A pair of melon-form tureens of c.1755 inspired by Meissen originals reached £38,000, over double the estimate, while a pair of asparagus bundle tureens of the same period made a double-estimate £24,500, both going to the same British dealer.
Arguably the most striking was this 7 1/2in (19cm) high pineapple-shaped tureen cover and stand. Since the 1950s this has made three auction
appearances, the most recent in 1982 at Sotheby's after which it was with the well-known dealer Robert Williams. Not surprisingly, there has been a fair degree of restoration to the vulnerable leafy extremities of this set, but its obvious decorative attractions meant its appeal extended beyond traditional British ceramic collecting boundaries with interest from America and Italy. However, it was another British dealer who ended up securing the piece, at a mid-estimate £27,000.
