A George III ormolu mounted blue lacquered metal vase attributed to Matthew Boulton circa 1770

fitted on a later ebonized wood plinth and feet, gilt metal nozzle later, previously fitted as a lamp.

Overall fair condition; gilding appears to be original and mostly in tact; the tole vase overpainted with black paint; fitted on a later ebonized wood plinth and feet, gilt metal nozzle later, previously fitted as a lamp; quality of the ormolu is very good; and with some minor wear in areas of oxidation.
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.

This vase is identical to a group of ‘Vase perfume burners’ identified by Nicholas Goodison in Matthew Boulton: Ormolu, London, 2002, pp. 295-297, a pair of which is at Syon House (ibid., p. 295, fig. 258).  Goodison notes that there is not a design found in Boulton and Fothergill’s pattern books; however, these vases may be part of the firm’s earlier production before 1770 and are probably those specifically referred to as ‘Lord Shelburne’s vase’ in the archives (ibid, pp. 282 and 296).  This group of vases includes nearly identical elements found in other pieces by Boulton with minor variations including the four medallions which each depict a classical figure which derive from engravings in A. F., Gori’s Museum Florentinum, Vol. II (ibid, p. 92).  Four pairs of this model of vase have been recorded and the bodies of two pairs are finished in blue lacquer, as is the present lot.