This lovely figural stag comport is truly a rare treasure to behold.
Three beautifully depicted figural stag motifs form the base of the centrepiece in classic High Victorian style. They are almost certainly inspired by the Scottish Highland craze that swept Victorian England in the 1850s to 60s, which began when Victoria and Albert visited, fell in love with and purchased Balmoral (1854). Indeed her love affair with Scotland began in 1842 when the young queen visited Edinburgh, making her only the the second reigning British monarch to come north of the border (the first being George IV in 1820).
The maker is one that's highly collectible as well, as the maker's marks are for Cartwright & Woodward, Birmingham 1863; Cartwright would retire just two years later in 1865. The firm also participated with success at London (1851 and 1862), Paris (1867) and Melbourne (1881) Exhibitions.
At 864 grams of sterling silver, this is a beautiful, artistic and substantial. Truly a centrepiece in every aspect.
Almost as rare is its stunning condition. It is in excellent antique condition, including the crystal centrepiece, rare to find in pieces of this age. The crystal is also a work of art with leaf motifs, popular in Victorian art at the time.
Measurements:
Approximately 16 cm base diameter
21 centimetres crystal centrepiece diameter
21 centimetres high
