Under the Hammer
Wedgwood: Timeless Beauty, Enduring Craftsmanship
Bonhams Skinner presents its summer auctions, showcasing The Stanley Goldfein Collection of Wedgwood and Related Wares alongside The European Decor and Design auction featuring The Twinight Collection.
Stuart Slavid, Senior Vice President and Director of European Decorative Arts & Silver at Bonhams Skinner, specializes in English and Continental ceramics from the 18th to the 20th centuries. Internationally recognized as a leading authority on Wedgwood pottery, Stuart highlights some of his favourite lots set to go under the hammer.
Lot 1134
Wedgwood Encaustic Decorative Black Basalt Volute-krater Vase
Wedgwood Encaustic Decorative Black Basalt Volute-krater Vase, England, late 18th century. Estimate: US$1,500 - US$2,600.
Wedgwood Encaustic Decorative Black Basalt Volute-krater Vase, England, late 18th century. Estimate: US$1,500 - US$2,600.
Black Basalt is a hard, dense, fine-grained stoneware, introduced by Wedgwood in 1768. Its rich black color has been enhanced by a variety of decorative techniques through the years including the application of bas-reliefs, and around 1875, the use of bronzing and gilding. This is a wonderful example of a krater vase, a copy of a 4th-century BC Apulian (South Italian) vase from the collection of Sir William Hamilton (1730-1803). Wedgwood replicated the decoration from the published catalog of Hamilton’s collection. Although the form is ancient, it shows especially well in a contemporary setting.
Lot
Pair of Wedgwood Bronze and Gilt Black Basalt Figural Candlesticks
Pair of Wedgwood Bronze and Gilt Black Basalt Figural Candlesticks, England, late 19th century. Estimate: US$2,000 - US$3,000.
Pair of Wedgwood Bronze and Gilt Black Basalt Figural Candlesticks, England, late 19th century. Estimate: US$2,000 - US$3,000.
This pair of candlesticks are another notable example of black basalt. The use of bronzing and gilding was introduced around 1875, likely resurging following the popularity of Japanese bronzes at the London International Exhibition of 1862. This event stimulated demand for European bronzes and Wedgwood's bronze-like black basalt. Over the next 15-20 years, Wedgwood produced not only plain and ornamented basalt but also gilded and bronzed vases and tea wares. However, these items were produced in limited quantities, making them rare finds on the market today.
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Lot 1056
Wedgwood & Bentley Solid Agate Vase and Cover
Wedgwood & Bentley Solid Agate Vase and Cover, England, 1775. Estimate: US$1,500 - US$2,600.
Wedgwood & Bentley Solid Agate Vase and Cover, England, 1775. Estimate: US$1,500 - US$2,600.
Wedgwood’s partnership with Thomas Bentley spanned from 1769 to 1780, during which they manufactured ornamental wares, including these agate-like bodies utilising coloured clays, as well as variegated and porphyry-like wares. This majestic form features gilded laurel swags and is set atop a black basalt plinth.
Lot 1246
Pair of Wedgwood Cane Stoneware Conceits
Pair of Wedgwood Cane Stoneware Conceits, England, 1800. Estimate: US$1,000 - US$1,500.
Pair of Wedgwood Cane Stoneware Conceits, England, 1800. Estimate: US$1,000 - US$1,500.
Dating to circa 1800, these pastry-like forms are modelled as cakes with white “icing,” serving as decorations for dining tables during a time when flour was scarce. Initially striking due to their one-piece design, they are beautifully modelled and delicately decorated. Finding a pair is particularly rare.
Lot 1397
Wedgwood Green Jasper Dip Pegasus Vase and Cover
Wedgwood Green Jasper Dip Pegasus Vase and Cover, England, 19th century. Estimate: US$1,500 - US$2,500.
Wedgwood Green Jasper Dip Pegasus Vase and Cover, England, 19th century. Estimate: US$1,500 - US$2,500.
The green ground, adorned with an applied classical depiction of the Apotheosis of Homer, exemplifies Wedgwood’s mastery of classical figures, spanning over 250 years of manufacture. This subject is among the most renowned. Standing over eighteen inches tall and crafted in the early 19th century, it commands attention with its significant decorative allure.
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European Decor and Design featuring the Twinight Collection | 30 June - 10 July
The Stanley Goldfein Collection of Wedgwood and Related Wares | 30 June - 11 July
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