A pair of copper-gilt wine coolers, probably Sheffield circa 1830

campana form, on circular spreading foot, vine leaf handles, floral-tied reeded rim, detachable collar and liner

Mallett, London.

Condition is reasonable and overall impression is very pleasing, although highlights (especially on handles, lips and parts of the bodies, feet and rims) are a little rubbed through to the copper, one of the rims also with some scuffing and spots of verdigris; various minor dents (especially to the bulbous parts of the bodies); the underside of one base has an old wood filler and that on the other, together with most of its pitch filling, is missing; the bases are very slightly bent which causes both coolers to wobble, but this is not a serious problem. The colour of the gilding is good.
"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 arms are those of Cooper impaling Cock for the eminent surgeon, Astley Paston Cooper (1768-1841) who was married firstly in 1791 to Anne (d. 1827), daughter of Thomas Cock, a wealthy Hamburg merchant. Cooper, who studied anatomy and surgery under John Hunter and Henry Cline, was appointed surgeon to Guy's Hospital, London, in 1800. At this time his private practice was beginning to flourish, so much so that during the next decade his annual income rose sometimes to £21,000 a year. A prolific writer and renowned lecturer on medical matters, he made many lasting contributions in various fields of his profession, including otology and vascular surgery. In 1820 he was summoned to attend to George IV for the removal of a cyst, the operation upon which proved so effective that he was soon afterwards created a baronet. Sir Astley was much affected by the death of his wife in 1827 after which he resolved to retire. The following year, however, he returned to his duties and was subsequently married to his second wife, Catherine Jones (d. 1870). He was elected in 1830 to the position of vice-president to the Royal Society. Sir Astley died in 1841 and was interred beneath Guy's Hospital Chapel. A marble monument by the sculptor Edward Hodges Baily was erected to his memory in the South Transept of St. Paul's Cathedral, London.