Description
A pair of George III ormolu mounted blue john 'candle vases' by Matthew Boulton, raised on stepped square base to wreath footed waisted stems, the ovoid bodies with rams' head terminal scroll handle issuing ribbon tied wreath swags, to later reversible tops, 8.5in (21.5cm) h. (2) One arm repaired. See Goodison, N. Matthew Boulton:Ormolu, 2002 p.305. pls 277 and 278 for similar model and Boulton & Fothergill's drawing for the above design. Literature: Country Life December 12, 1974. p.1887, discusses 'Candlesticks in St James's.' An exhibition held at Spink and Sons in which 'a pair of cassolettes decorated with ormolu swags and scrolling handles supported by rams' heads on stepped ormolu bases. The ormolu tops-not it appears original-are reversible and so provide candle sockets if required..' are discussed. The present vases were purchased in the same year from Christie's.
