A Chelsea gilt-metal mounted scent bottle and stopper in the form of a youth catching birds, circa 1755

the youth holding a bird cage peering around a tree trunk up to another open cage and two perching birds, the chained stopper formed as a further bird, the underside with a gilded diaper panel,

The well-known collection of Chelsea Scent bottles formed by the late Mrs. Meyer Sassoon; The Property of Mrs. Derek Fitzgerald; 
Sotheby's London, 12th October 1965, lot 12, acquired at the sale by Winifred Williams.

In generally good condition with one bird with tiny chips. There are traces of glue to the underside of the bird stopper, the stopper metal fitting probably later.
"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."

The lead master model for this scent bottle, along with two other examples are illustrated by G. E. Bryant, The Chelsea Porcelain Toys, London, 1925, pl. 29, no. 5 and pl. 16, nos. 4 and 6.