This lot undoubtedly bears very strong reference to the aesthetic and decorative style of William Burges. It has been suggested by Professor Mordaunt Crook that the piece might well have been designed by Burges' office after his death in 1881. It should be noted that work at Cardiff Castle, one of Burges' most celebrated commissions for the 3rd Marquess of Bute, continued in the same spirit for some thirty years after his death.

We are grateful to Professor J. Mordaunt Crook F.B.A. for his help in preparing this catalogue entry