MARK OF HENRY WILKINSON, LONDON, 1868

Details

A VICTORIAN SILVER AND IVORY PRESENTATION TROWEL
MARK OF HENRY WILKINSON, LONDON, 1868
Engraved with foliage scrolls and swags and an inscription, the back engraved with a map and plans of the dock, the ivory handle carved with stiff leaves terminating in beads, contained in a fitted case
14½ in. long (37 cm.)
The inscription reads 'To Her Excellency, the Countess Spencer, on the occasion of setting the first coping stone of the Royal Naval Dock at Haulbowline on the 25th September 1869, by Earl Spencer K.G., Lord Lieutenant of Ireland' and relates to Charlotte, Countess Spencer (1835-1903), wife of John Poyntz, 5th Earl Spencer (1835-1910).

Special notice

Prospective purchasers are advised that several countries prohibit the importation of property containing materials from endangered species, including but not limited to coral, ivory and tortoiseshell. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should familiarize themselves with relevant customs regulations prior to bidding if they intend to import this lot into another country. No VAT will be charged on the hammer price, but VAT at 17.5% will be added to the buyer's premium, which is invoiced on a VAT inclusive basis. Please note Payments and Collections will be unavailable on Monday 12th July 2010 due to a major update to the Client Accounting IT system. For further details please call +44 (0) 20 7839 9060 or e-mail info@christies.com

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Lot Essay

Charlotte, Countess Spencer (1835-1903) and her husband John, 5th Earl Spencer (1835-1910) travelled to unveil the Royal Naval Dock by steamer having visited the Cork Butter exchange. Following the ceremony the Earl's party lunched on H.M.S Agincourt. The British first fortified Haulbowline Island in Cork Bay in 1602. The docks were much developed during the Napoleonic Wars. The island is now used by the Irish Navy.

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