An Elizabeth II silver and enamel vase, Fred Rich, London, 1994

tapering cylindrical form on a domed foot, the body cloisonné and basse-taille enamelled with three frogs among reeds and flowers in greens and blues, gilt interior, incuse signed FRED RICH 94 to underside

Excellent condition. Clear marks.
"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."

Fred Rich was born in 1954 and trained at the Central School of Arts & Crafts, London, graduating in 1981 before setting up his first workshop where he decorated the work of other silversmiths. In 1995 Rich was honoured with a one-man exhibition at Garrard in Regent Street where every piece was sold. As a result, a similarly enamelled vase to the present example was commissioned, decorated with various butterflies, and winning awards for all divisions in which it was entered in the 1997 Goldsmiths' Crafts Council Competition (Goldsmiths' Company, Treasures of the 20th Century, London, 2000, p.108-9, no.287). In the same year, for another piece, Rich was awarded the Jacques Cartier Memorial Award for being the outstanding craftsman of the year. He won the same award in 2001 and 2003 for his work as an artist enameller.