A Victorian silver "Mermaid and Triton" vase, John S. Hunt, London, 1854

the base chased with rushing water from which rise a mermaid and triton, flanking a water-lily pattern body flanked by cat-tails, marked on base rim

engraving probably removed from reserve on base, some minor repairs to rim, otherwise good, well modeled
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.

The figures of the triton and mermaid seem to first appear on a pair of tureens by Robert Garrard II for the Earl of Harborough in 1819, but Joseph Bliss suggests the model was borrowed from Paul Storr, as Storr used them on a pair of soup tureens of 1820-21 for the Duke of Devonshire, and another pair of 1822 for the Sampaio service.  Both firms continued to use the figures, including a nine-light centerpiece by Storr & Mortimer, 1838 (Culme p. 146).  After Storr retired that year, the models were obviously retained by Mortimer and John S. Hunt, who had been admitted earlier as a partner.