A rare silver-mounted Westerwald stoneware Royal portrait tankard

of baluster form with incised decoration of branches applied with flowerheads, framing an applied portrait medallion of King William III inscribed 'WILHELMVS:III.DG.MAG. BRIT. FRANC. ET.HIB.REX.' within an laurel wreath border, the hinged silver cover with barrel form thumbpiece,

Acquired in 1969.

Small shallow chip to the rim of tankard, approx.1cm. by 0.2cm. at widest point.Several fine haircracks/firing cracks across top of handle. Some tiny losses to the applies decoration. Some black specking to the glaze on the upper half of the tankard.
"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."

For a Westerwald stoneware jug moulded with a similar portrait medallion, see D. Gaimster, German Stoneware 1200-1900, London, 1997, p. 264, pl. 121.