A Chinese Export Armorial Punch Bowl Circa 1750

with the arms of the Society of Bucks.

Gordon, 1977, color pl. I

Good condition. There are a few black iron spots in the interior of hte bowl and a small patch of discoloration left of hte stag crest on the interior. There is a very minor pinhead chip to the rim edge.
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 Society of Bucks, also known as The Noble Order of Bucks, existed from 1723 to 1802, but reached its height in the 1750s and 1780s.

There are at least four known services made for the Society. The present lot, and another very similar punch bowl with a spearhead border, illustrated by Howard, 1974, Vol I, p. 452, no. P16, bear the original arms and were therefore presumably made prior to 1757, when a new armorial design was engraved by James Saddler. The diaper border on the present lot suggests it was made at a slightly earlier date than the one illustrated by Howard.  A punch bowl from the Hodroff collection with this design and a spearhead border was sold at Christie's New York, Jauary 24, 2007, lot 82. The other two services with the updated arms and are illustrated by Howard, 1974, Vol I, pp. 452 and 273, nos. P16 and F7, dated circa 1758 and 1760.