more important than its estimate, of course. It was sold 215 K £ including premium.
In the history of jewelry, one can not ignore the name of Garrard & Co. The company founded in 1735, and which still exists, was responsible from 1843 for the upkeep of the jewels of the British Crown.
This house is also distinguished for its silverware. A chandelier provided by them between 1834 and 1837 has been just removed from a villa of Cap-Ferrat, to be sold by Sotheby's in London on July 7.
This large piece, 122cm high and 118cm in diameter, is estimated 80 K £. It was built from earliest elements whose origin has been assessed, some being made in 1733-1734 in Antwerp, others in Lisbon between 1790 and 1795.
The catalog provides interesting details. This type of assembly was a common practice, which is known from other examples at Garrard. The purchases were made at very low prices in the auctions, and the customer of the finished product was informed of the origin of these elements.
POST SALE COMMENT
This piece signed Garrard, large size, was more important than its estimate, of course. It was sold 215 K £ including premium.
1861 A Trophy for Lincoln ... in Silver Alloy
2009 Unsold
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
In the descriptions of the auction house, Cowan's, it is a ewer or a pitcher. I would say that this piece of silverware is a trophy. This is a massive 35 cm high piece, weighing 55 Ozt, ie 1.7 kg. It is ovoid on a base, and topped by a thick cylindrical neck. The decor is neo-Greek, with an angular handle which ends in a molded helmet.
Like any good piece of silverware, it has some inscriptions: the stamp of JC Moore and Son for Tiffany & Co / 550 Broadway, and the composition of the metal. It is sterling, official name of an alloy with 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper.
Above all, it is dedicated to the United States President Abraham Lincoln from his friends in Washington, 4 March 1861 (date of the first inauguration of Lincoln). This has allowed the auction house to make some mediatic release around it, but telling also that its origin was not found. Therefore, it is unclear whether the President has actually received it.
The sale is on June 6 at Cincinnati, on an estimate of $ 300 K which seems expensive for an alloy.
In the descriptions of the auction house, Cowan's, it is a ewer or a pitcher. I would say that this piece of silverware is a trophy. This is a massive 35 cm high piece, weighing 55 Ozt, ie 1.7 kg. It is ovoid on a base, and topped by a thick cylindrical neck. The decor is neo-Greek, with an angular handle which ends in a molded helmet.
Like any good piece of silverware, it has some inscriptions: the stamp of JC Moore and Son for Tiffany & Co / 550 Broadway, and the composition of the metal. It is sterling, official name of an alloy with 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper.
Above all, it is dedicated to the United States President Abraham Lincoln from his friends in Washington, 4 March 1861 (date of the first inauguration of Lincoln). This has allowed the auction house to make some mediatic release around it, but telling also that its origin was not found. Therefore, it is unclear whether the President has actually received it.
The sale is on June 6 at Cincinnati, on an estimate of $ 300 K which seems expensive for an alloy.
1883 PRESENTED FROM SMOLENSK
2010 UNSOLD
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
Nothing is too luxurious when the goal is to capture the attention of the Emperor of Russia. Even practices of humble origin, like the presentation of bread and salt, are an opportunity to display wealth.
In 1883, for a successful visit to the new Tsar Alexander III, the nobles of Smolensk had commissioned a presentation charger by one of the oldest and most famous silversmith houses of St. Petersburg, Sazikov.
This is a parcel gilt silver piece of 45 cm diameter with complicated edge, decorated with enamel plaques. It is centered with a griffin and other imperial attributes such as crown and eagles. All around twelve lobes underline small round pictures of guns in the Smolensk countryside. An inscription in honor of the Emperor reminds an honor that he might not forget: he also has the title of Grand Duke of Smolensk.
At that time, the head enameller of Sazikov was Feodor Rückert. This artist then began a successful career: I've already told you the sale at $ 480 K of a punch bowl, by Sotheby's on April 22, 2009.
The Smolensk charger is for sale at Christie's in New York on April 23. It is estimated $ 400K.
Nothing is too luxurious when the goal is to capture the attention of the Emperor of Russia. Even practices of humble origin, like the presentation of bread and salt, are an opportunity to display wealth.
In 1883, for a successful visit to the new Tsar Alexander III, the nobles of Smolensk had commissioned a presentation charger by one of the oldest and most famous silversmith houses of St. Petersburg, Sazikov.
This is a parcel gilt silver piece of 45 cm diameter with complicated edge, decorated with enamel plaques. It is centered with a griffin and other imperial attributes such as crown and eagles. All around twelve lobes underline small round pictures of guns in the Smolensk countryside. An inscription in honor of the Emperor reminds an honor that he might not forget: he also has the title of Grand Duke of Smolensk.
At that time, the head enameller of Sazikov was Feodor Rückert. This artist then began a successful career: I've already told you the sale at $ 480 K of a punch bowl, by Sotheby's on April 22, 2009.
The Smolensk charger is for sale at Christie's in New York on April 23. It is estimated $ 400K.
1910 SYMBOLS OF RUSSIA ON A PUNCH BOWL
2009 SOLD 480 K$ INCLUDING PREMIUM
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
Here is a large bowl in enameled gilded silver, which displays in a very tight high relief the symbols of old Russia. This important piece of 30 cm in diameter is large enough to accommodate all the issues, as you can know it below.
The lower part shows a frieze of flying eagles. Above, we see old characters: boyars and women in the Russian tradition. The rim is decorated with a frieze of black bears in a snowy landscape, and the handles are shaped as the head of this animal.
The variety of the colors painted on the enamel make of this piece, and its ladle that accompanies it in the sale of Sotheby's in New York on April 22, a technical feat. This set was made around 1910 in Moscow by Feodor Rückert, who was a supplier of Fabergé. We cannot overestimate the unique role, direct and indirect, of the Fabergé company in the history of art.
This lot is estimated 150 K $.
POST SALE COMMENT
This piece reported as extremely rare also had the advantage of a highly symbolic decoration. Buyers followed: K $ 480 inclusive.
Here is a large bowl in enameled gilded silver, which displays in a very tight high relief the symbols of old Russia. This important piece of 30 cm in diameter is large enough to accommodate all the issues, as you can know it below.
The lower part shows a frieze of flying eagles. Above, we see old characters: boyars and women in the Russian tradition. The rim is decorated with a frieze of black bears in a snowy landscape, and the handles are shaped as the head of this animal.
The variety of the colors painted on the enamel make of this piece, and its ladle that accompanies it in the sale of Sotheby's in New York on April 22, a technical feat. This set was made around 1910 in Moscow by Feodor Rückert, who was a supplier of Fabergé. We cannot overestimate the unique role, direct and indirect, of the Fabergé company in the history of art.
This lot is estimated 150 K $.
POST SALE COMMENT
This piece reported as extremely rare also had the advantage of a highly symbolic decoration. Buyers followed: K $ 480 inclusive.
1926 Bugatti and Bugatti, with Force and Agility
2009 SOLD 300 K€ including premium
PRE SALE DISCUSSION
The creations of Rembrandt Bugatti and Ettore Bugatti get top results at auctions, each in its category. It is unusual for a work to meet the memory of both brothers.
In 1926, ten years after the sculptor's death, the Molsheim manufacturer creates the Bugatti Royale, the most luxurious vehicle in the history of the automobile. Six copies are produced, including the personal car of the boss.
To choose the radiator cap, Ettore finds in the works of his brother a plaster dating from 1904, showing an elephant acrobat. This animal, varying his position from the realistic specimens observed by Rembrandt in the Antwerp Zoo, is shown standing very straight on his hind legs, the trunk upward in the alignment of the body, the front legs to the horizontal. It was an ideal subject to symbolize both the strength and flexibility of the new car.
Ettore had this work edited by lost wax casting in silver, made by Valsuani who had been one off only two bronze editors of Rembrandt.
The copy fitted on Ettore's Royale had been carefully preserved to this day in the Schlumpf collection. This towering cap 19 cm high will be sold in Molsheim on July 5. The Etude Gasser Audhuy, usually operating in Strasbourg and organizer of the sale, does not give an estimate for this lot. This work presents so many unique features that we do not know at which level the bidding will stop.
La Gazette Drouot chose this piece as their heart felt regional lot this week, and indicates the estimate: 80 K €.
POST SALE COMMENT
The memory of the two Bugattis was a source of added value, definitely. The result was announced by the newspapers: 238 K € before fees.
Of the six copies of this silver elephant, the one just being sold was the only copy to be located. It is not known what happened to the others. With the confirmation of this information, we understand even better the price.
Congratulations to Etude Gasser Audhuy which is one of the most recent French auction houses.
The creations of Rembrandt Bugatti and Ettore Bugatti get top results at auctions, each in its category. It is unusual for a work to meet the memory of both brothers.
In 1926, ten years after the sculptor's death, the Molsheim manufacturer creates the Bugatti Royale, the most luxurious vehicle in the history of the automobile. Six copies are produced, including the personal car of the boss.
To choose the radiator cap, Ettore finds in the works of his brother a plaster dating from 1904, showing an elephant acrobat. This animal, varying his position from the realistic specimens observed by Rembrandt in the Antwerp Zoo, is shown standing very straight on his hind legs, the trunk upward in the alignment of the body, the front legs to the horizontal. It was an ideal subject to symbolize both the strength and flexibility of the new car.
Ettore had this work edited by lost wax casting in silver, made by Valsuani who had been one off only two bronze editors of Rembrandt.
The copy fitted on Ettore's Royale had been carefully preserved to this day in the Schlumpf collection. This towering cap 19 cm high will be sold in Molsheim on July 5. The Etude Gasser Audhuy, usually operating in Strasbourg and organizer of the sale, does not give an estimate for this lot. This work presents so many unique features that we do not know at which level the bidding will stop.
La Gazette Drouot chose this piece as their heart felt regional lot this week, and indicates the estimate: 80 K €.
POST SALE COMMENT
The memory of the two Bugattis was a source of added value, definitely. The result was announced by the newspapers: 238 K € before fees.
Of the six copies of this silver elephant, the one just being sold was the only copy to be located. It is not known what happened to the others. With the confirmation of this information, we understand even better the price.
Congratulations to Etude Gasser Audhuy which is one of the most recent French auction houses.
