A large scale George III Blue John urn, circa 1790

mounted with a later marble finial, resting on a rectangular Blue John plinth with marble and slate borders, with minor restorations

A marvellous urn in good condition. The colours and translucent nature of the stone is very prevalent in the flesh and superior to the image in the printed catalogue. There are some very minor chips to the rim as to be expected from age and use.
"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."

Blue john is found exclusively at Treak Cliff, Castleton, Derbyshire. Different parts of Treak Cliff hill are characterized by different patterns of colour banding in Blue John. The present vase seems to have been made from blue john mined from several different veins which may include the `New Dining Room Vein, the Old Tor Vein and the New Cavern Vein'.

Vases of related form can be seen in the collection of the Dukes of Devonshire at Chatsworth in Derbyshire, illustrated in The Duchess of Devonshire, Chatsworth, The House, London, 2002, p. 123.