Unusual or particularly high-quality services such as that offered at Great Western Auctions (20% buyer’s premium) in Glasgow on June 15 can still sell well.
This is an example of ‘Teniers silver’. From the early 19th century, scenes reminiscent of the 17th century Flemish artist’s romanticised views of taverns and peasant life were worked in repoussé by manufacturers of all types of metal objects.The London silversmith Edward Farrel made a speciality of such pieces.
The 10in (26cm) tall coffee pot (pictured above) and the teapot in the four-piece London 1844 service, by Farrel were cast in relief with figures in medieval taverns. The cream and sugar jugs had handles modelled as drunken revellers. Estimated at £2000-3000, the 121oz service sold to a South African buyer at £6800.
