A Victorian parcel-gilt silver-plated 'Graeco-Pompeian' wine cooler, designed by Albert Williams for Elkington & Co., Birmingham, circa 1862

the sides formed of oval plaques of classical maidens, separated by palmette lambrequins over foliate clusters, on four scroll supports above paw feet, removable liner

leans slightly to one side, otherwise 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This is a silver-plated electrotype version of the wine coolers from Elkington's 'Graeco-Pompeian' dessert service, shown to considerable acclaim at the International Exhibition of 1862. Designed by Albert Willms, the original service comprised thirteen pieces of enamelled and parcel-gilt silver and was valued at the substantial price of £1,400.  Elkington won a medal at the Exhibition, and the jury singled out the firm for "great merit in designing a dessert service... in excellent taste, and the effect is very beautiful" (Reports by the Juries on the Subjects in the Thirty-six Classes Into Which the Exhibition was Divided, London, 1863, Class XXXIII, p. 4).