A George III Blue John, alabaster and 'Ashford Marble' urn, Derbyshire, late 18th century

in the form of a lidded campana vase raised on a square base

In country house condition with chips and scratches consistent with age. The knopped finial re-glued. The urn shortened and re-attached presumably following an old breakage.
"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."

This fine vase utilises materials associated with Derbyshire, Blue John particularly, but also black 'Ashford Marble', a locally sourced type of limestone quarried at Ashford-in-the-Water. A renowned Derbyshire maker who used these materials was John Mawe (1766-1829) and there are comparable examples of his workshop production in the collection at Chatsworth.

Illustrated on mantelpiece opposite. See additional images at sothebys.com.