AN EXCEPTIONAL FRENCH SILVER TEAPOT, LOUIS LE GAIGNEUR, SAINT-OMER, CIRCA 1747 (DATE LETTER G) | An exceptional French silver teapot, Louis Le Gaigneur, Saint-Omer, circa 1747 (date letter G)

the partly-fluted body engraved with a frieze of roccoco motives, dog head shaped spout, the wood handle chased with a blackamoor head wearing silver necklace and earrings, wood finial

Illustrated in  Jacques Helft, le Poinçon des Provinces Françaises, 1985, pl. XLI

In overall good condition, the wooden cover finial base damaged, the black painting on the handle slight worn. Fully marked under the base. Very nice design and exquisite quality. Probably the most beautiful French teapot.
"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."

Puiforcat collection  Ortiz-Patino collection

Sotheby's Amsterdam, 7 May 2001, lot 210

Beaussant Lefèvre, Paris, Drouot,  December 2004