A pair of Victorian gilt-brass and jasperware mounted boxwood and ebony strung satinwood and amaranth open bookcases circa 1870, in the manner of Holland & Sons

the frieze with Wedgewood type plaques depicting classical scenes and inlaid with draped swags, enclosing four adjustable shelves with later leather lambrequin trim, the uprights headed with gilt-brass floral bouquets, on a plinth base

An attractive pair in excellent restored condition. These bookcases are ready to place.
"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."

These elegant bookcases are in the neo-classical style and relate to the output of the firm Holland & Sons. Originally founded in 1803 by Stephen Taprell and William Holland, a relation of the architect Henry Holland, the firm of Holland & Sons soon became one of the largest and most successful furniture making companies in the 19th century.

The jasperware plaques which adorn the present bookcases are a type of pottery first developed by Josiah Wedgwood in the 1770s. Noted for its matte finish, jasperware was produced in a number of pastel hues which were the most suited to the neo-classical of the late 18^th century. The best known is a pale blue, as seen on the present lot, which has been described as Wedgwood Blue.