An engraved Privateer claret decanter the glass possibly French or Belgian, circa 1750

of soda glass, the shouldered form engraved with a simulated wine label inscribed CLARET, suspended from a chain around the neck, the reverse with a two-masted ship portrait and inscribed Succesfs to. y^{e Good Intent/ Jas Brooks Commanr,} the rim folded over

There is some typical water clouding top the lower interior of the decanter, measuring generally 2.5cm in depth but extending in places to 5cm (especially below the vine leaf directly under the 'T' of CLARET. There is also a small area of scratching to the space directly above the word 'Commanr.' Whilst there is some further very minor typical rubbing the decanter is generally in good conditon.
"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."

A similarly engraved claret decanter bearing the same inscription but with its neck severely reduced, is illustrated by Joh Shuckburgh Risley, 'Sea-power under George III, illustrated on Contemporary Glass', The Burlington Magazine, Vol.35, no.200, November 1919, p.202 and described p.204. From its rigging, sail formation and style, the author suggests that The Good Intent was a Privateer vessel.

The 'Good Intent' is recorded by D.Powell, Bristol Privateers and Ships of War, p.306. She had 15 guns and weighed 180 tons. In May 1793, under the captaincy of Cornelius Smith, she was engaged in battle with a French privateer and was eventually taken as a prize some 3 months later by the privateer Marsellois.

The possible reason for the Continental origin of the decanter may be linked to the ship sailing to the ports of France and Belgium where glass may have been commissioned in the English style. Commander Brooks may have docked on the Belgian coast where such plain decanters were readily available.