A George III blue john urn

of boldly turned form and with later gilt bronze mounts

Overall good condition. Characteristic losses include chips to the top with a small repair, the rim above the body is chipped adjacent to the right hand handle, the base is reapired and chipped with other minor chips. Some losses to the bead mount which is broken and will need to be repaired.
"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."

Blue John was quarried from the all but depleted 'Bull Beef Vein' located in the Blue John Mine and Cavern, Castleton, Derbyshire. This rare fluorspar, only occurs in Derbyshire and has been treasured since Roman times. It was however mainly in the second half of the eighteenth century that the demand for this stone was reignited, largely through the entrepreneurial metal-worker Matthew Boulton and the renowned neo-classical architect Robert Adam who realised the potential of the wonderful colouration to be found in this mineral and utilised it to great effect in decorative objects and architectural detailing respectively. The dark colouring of the 'Bull Beef Vein', so named due to its resemblance to rare steak, was the most popular of the fourteen or so named veins identified in the early nineteenth century and prized by craftsmen and patrons at this time.