A PAIR OF GILT-BRONZE MOUNTED SPATH FLUOR VASES, CIRCA 1820-1830 |

the handles tritons shaped, the stem applied with acanthus and twisted laurel

The illustration is too orange. Very decorative pieces. The mounts in fine condition, they will need a light cleaning. The bodies with contrasted veins, deep purple, fine stone. One minor chip on the lower rim on one.
"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."

These Blue-John vases were particularly rare in France during the time of the Restoration and they attest to the anglomania in vogue in France at the first part of the 19th century. Blue-John, originally only from quarries in Derbyshire, England, was a British specialty that did not arrive in France until the early 19th century. This semi-precious stone was appreciated for its translucency and its amethyst colour. The famous British bronze-artist Matthew Boulton specialized in Blue-John objects mounted in gilt-bronze, such as pendulum clocks and candelabra.

Our pair of vases, however, remains very French due to the design of the bronze mounts: the children with fish tails on the handles are directly inspired by the models of Pierre Gouthière. A pair of vases with similar chasing and stone has been part of Eleanor Post Close and Antal Post de Bekessy Collections (Sotheby's, Paris, 19-20 December 2017, lot 623).