A nineteenth century Stourbridge clear crystal claret jug with Victorian silver-gilt mounts, James & Nathaniel Creswick, London, 1854

the baluster-shaped body etched with a scene of a figure kneeling before a tent and two camels all amongst palm trees, scrolling grapevine mounts, high vine scroll handle

Some tiny chips to glass at rim of spout, otherwise in overall good condition.
"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."

The etched Orientalist scene on this lot relates to the West's fascination with Eastern cultures that manifested itself through the arts during the mid-19th Century. Alongside the most popular painters of the day such as Jean August Dominique Ingres and Eugène Delacroix, whose output included scenes of North Africa and Turkish baths, silversmiths and ceramics and glass manufacturers were creating articles representing the same themes. A related example in silver to the scene on this claret jug called The Well in the Desert was exhibited by Smith, Nicholson & Co. at the 1851 Great Exhibition.¹

 

1. Great Exhibition of the Works of Industry of all Nations 1851, Official Descriptive and Illistrated Catalogue, Vol. II, Spicer Brothers, London, 1851, illustrated p.691.