A RARE AND IMPRESSIVE MINTON PARIAN AND BONE CHINA CENTERPIECE CIRCA 1860

modelled with a turquoise-ground pierced bowl raised on an acanthus-leaf support, the circular six-branch candelabra supported by three mermaids, the base set with three shell-form dishes.

Two of the branches have been broken off and restored back. There are occasional short haircracks running down from the lower end of the candelabra or on the architectural structure on the mermaids' heads. There are two small chips to the ends of one of the mermaids' "tail". And the lower end of one of the mermaids' tail is restored. There is an approximate 3-inch long haircrack running down from the curved end of one of the shell-shaped dishes. There is restoration to approximately 1/3 of the circumference on the base, possibly covering a chip; the restoration is well done.
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.

A large cobalt blue-ground centerpiece of similar size is illustrated in Joan Jones, Minton, The First Two Hundred Years of Design and Production, opposite p. 123, where the author mentions that Queen Victoria purchased a 116-piece service modelled with parian figure supports at the Great Exhibition of 1851. Another similar turquoise-ground centerpiece with parian children figures and similarly set with removable shell-form dishes is illustrated ibid, opposite p. 53, where the author notes that it was also purchased by Queen Victoria at the Great Exhibition of 1851.