- 178
A massive parcel-gilt silver and painted enamel nef, Vienna, circa 1880
Estimate
100,000 - 150,000 GBP
Log in to view results
bidding is closed
Description
- A massive parcel-gilt silver and painted enamel nef, Vienna, circa 1880
- silver, enamel,
- 110cm, 43 1/4 in high
the cup and cover formed as a galleon in full sail, the three masts entwined with flower garlands, each side of the sails, the hull and the domed base with painted mythological subjects enclosed within enamelled openwork scrolling foliage enhanced with busts, the bowl supported by seated mermaids, the base surrounded by the figures of six seated musicians and six standing nymphs, the deck and rigging busily inhabited by the enamelled figures of sailors at work and play, further musicians lining the deckside, apparently unmarked
Condition
A few losses to enamel on mounts and figures, would benefit from professional cleaning. Overall good condition. Please note that this is a cup and cover, the top removes to reveal the painted bowl.
A magnificent and rare exhibition piece.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
Catalogue Note
This nef appears to be unmarked but is very similar to two other imposing silver-gilt and enamel nefs by Herman Böhm, sale, Sotheby’s Belgravia, 13 December 1979, lots 264 and 270. The firm specialised in splendidly large and elaborate pieces in painted enamel, rock crystal and lapis lazuli, mainly for the export market. See also a pair of large silver-gilt, enamel and lapis lazuli centrepiece vases, 57cm high and a clock tower, 70cm high, as well as a large silver, enamel and ivory casket on stand, 134cm high overall, Christie's London, 22 March 2001, lot 44, 45, and 77.