- 432
Gold and enamel tobacco box, Geneva, circa 1820
Description
- gold, enamel
Provenance
Condition
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. 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 refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
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
The Most Noble Order of the Garter was founded by King Edward III in 1348. It is the senior British Order of Knighthood and one of the oldest and most esteemed in the world. The motto Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense in Old French translates as 'Shame to him, who evil thinks'. This statement is thought to have originated from an incident at a reception where the Countess of Salisbury's garter broke and fell to the floor. King Edward is supposed to have picked it up and noticing the onlookers comments and expressions rebuked them with the words, "Dishonoured be he who thinks evil of it." Membership of the Order of the Garter is limited to the reigning monarch, the Prince of Wales and twenty-four Christian Knights and ladies. Selected Royal Heads of State are admitted and known as Extra Knights and Ladies of the Garter. A garter of dark blue velvet is worn by the British Sovereign. Gentlemen wear it on the left leg below the knee and lady members on the left arm above the elbow.
For an example of the Duke of Cambridge’s use of this monogram, see a silver tray, Paul Storr, London, 1812/13, in the Royal Collection, no. 47335.