A pair of Mintons pâte-sur-pâte pilgrim flasks circa 1873

by Marc Louis Solon, signed MLS, one finely decorated in white slip with two cupids seated either side of the same table, each eating from his own plate; the other with two cupids fighting across a table over two hearts on a plate, all beneath a border of fruiting orange vines, one decorated on the reverse with a satyr mask and the other with the head of a muse, each flanked by slender vases beneath a colorful canopy, crowned MINTONS globe mark printed in gilding, impressed MINTONS marks.

Please note that only one vase is signed MLS. Both with some occasional and very minor rubbing to the gilding and black enamels on the gilding. The one on the left in the catalogue illustration: There is an approximate 2 by 1 inch section broken off and restored at the rim. The one on the right in the catalogue illustration: One handle has been broken off and restored.
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.

A pair of Mintons vases of the same shape (shape number 1348) and similarly sprigged with cupids seated at a table was sold in these rooms, October 30, 2003, lot 24.