This design of cassolette vase was tentatively identified by Sir Nicholas Goodison in 1974 as the slightly later development (circa 1771) of the type he identified as the 'Cleopatra' vase (see: N. Goodison, Ormolu: The Work of Matthew Boulton, London, 1974, pp. 150-151). In the earlier form the vases had rectangular bases of simulated hardstone but this was apparently developed into circular plinths and bases, both made of blue-john. Two pairs of this model with differing finials are illustrated, ibid, pls. 109-110. A pair of cassolettes, possibly those illustrated, ibid, pl. 109, were sold by the Executors of the late Mrs. A.H. Soames, in these Rooms, 28 May 1964, lot 7. There is another in the Beit collection at Russborough, Co. Wicklow.