A fine gilt-bronze-mounted alabaster fountain Louis XVI, late 18th century

in the form of a neo-classical vase and cover, the domed cover with a pinecone finial above an ovoid body, the rim with a band of watery stalactites with a spirally twisted leaf cast handle terminating in a ram's mask and drapery on each side, on a trumpet foot with a reeded gilt-metal band; restorations

Sir Philip Sassoon Bt., London, 25 Park Lane, W1, recorded in the Dining Room in the pre-1927 inventory and in July 1939.
Thence by descent
Sold Christie's, London, 1st December 2005, lot 85 as the property of the Marquess of Cholmondeley, Houghton Hall Norfolk  

Colour less yellow more natural and attractive than in the catalogue illustration and gilding more golden and less greenish. Old minor marks and chips commensurate with age. Very attractive detail to casting. The mounts are slightly dirty and would benefit from a light clean according to taste. Old restorations which have been very well executed and small areas of infill which are not too noticeable due to the mottling of the alabaster. In overall good condition. A very unusual and attractive example of a table fountain.Recommended.
"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."

Comparative Literature:
Pierre Kjellberg, Les Objets montés du Moyen Age à nos jours, Paris, 2000.

These small fountains were often a feature in 18th century dining rooms and the band of water around the neck and the mask of possibly Neptune reinforces its function.

In the second half of the 18th century in France, they developed the taste for objects carved from precious stones not only from France but also from other countries. The Parisian marchands-merciers encouraged this new taste amongst their rich clientele and commissioned the most reputable sculptors and bronziers to make these objects, combining precious stones and gilt-bronze in the neo-classical style.