STYLE: Private Collections
STYLE: Private Collections
A pair of William IV narwhal tusk and mahogany torchères, circa 1830
Lot Closed
November 13, 02:09 PM GMT
Estimate
5,000 - 8,000 GBP
Lot Details
Description
A pair of William IV narwhal tusk and mahogany torchères, circa 1830
the dished tops on a narwhal tusk stem with a gadrooned tri-from base
138cm. high, 27cm. diameter (top); 4ft. 6¼in., 10¾in.
This lot contains endangered species. Sotheby's recommends that buyers check
with their own government regarding any importation requirements prior to
placing a bid. For example, US regulations restrict or prohibit the import of certain
items to protect wildlife conservation. Please note that Sotheby's will not assist
buyers with the shipment of this lot to the US. A buyer's inability to export or
import these lots cannot justify a delay in payment or sale cancellation.
Narwhal tusks were often part of the European kuntskammer created by discerning collectors of the Renaissance and later. They were historically traded for centuries and often believed to be the mythical horns from unicorns and thought to possess magical properties, including the power to purify poisoned water.