A RARE FRENCH SILVER TEAPOT, PROBABLY CHARLES SERMENSAN, BORDEAUX, 1726-1732 | A rare French silver teapot, probably Charles Sermensan, Bordeaux, 1726-1732

octagonal shaped, the foot with gadrooned border, each side alternatively engraved with flowers or lambrequins and scrolls on matted ground, the lower part of four sides with an oval medallion, one figuring a lion under a cloud, another one an eagle surronded with clouds, a third one a dolphin emerging from the sea, the fourth one a phenix surrounded by flames, the fifth one remaining empty, the sixth one with a facetted spout ending with an eagle head, the seventh one engraved with armorial and the last one with a wooden handle, the lid with gadrooned border and the finial in a shape of a stylised flower

In overall good condition. Two small splits on each side of the hinge. The cover does not close very well. Very legible marks under the base. Unique piece. Exquisite quality and design. Good weight.
"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."

The attribution to the goldsmith Charles Sermensan the Younger (1693-1730), received in 1718, was suggested by Jean Clarke of Dromantin, author of the reference book on the goldsmiths of Bordeaux, even though no piece with his mark has yet been identified. Therefore, we do not know for sure if this CS punch with a snake can certainly be attributed to him. However, the dates are consistent and he appears to be the only unidentified goldsmith with these initials active in Bordeaux at that time.
Son, grandson, uncle and nephew of goldsmiths, Charles belongs to a dynasty comprising six goldsmiths.