A Sèvres cup and saucer (goblet litron of the first size) circa 1793-94

decorated with a beau bleu ground, a gilt laurel wreath medallion enclosing a basket with flowers and fruit against a pale yellow ground, wide bands of elaborate gilt foliage scrollwork just beneath the gilt serrated rims

Lady Sarah Sophia, Countess of Jersey (1785-1867)

It is likely that much of the Sèvres porcelain in the Jersey family collection was initially acquired by Lady Sarah Sophia, wife of George Child Villiers, 5th Earl of Jersey.  She was the eldest daughter of John Fane, 10th Earl of Westmorland (1759-1841) and his first wife Sarah Anne (1764-1793), daughter and sole heir of Robert Child of Osterley Park, Middlesex.  Lady Sarah was heir to the great Child's Bank fortune, giving her an income estimated at some £60,000 per annum.  She became one of the most prominent hostesses and social figures of her generation, entertaining in London at 38 Berkeley Square as well as at Osterley Park, Middlesex and Middleton, Oxfordshire.  She also played an active role as owner and senior partner at Child's Bank, keeping a desk in the office.  

Following her husband's death in October 1859, she commissioned a memorial for the Jersey Chapel at Middleton Stoney (see lot 324).  Their eldest son George Augustus who became 6th Earl of Jersey only outlived his father by three weeks and was in turn succeeded by his son Victor Albert George, 7th Earl of Jersey, then aged 14.  Lady Sarah disdained the excesses of Victorian mourning and continued to entertain, receiving visitors every evening.  She died in London in January 1867 and was buried at Middleton Stoney.

overall in good condition. Two minor light scratches to the ledge in the central panel. Otherwise minor wear to the gilding
"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."

Louis -Antoine le Grand (1776-1817) was employed by the Sèvres factory as a gilder and painter.