The Roycroft Shops

Amiel Brown, New York
Cathers & Dembrosky, New York
Acquired from the above by the present owner, 1997

Overall in very good condition. The hand-hammered copper surfaces throughout appear to retain their original rich brown patina. As expected with a work of this monumental scale, the upper rim of the bowl is very slightly irregular in areas. The exterior surfaces with some old surface scratches, abrasions, and gentle rubbing to the patina consistent with age and use. There are a few very small and minor areas of patina loss to the lower register of the bowl just above the base (only visible under close inspection from the underside). The exterior with some occasional traces of a dark surface residue and a few beige colored paint marks (the largest visible in the catalogue illustration, approximately ¼ x ¾ inch). Additionally, there are some tiny scattered beige paint specks to the upper exterior register below the rim, as well as to the interior of the bowl. The interior with surface soiling, discoloration and traces of light surface oxidation. As expected, the underbase with fine surface scratches and abrasions marks. A superb example of the rare and bold design, displaying exceptional hammering and a satisfying rich brown patina. The patina is slightly more vibrant and less red than seen in the catalogue illustration.
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.

Walter Jennings is considered one of the most talented of the coppersmiths to work in the Roycroft Shops.  Jennings began in the bindery before moving to the copper shop in 1909, following founder Elbert Hubbard's realization that artistry would be as important as craftsmanship to Roycroft's future success.  Although Jennings is often celebrated for his elaborately chased designs, the present lot is an exemplar of his more austere work, evidenced by the bowl's ambitious and dramatic scale and the extraordinary quality of the hammering.  The mark on the underside of an orb and cross with two dots within the orb is associated with his hand, yet this piece has been further attributed to him through the superiority of the craftsmanship.  This model and size was not illustrated in the Roycroft catalogues, indicating that it was most likely a custom order.  A 1912 Roycroft catalogue describes a similar footed form with a banded rim in a smaller dimension as suitable for apples, popcorn or nuts.  A comparable bowl, of the same design and dimension, was sold at Rago Auctions, Lambertville, NJ, January 20, 2001, lot 105.  This bowl bore an inscription commemorating a New Year's eve party at the Paownyc Camp (named for the Pennsylvania, Ontario Western and New York Central Railroads) on Fourth Lake in the Adirondacks, near Eagle Bay, New York.

Sotheby's wishes to thank Roycroft expert, David Kornacki, for his assistance in researching and cataloguing this lot.