A Victorian silver-gilt claret jug
Henry William Curry, London 1872
Ovoid form, in polished gilt, the entrance with a removable stopper surmounted by a baluster finial, the high flaring pouring lip with an applied mask beneath surrounded by chased vine leaves and grapes, swagged beading and acanthus leaves, the handle modelled as a Bacchante feeding grapes to a putto, neoclassical motifs to the body featuring masks, strapwork and three ovoid vacant cartouches surrounded by chased vine leaves and plump grapes, the whole supported by a seated putto with arms raised, resting on a circular pedestal foot with masks and interlaced moulded borders, supplied with a bespoke purple velvet case, height 40cm, weight 34.5oz.