A pair of gilt-bronze mounted green porphyry vases and covers, after the model by Pierre Gouthière Napoleon III, circa 1860

in Louis XVI style

Sir Charles Henry Tempest, 1st Bt. (1834 - 1894), thence by descent to Ethel Mary Tempest (1869 - 1937) who married Miles Stapleton, 10th Lord Beaumont (1850 - 1895) thence by descent.

Generally good copndition. The gilt-bronze mounts are dirty and the gilding is worn. the mounts have been lacquered but there is nice quality to the detail. The vases would benefit for a light clean.
"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."

Comparative Literature:
Daniel Alcouffe, Gilt-bronzes in the Louvre, Dijon, 2004, p. 241, no. 120.
There is an identical vase in the Louvre by Pierre Gouthière in serpentine marble, circa 1775, upon which this pair is based. The Louvre example was originally in the collection of the Duc d'Aumont who was an avid collector of marbles which he had worked by the best Italian craftsmen and then mounted by the most celebrated Parisian bronziers. The Duc's vase is listed in his inventory as number 604 and is also described in detail in the catalogue of his sale in Paris in December 1782. It was purchased for 5000 livres by Julliot for the King. The model was copied in the 19th century by amongst others by the firm of Beurdeley and Paul Sormani.