- 259
A French silver and gold inkwell decorated with fleur-de-lys, J. Debut, Paris, circa 1897
Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 USD
bidding is closed
Description
- marked with guarantee throughout, base rim with maker's mark
- silver, gold, glass
- height 4 5/8 in.
- 11.7 cm
the openwork foliate base with alternating silver-gilt masks and applied gold fleurs-de-lis, hinged lid, fitted with glass liner, with a gold fleur-de-lis finial
Literature
Victor Champier, L'Art Dans La Vie Contemporaine: Revue Des Arts Décoratifs Dix-Septième Année 1897, illustrated
Condition
silver-gilt rubbed at high spots, overall good condition, well-modeled
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
Catalogue Note
The design is given to J. Debut (1838-1900), who was chief designer for Boucheron between 1858-1879, becoming head in 1866.
The fleur-de-lys suggest an association with the French Royal family, most likely Prince Philippe d'Orleans (1869-1926), son of the Comte de Paris, claimant to the French throne, and his wife Princess Isabelle d'Orleans. On November 5, 1896 the Prince, second in line to the throne, married Archduchess Maria Dorothea of Austria. This piece, published the following year, was probably conceived as a wedding gift for the Royal couple.