PAUL DE LAMERIE (1688-1751): A GEORGE I SILVER SHAVING BOWL
makers mark of Paul de Lamerie, London 1724, of typical form with an indented broad rim engraved with the armorial of James Medlycott (1658-1731) enclosed by a shell and leafy-scroll mantling, the outer diaper and strapwork border with alternating panels of classical busts in acanthus-scroll frames alternating with scallop-shells, the inner border with a repeating band of swirls, the base with a scratch weight “31:19”, 33cm wide (c.30 tr. ozs)
| Estimate: |
£15,000 - £25,000
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Bidding ended. Lot is unsold.
Provenance: James Medlycott (1658-1731) of Ven House, Milborne Port, Somerset
Thomas Medlycott, son of the above
Thomas Hutchings, nephew of the above
Sir William Coles Medlycott (1767-1835), son of the above
Sir William Medlycott (1806-1882)
Sir William Medlycott (1831-1887)
Sir Edward Medlycott (1832-1902)
Sir Mervyn Medlycott (1837-1908)
Sir Hubert Medlycott (1841-1920)
Sir Christopher Medlycott (1907-1986)
Sir Mervyn Medlycott (1947-2021)
and thence by descent.
The distinctive border engraving on the present bowl may be compared to the salver commissioned by Sir Robert Walpole to commemorate his term as Chancellor of the Exchequer and are now in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. The design of that salver, and the engraving itself, is attributed to William Hogarth (1697-1764).
It is fitting that Medlycott employed the leading silversmith of his generation for his personal shaving bowl. Having made a fortune as a lawyer and Master in Chancery, Medlycott purchased a seat in Parliament and set about building one of the most beautiful late Baroque houses in the kingdom, Ven House at Milborne Port. The house remained in the Medlycott family until the mid-20th century when many of the contents were transferred to the Medlycott’s other seat at Sandford Orcas Manor.
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