A Victorian parcel-gilt silver hot water urn, Elkington & Co., Birmingham, the design attributed to Emile Jeannest, 1856

the shaped square base supporting a strongly molded pedestal with vigorous foliage, mustachioed faces, and laurel swags, the lower body gadrooned, the upper body centered on each side by an oval plaque, the front with Venus on a shell with attendant cupids, the back with a nymph riding a dolphin, also with cupid attendants, surrounded by chased strapwork and foliage, pendants of berried ivy, masks with rams' horns and putti blowing horns, the handles formed as embracing demi-children echoed by the handle with dolphin spout, the finial modeled as a classical maiden at her toilet, the attendant cupid holding a mirror



 

some overall wear, particularly to gilding, otherwise good, strong and vigorous modeling, great example of its period
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This urn may have been one of the last works of Emile Jeannest, who worked for Minton's before heading Elkington's fine art department from 1849/50 until his death in early 1857; there are also parallels with his successor in that department, A. A. Willms.