A gift of love in exquisite silver form comes to the fore in Hansons Auctioneers October 14 Fine Art Auction.
The artistry of silversmithing more than a century ago is elegantly displayed in an Arts and Crafts silver and enamel bowl and cover.
It bears an inscription which reads: ‘A LOVE GIFT TO MRS H W ORCHARD FROM FRIENDS AT S. MARY LE PARK BATTERSEA 1909’.
Her friends must have loved her very much indeed to purchase such a beautiful item. The bowl features a tapering circular body chased with a band of fruit trees within an orchard setting, a theme perhaps inspired by the surname of the woman who received it. Each tree trunk is banner tied with a rolling presentation inscription. Hallmarked by Omar Ramsden & Alwyn Charles Ellison Carr, London, 1909, it goes to auction with an estimate of £1,400 – £1,800.
This item underlines the quality of objects produced during the Arts and Crafts movement, which flourished from 1880 to 1920. This international trend in decorative and fine arts had its roots in Britain. It was initiated in reaction against the perceived impoverishment of the decorative arts and the conditions in which they were produced. The movement flourished in Europe and North America.
Fine object to sell at auction? Silver and jewellery specialist Kate Bliss will be offering free valuations at Hansons, Heage Lane, Etwall, Derbyshire, DE65 6LS, on Wednesday, October 13, 10am-4pm – no booking necessary.