A George III silver-gilt canopy bell, John Swift, London, 1761

chased with floral sprays, leafage and scrolls above and below the moulded girdle, ring finial

 

ASSOCIATED LITERATURE:

Michael Clayton, The Collector's Dictionary of the Silver and Gold of Great Britain and North America, Hamlyn Publishing Group Ltd., London, 1971, plate 33c

With some wear to gilding commensurate with age, 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 Barons of the Cinque Ports claimed the right to carry canopies over the heads of the Kings and Queens of England on the day of their coronation. The canopies were supported by silver staves surmounted by bells which were taken by the barons as their perquisites after the ceremonies.

One of the earliest accounts of this privilege is given by Roger de Hoveden who describes the carrying of the canopy of silk at the coronation of Richard I in 1189.

A similar bell from the Coronation of George III is in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London.