A GOLD DESK ORNAMENT, PROBABLY LISBON, 1810-1822 | A gold desk ornament, probably Lisbon, 1810-1822

in the shape of a palm tree on an octagonal base, resting on ball and claw feet, the detachable palm fronds pierced with holes for replacement pencil leads, the tapering stem centered by the coat of arms of the Brito e Cunha family, town mark, rabbit control mark

overall good condition. Would benefit from light cleaning, the base with a dent to the rim, one of the corners bent, the finnial slightly bent. The crown above the palm leaves and the first level detachable as well. Overall weight 143.5 g.
"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 Brito e Cunha family, from the landed gentry of Porto and Matosinhos, descends from Antonio Álvares de Brito (1720-1801), a knighted landowner and merchant, and Teresa da Cunha e Vasconcelos, whose family held a chapel in Porto’s cathedral. Their son, António Bernardo de Brito e Cunha, a staunch liberal famously executed in 1829 for treason, is remembered in Portugal as one of the twelve 'martyrs of freedom'.