A large george VI silver model of a stallion, signed and dated Gilbert Bayes / 1941, maker's mark JM & Co, London, 1941

incorporating the motto 'INVICTA', on octagonal rotating wood plinth

Aveling-Barford Ltd, Grantham

Condition of the stallion and marks very good; the wood plinth is a little distressed, a unique object and rare example of Bayes' work executed in silver. For further queries regarding this lot please contact the Silver Department directly on +44(0)207.293.5100.
"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."

Aveling-Barford Ltd of Invicta Works, Grantham, Lincolnshire, was a manufacturer of dumper trucks, road rollers and other heavy vehicles. It was formed by the amalgamation in 1934 of two much older, failed companies: Aveling & Porter of Rochester, Kent, and Barford & Perkins of Peterborough. Aveling-Barford Ltd was acquired by Leyland in 1968.

The Aveling-Barford silver stallion logo comprising this present lot appears to have been commissioned from Gilbert Bayes and made in connection with the company's new Invicta Works. According to the company's annual statements at this time, it was trading well in spite of the difficulties arising from wartime conditions.

The well-known British sculptor and medallist Gilbert William Bayes (1872-1953) was born in London and studied under Sir George Frampton and Harry Bates. Perhaps his most visible works in London are the enamelled bronze 'Queen of Time' clock of 1925 over the main entrance of Selfridge's store in Oxford Street; and the long frieze of 1931 representing the history of drama on the Saville Theatre (now the Odeon Cinema), Shaftesbury Avenue.