A Chelsea gilt-metal mounted bonbonnière in the form of a nesting family of birds, circa 1755

naturalistically modelled and painted, the two adult birds sat in their nest feeding their six chicks, their plumage picked out in brown, red, black and yellow, the hinged underside formed of enamel, probably London, painted with flower sprays and sprigs,

The property of the late Otto and Magdalena Blohm, Sotheby's London, 24th April 1961, lot 286; acquired at the sale by E. Edwards;
The property of Stewart Granger, Esq., sold Christie's London, 20th May 1963, lot 123.

Related Literature
G. E. Bryant, The Chelsea Porcelain Toys, London, 1925, p. 164, pl. 48.

In generally good condition. The enamel base with some minor rubbing, and three faint hairline cracks to interior. The mount has a hinge split and is fragile.
"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."

This exceptionally rare model has very few comparables recorded. Bryant, op. cit., illustrates an unmounted example formerly in the Hutton collection.