Description:
Ornately Carved and Pierced Presentation Launch Box for the Steel Torpedo Gunboatthe SANDFLY, England, c. 1887, rectangular box with stepped cover centered with incised SANDFLY inscription over carved bands of acorns and oak leaves and scrolled foliage, the side panels with pierced stylized flowerheads and scrollwork, and applied molded base with similarly carved scrolled foliage; the interior cover mounted with a watercolor depicting the ship, and a list with the dimensions, dates, and key personnel of the vessel, the blue velvet-lined box containing a similarly carved fruitwood launch mallet and chisel, ht. 5, wd. 13, dp. 9 in.
Note: The HMS Sandfly was a twin screw steel torpedo gunboat, launched at Devonport Dock, September 30th, 1887, and sold at Malta in 1905.
Estimate $2,500-3,500
The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.