In the Manner of Paul de Lamerie, circa 1729-1739

dolphin handle, bodies simulating shells

Sotheby's, London, 20 March 1980, lot 215

light wear to highlights, general condition good.
"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."

A few example of these unusual sauceboats, with Paul de Lamerie's hallmark, are recorded as follows: a pair, dated 1729, from the late Mrs Mary Montagu, sold Sotheby's London, 11 November 1993, lot 462; another pair, with the crest of Thomas Weddell (1667-1747), dated 1730, sold Sotheby's London, 9 November 1995, lot 246 ; and a third pair, with the arms of Hewer, Norfolk, dated 1738, is illustrated by Michael Clayton, The Collector's Dictionary of the Silver and Gold of Great Britian and North America, 2nd edition, Woodbridge, 1985, no. 480a. A fourth pair, with the arms of  Congreve, dated 1739, is in the Hartman Collection, illustrated by Christopher Hartop, The Huguenot Legacy, London, 1996, fig. 30. As the author notes, ''the individuality of the dolphins and the way in which their tails entwine the scrolls at the bottom of the handles, are the work of a virtuoso'.