Lot Essay
A number of similar pieces, some by the same unknown goldsmith, are recorded. They all display a high level of craftsmanship, not only in their construction, but also in the engraved ornament which is quite possibly by Blaise Gentot. It seems highly likely that the goldsmith was also a Huguenot, particularly when one considers the cut-card band of foliage, which on some examples curls towards the end. Identical ornament can be found on numerous fully-hallmarked French bowls and covers of the late seventeenth century.