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1 of 253523 objects
Small ewer 1798 - 1809
Silver gilt, ebony | 21.1 x 17.4 x 9.2 cm (whole object) | RCIN 48398
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A small ewer, with a broad spout and an ebonised wooden handle springing from a ram’s head with entwined horns, upper band of berried lotus on matt ground; two beaded reserves containing a figure of cupid kneeling, an arrow in his hand, his quiver before him. The lower body is chased with stiff leaves and has a circular foot with a border of stiff leaves and tongues.
Marks: Paris, 1798-1809, and maker's mark for Henri Auguste.
Provenance
Henri Auguste was the son of the royal goldsmith Robert-Joseph Auguste (1723–1805), whose workshop he assumed in 1784–85. He continued to receive official patronage from Louis XVI and later from Napoleon. For the latter's coronation as Emperor he received a commission from the City of Paris, for a silver service comprising 425 pieces, most of which were melted down after the restoration under Charles X.
Stephanie de Beauharnais was the cousin of Napoleon's first wife Josephine, and was adopted by Bonaparte in 1796. On her marriage to Karl, Grand Duke of Baden on 7 April 1806, the Emperor presented her with a toilet service and other works of silver gilt, each decorated with the initials SN for Stephanie Napoleon. These passed by descent to her daughter Princess Marie Amelie, Duchess of Hamilton.
Purchased by Queen Mary at the Hamilton sale at Christie's in 1934. -
Creator(s)
(goldsmith)(nationality)Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Silver gilt, ebony
Measurements
21.1 x 17.4 x 9.2 cm (whole object)
402.5 g (Weight) (whole object)
Place of Production
Paris [Île-de-France]
