A SÈVRES TRAY FROM THE DUCHESS OF BEDFORD SERVICE, (Plateau de Saucière) of lozenge shape, the centre painted with fruit and flowers within an oval reserve, the border with four reserves painted with flowers on a bleu lapis ground with gilt Vermiculé pattern (rubbing to gilding on one corner), blue interlaced L marks enclosing in distinct date letter J for 1762, incised script j

The following 7 lots are the property of Alexander & Berendt Ltd. London's position as an international centre for the sale of works of art and the successes of its Auction Rooms relies in no small measure on the existence in the capital City of some of the world's best antique dealers. Alexander & Berendt was for over a quarter of a century one of these. Frank Berendt sold the best French, German and Italian furniture and porcelain to many museums and public collections. Ten major American institutions have made acquisitions through him. The John Paul Getty Museum has bought more from Alexander & Berendt than from any other source. Versailles, The Victoria and Albert Museum and important German Museums have all bought from him, so have numerous private collectors. Berendt was not a regular bidder in the Auction Rooms he preferred to buy his stock privately. Sadly for his many clients Frank Berendt has decided to retire. When he retires in due course the business will close. Christie's, while sad London is losing a dealer of such calibre are extremely pleased the directors have instructed us to dispose of the exceptional Sèvres porcelain.

Details

A SÈVRES TRAY FROM THE DUCHESS OF BEDFORD SERVICE, (Plateau de Saucière) of lozenge shape, the centre painted with fruit and flowers within an oval reserve, the border with four reserves painted with flowers on a bleu lapis ground with gilt Vermiculé pattern (rubbing to gilding on one corner), blue interlaced L marks enclosing in distinct date letter J for 1762, incised script j
30cm. wide

Provenance

From the dinner-service given by Louis XV to the Duchess of Bedford in 1763
The Hon. Mrs. Thomas Davies, sold 1974
Private Collection, England

Lot Essay

This tray comes from the extensive dinner and dessert service which was given by Louis XV in 1763, to the 4th Duchess of Bedford, second wife of John, 4th Duke of Bedford, who was then minister plenipotentiary to the court of Versailles. The service is recorded in detail in the Sèvres factory's sales records [Vy3 f.125] and also in the list of official presents given by the king to important foreigners. It was purchased on June 1st, 1763 by César-Gabriel, Duc de Choiseul-Praslin for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Of the 181 pieces, 157 are still at Woburn Abbey, some of which are illustrated by Pierre Verlet, Sevres, pl. 47 and pl. 49

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