ROYAL. A GERMAN SILVER FIGURAL CENTREPIECE, ROBERT HAERTEL, WEIMAR, CIRCA 1873 |

the circular bowl cast with a frieze of hunting and farming vignettes above acanthus decoration, detachable inner bowl, all supported by four cast female figures depicting the four seasons, the octagonal base embellished with twin cartouches; one the cypher 'CAP' in mirrored monogram, the other with the date 26th August 1873, signed R.HAERTEL fecit' to base

Most probably a gift to the Hereditary Grand Duke Charles Augustus and Duchess Pauline of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach at their wedding on 26th August 1873.

Apparently unmarked. Well cast and extremely heavy gauge showing very little sign of significant wear. Good condition.
"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."

The sculptor Robert Carl August Haertal (Hartel) was born in Weimar in 1831. His work includes a triptych, entitled Hermann's battle (Hermannsschlacht), owned by The Weimar Museum, as well as monuments of Albrecht Durer and Michelangelo, in Wroclaw, where he died in 1894.