- 196
An ivory-handled silver government desk seal, engraved by Benjamin Wyon, R. & S. Garrard, London, 1837
Estimate
3,000 - 4,000 GBP
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Description
- An ivory-handled silver government desk seal, engraved by Benjamin Wyon, R. & S. Garrard, London, 1837
- silver, ivory
- 11cm., 4 1/4 in. high
the circular silver matrix engraved with the harp of Ireland below the Royal crown, within the legend: VICTORIA D.G. BRITANNIARUM REGINA FID. DEF., makers' mark, the rim engraved: Benjamin Wyon, chief engraver of Her Majesty's Seals
Condition
clear marks and crisp engraving and matrix despite obvious office use (silver stem slightly bent and stains on silver base), hairline crack on top of ivory handle.
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
Benjamin Wyon (1802-1858), scion of the celebrated family of coin, seal and medal engravers, was appointed Chief Engraver to the Royal Mint in 1831. He engraved the Great Seals for both William IV (1831) and for Queen Victoria (1837) as well as many other official and government seals. The crowned harp had been used as the heraldic badge of Ireland since the reign of Henry VIII.