A STAFFORDSHIRE PEARLWARE GROUP OF 'THE NEW MARRIAGE ACT' CIRCA 1825-30

modeled as a young couple standing arm-in-arm and the clerk with his hands clasped on either end of a table as the parson reads the marriage service within an arched alcove on a marbleized stepped base. Some minor restoration, minor haircrack.

D. M. & P. Manheim Antiques, New York

There is a minor 1 1/2-in. fine haircrack extending downwards from the top edge of the arch. The right arm of the groom and the left arm of the bride are restored; the cleryman's left hand holding the prayer book is restored. The black enamel defining the windows of the alcove ia flaked; there is a small filled chip on the edge of the lower step of the base; a 1/4-in. glaze chip along the same edge; and several very minor pinhead enamel chips to the table.
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The New Marriage Act of 1823 repealed Hardwick's Marriage Act of 1753, which required that, in order to be valid, marriages be performed in accordance with the rules of canon law, including the posting of banns or the issuance of a license. The 1823 Act suspended these requirements, allowing for legal marriages without previous banns or a license, but held the clergyman officiating at such ceremonies responsible for committing a felony.