- 720
A jewelled ormolu and enamel letter opener, English or German, mid 19th century
Estimate
1,200 - 1,800 GBP
Log in to view results
bidding is closed
Description
- A jewelled ormolu and enamel letter opener, English or German, mid 19th century
- bronze, turquoise, garnet, enamel
- 23cm., 9in. long
the sinuous handle enamelled in translucent blue and applied with turquoise and garnet beads, terminating in a circular blank bloodstone matrix, the shaped blade held by flower petals surmounted by the cast figure of a putto holding a parrot and further ornamented with ajouré strapwork
Condition
Two flat scrapes to blue enamel (possibly re-enamelled) and some rubbing to gilding on calyx and thigh of putto. Otherwise good condition.
"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
The style and colouring of this knife are reminiscent of the designs produced by Frederick Bööcke, of the firm of Leviny & Bööcke, for the jewellers Watherston & Brogden in the mid 19th century. See John Culme, The Directory of Gold & Silversmiths …, Woodbridge, 1987, vol. I, p. 292 for information about his career. See also The Art Journal Illustrated Catalogue of the Industry of All Nations, London, 1851, p. 80 for examples of jewellery in similar taste.