Ending on February 28, William George & Co’s online timed auction includes this 16th or 17th century French figural plaque, attributed to the French Huguenot potter Bernard Palissy (c.1501-90) and his school.
Measuring 15½in (39.5cm) wide, the lightly potted earthenware plaque is hand-painted in typical Palissy colours and decorated with a central figure of a semi-clad maiden playing an Aulos twin pipe surrounded by young putti, Bacchus masks and a Pan-like dancing figure. It is estimated at £4000-6000.
Due to the light and fragile nature of the potting, few pieces have survived today that can be attributed to the Palissy workshops.
These late 17th or early 18th century heraldic lions star in Wilkinson’s period oak sale in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, on February 26.
Retaining some residual polychrome, the 4ft 5in (1.38m) high beasts sit on their haunches with front paws resting upon shields emblazoned with a cross.
Estimate £15,000-17,000.
This large 17th century beadwork basket is being offered by Dominic Winter in Gloucestershire on March 2.
Perhaps made to hold a layette or sprigs of rosemary for a birth or betrothal, or simply as a decorative piece, the basket dates to 1664 and depicts the Biblical story of Esther and King Ahasuerus.
At the time of the Restoration of Charles II, the tale served as a timely reminder of the sovereignty and greatness of the king, his graciousness in receiving supplicating subjects and the dangerous consequences of not honouring the monarchy. Such items in a dwelling may well have served to prove the allegiance of the household to the king. Estimate £4000-6000.
