Cecil de Blaquiere Howard

Paris, Salon des beaux-arts, 1919;
New York, Milch Galleries, 1920

Overall the condition of the bronzes is very good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is wax to the candlesticks. There are various minor casting flaws, including to the terrasses. There are a few minor nicks and scratches. There is minor staining to the top of the tazza of the centrepiece. There is some minor warping to the edges of the gilt bronze bowls, and there is some minor dark spotting. The bowl of the central tazza may be reattached.
"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."

'a set of gold and bronze table decorations by Cecil Howard … dignified, distinguished, original … of extreme beauty of proportion … Vigor and austerity … The turning of so gifted a sculptor to this class of work is the happiest augury for our decorative arts.'

New York Times,‎ May 15, 1921