Lot 774
  • 774

A South German turned ivory cup and cover 17th century

Estimate
60,000 - 90,000 USD
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Description

  • ivory
  • height 18 7/8 in.
  • 48 cm
the stepped conical hexagonal foot with concave facets, below similarly faceted baluster stem, the cup of octagonal section, the conforming lid beneath a stepped shaft centered on an open work register supporting a flat octagonal platform with four spiraling columns supporting another octagonal platform, interspersed with tapering upward turned spirals surrounding a hanging ivory bell above a ring-shaped finial, this surmounted by a spire centered upon a pierced sphere containing an internally carved center with emerging tapering spiral points; one side of base painted in ink with "B 96° 11," the lid with identical marking.

Provenance

Axel Vervoordt, Antwerp

Condition

Several repaired cracks to cup. Some replaced sections to upper rim of cup. Hairline age cracks in lid. Repair to stem below platform. Age cracks to platform, some around holes for attachments. Losses and restorations to spirals. Repaired break to upper platform (still some separation to cracks). One flame finial replaced, others with chipping. Some spiral posts emerging from sphere restored or replaced. Small hole at uppermost tip of central finial for previous attachment of lost element. Surface abrasions and wear throughout.
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.

Catalogue Note

A comparable cup in the Danish Royal Kunstkammer at Rosenborg Castle in Copenhagen attributed to the Zick workshop features a similar "bell tower" form comprised of two platforms supported by spiralling columns (Gundestrup 1991, p. 265, DKK 23.89).  The present cup is further distinguished by the pierced sphere with internally-turned center on the finial, recognizable as one of the most technically advanced and visually appealing forms in the turner's repertoire.