Large Tiffany & Co. Sterling Ewer

Description:

Large Tiffany & Co. Sterling Ewer, 1875-91, decoration attributed to Eugene J. Soligny, the spout with rocaille C-scroll and flowerhead rim, elongated neck with high loop handle with high relief decoration of leaves, berries, and vine tendrils, the base of handle with boldly modeled high relief mask of a female bacchante with wreath of ivy vines, and necklace of bells, the ovoid body with reed and acanthus neck band, on stepped trumpet foot, ht. 20 3/8 in., approx. 68 troy oz., with original Tiffany fitted oak case with top lifting handle.

Note: This ewer, with its highly detailed, sculptural bacchic mask decoration, bears a striking resemblance to punch bowls from the three garnitures commissioned by the U.S. government c. 1873 for presentation to the three arbitrators of the Alabama reparations claim case. The design of these suites has been attributed to one of Tiffany's most celebrated designers and chasers, Eugene J. Soligny (1832-1901). Soligny was also involved in the design of some of Tiffany & Co.'s most renowned showpieces, including the Comanche Trophy of 1873, and the Bryant Vase of 1875/76. A bowl unmistakably similar to this ewer was featured in Skinner's Fine Silver sale of April 10, 2010.
Estimate $8,000-12,000

good, with one small, light pinpoint to body, and to foot. overall minor age wear. not monogrammed.
case with some age wear including spot of wear to interior fabric, and finish wear to lid.

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