- 10
Deux cachets, XIXe siècle
Description
- Deux cachets, XIXe siècle
- Silver and lapis lazuli, gold, hardstone, leather
the first of gold-mounted hardstone, English, circa 1835, probably by Storr & Mortimer, tapering, the gold cap, collar and cushion chased with flowers and scrolls, lobed with purpurine, malachite and lapis lazuli, the bloodstone matrix engraved with a coat of arms, 7 cm ; 2 3/4 in, in modern Wartski fitted case ; the second probably Italian, the circular steel matrix engraved with the arms of Antonelli, the handle probably later and formed of lapis lazuli springing from a silver frieze of conch-blowing mermaids, above leaves and a ruby-set collar, 10,7 cm ; 4 1/4 in
Condition
"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."
Catalogue Note
The arms on the first are those of George Paulet (1803-1879), third son of the 13th Marquess of Winchester, who married Georgina, daughter of Major-General Sir George Wood, in 1835, probably the occasion for this seal. Despite having caused an international incident in 1843 while defending British interests as naval officer in command of HMS Carysfort in the Hawaiian Islands, he distinguished himself during the Crimean War. Lord George was later appointed ADC to Queen Victoria in 1854, Companion of the Order of the Bath in 1855 and full Admiral in 1866.
The arms on the second seal are those of Cardinal Giacomo Antonelli (1808-1876), Secretary of State to Pope Pius IX from 1848. The frieze on the handle echoes the central element of the coat of arms, a mermaid blowing a horn below a distant star.