A George III ebonised and parcel-gilt torchère circa 1785

with three moulded ram's headed monopodia entwined with serpents on a moulded triform plinth raised on gilt-metal bun feet, redecorated

Possibly one from a pair sold Christie's London, 20 February, 1958 and then with H. Blairman & Sons Ltd., Grafton Street, London, where acquired by Wilfrid Evill (£100) in the late 1950s and thence by descent to Honor Frost.

This highly unusual torchére is in good overall condition but with signs of wear. There is surface dirt and minor chips to some carved and cast decoration. Theer are some separations, cracks and loose elements especially to the snakes. Formerly wired as a standard lamp and there are signs of this at the very top, originally it would have supported a giltwood candelabrum. The central stem has losses to decoration.
"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."

This striking torchére appears identical to a pair in the Palladio Room at Clandon Park, Surrey. These were probably acquired by George Onslow, later Baron Cranley, Viscount Cranley and 1st Lord Onslow. A Lord in waiting to George III, he was also on intimate terms with George, the Prince of Wales.

Others of the same design, or possibly even from the same suite, have sold, Christies, New York, 29 April 1992, lot 56 and Sotheby's New York, 22 January 1994, lot 185 from the Collection of The Honorable C. Douglas Dillion.

See Ralph Edwards, The Dictionary of English Furniture, 1953, vol. III, p. 152, fig. 27.