Lot 226
  • 226

A pair of George III grisaille-painted inlaid satinwood and mahogany urns circa 1795

Estimate
15,000 - 25,000 USD
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Description

  • satinwood, paint, mahogany
  • height 37 3/4 in.; diameter 17 1/4 in.
  • 93.9 cm; 43.8 cm

Condition

In overall good condition. Each top with small chips to the rim. The urns with some minor bruises and the spreading feet with cracks beneath neck that appear to be stable. Possibly repaired breaks. Each base fitted with a hole formerly fitted with a spigot. Overall with usual minor nicks, wear and scratches to extremities. The grisaille painting appears to be refreshed.
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.

Catalogue Note

The present cutlery urns with their beautifully painted banding and satinwood veneers,  surmounted by pinecone finials are very similar to a drawing by Gillows, circa 1796 made in mahogany by Charles Lupton and carved by H. Gibson and supplied to Shakespeare Phillips of Manchester.

The pinecone finial motif appears on other examples supplied by Gillows particularly the finials of the pair of vases on pedestals for the Bell family of Thirske Hall.  (See Susan E. Stuart, Gillows of Lancaster and London, 1730-1840, Woodbridge, 2008, vol. I, pp. 308-315).

The pinecone motif derives from the point of a Thyrsus, or staff which is an attribute of Bacchus and his attendants.  The allusion to Bacchus in a dining room is fitting considering Bacchus is the god of wine and therefore drinking and feasting.