An exceptional Georgian centrepiece believed to be a unique marriage of silver and Derbyshire’s celebrated Blue John stone is set to spark international interest when it goes under the hammer in Kent.
The spectacular silver and Blue John epergne was created by one of the greatest names of the Industrial Revolution, Matthew Boulton, and dates to 1802.
More than two centuries later, the remarkably elegant piece will be offered by Hansons Auctioneers’ Kent and Sussex saleroom in Penshurst on September 8, with an estimate of £20,000-£30,000.
Standing 34.5cm high, the George III silver epergne is an elaborate table centrepiece designed to hold fruit, sweetmeats or other delicacies.
But it is the use of Blue John, the rare and distinctive mineral historically mined in Derbyshire, which makes the piece particularly remarkable.
Rather than the silver or glass dishes more commonly associated with epergnes of the period, Boulton combined precious metal with beautifully figured Blue John to create an object displaying both his celebrated metalworking skills and his fascination with ornamental stone.
The circular central Blue John dish is raised upon four elegant pillar supports, with leaf-capped lion’s paw feet, lion masks and scrolling foliage. Gadrooned stretchers lead to a fluted floral finial, while four scrolling branches support smaller Blue John dishes.
Justin Matthews, of Hansons Auctioneers’ Kent and Sussex saleroom, said: “Matthew Boulton was a master of working with Blue John and pieces associated with him are sought after by collectors internationally.
“This epergne is particularly exciting because it appears to be unique. The dishes on pieces of this type would normally have been produced in silver or glass, but here Boulton has combined his love of Blue John with his superb silver craftsmanship.
“The result is a stunning and incredibly elegant centrepiece. It is a wonderful example of Georgian design and craftsmanship and we expect it to attract significant interest from collectors.”
An icon of British design and industry
Born in Birmingham in 1728, Matthew Boulton became one of the most important manufacturers and entrepreneurs of the 18th century. His Soho Manufactory became internationally renowned for producing highly fashionable luxury objects for wealthy and aristocratic clients.
Boulton was also famously the business partner of engineer James Watt, with their development and manufacture of steam engines playing an important role in Britain’s Industrial Revolution.
Alongside his industrial achievements, Boulton produced exquisite decorative objects and developed a particular appreciation for Blue John.
The semi-precious fluorite, renowned for its dramatic bands and swirls of purple, blue, yellow and cream, became highly fashionable in Georgian Britain. When combined with Boulton’s sophisticated silverwork, it created luxury objects intended for the grandest interiors.
The epergne bears the mark of Matthew Boulton, London, 1802, placing its creation during the reign of George III.
More than 220 years later, its elaborate lion masks, paw feet, foliage and sculptural branches remain a striking demonstration of the craftsmanship of the period.
It will be offered in Hansons’ Penshurst September Silver, Jewellery, Watches, Fine Art & Antiques Auction on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, with a guide price of £20,000 – £30,000.
The auction will be available to bidders online and in the room at Hansons’ Kent saleroom in Penshurst.
Auction Details
Auction: Hansons Kent September Silver, Jewellery, Watches, Fine Art & Antiques Auction
Auction date: 8th September 2026 | 10am
Location: Hansons Kent & Sussex Saleroom
Auction contact: [email protected]
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com
