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Presentation Wine Ewer
Dated 1858
This silver-plated wine ewer, presented in 1858, is a stunning example of ornate Victorian craftsmanship and historical significance. The ewer features an elegant grape motif and scrolling acanthus leaf decor richly chased across the body. A cartouche medallion graces the reverse side, while the front cartouche is engraved with a tribute: “Presented to Mess. 73rd REGt B.N.I. by Lt. F.R.N. Fortescue 1858.” The hinged lid is crowned with a grape cluster finial, and the C-scroll handle, adorned with bone insulators, adds both functionality and aesthetic charm.
The inscription references the 73rd Regiment of the Bengal Native Infantry (B.N.I.), a British Indian Army regiment primarily composed of Indian soldiers led by British officers. The gift, facilitated by Lieutenant Frederick Richard Norman Fortescue, was a gesture of camaraderie and recognition of service within the regiment during a tumultuous period in Indian history. Frederick Richard Norman Fortescue, a native of Stephenstown, County Louth, Ireland, was commissioned Ensign in the 73rd Native Infantry in 1845. He served with distinction during the Punjab Campaign (1848-49) and played a significant role throughout the Indian Mutiny. Fortescue commanded a detachment of the regiment in engagements against mutineers, notably during the night attack at Phoolbaree in 1857. The year 1858 is particularly significant, coming shortly after the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
The intricate design of the ewer reflects the Victorian era's penchant for naturalistic motifs, particularly the grapevine, which symbolizes abundance and celebration. The stippled ground further enhances the depth of the chased grapevine decor, while the domed foot and applied scroll handle contribute to its robust yet refined silhouette. The grape cluster finial on the hinged lid serves as the perfect crowning detail for this richly adorned ewer. This remarkable ewer was also part of the iconic Red McCombs collection, which has been highly publicized and studied.
13 3/8" high x 7 1/4" wide x 5 3/8" deep
Provenance:
Red McCombs Collection, Texas
MSR, New Orleans
Victorian Silver-Plated Presentation Wine Ewer
$1,450.00
Dated 1858
This silver-plated wine ewer, presented in 1858, is a stunning example of ornate Victorian craftsmanship and historical significance. The ewer features an elegant grape motif and scrolling acanthus leaf decor richly chased across the body. A cartouche medallion graces the reverse side, while the front cartouche is engraved with a tribute: “Presented to Mess. 73rd REGt B.N.I. by Lt. F.R.N. Fortescue 1858.” The hinged lid is crowned with a grape cluster finial, and the C-scroll handle, adorned with bone insulators, adds both functionality and aesthetic charm.
The inscription references the 73rd Regiment of the Bengal Native Infantry (B.N.I.), a British Indian Army regiment primarily composed of Indian soldiers led by British officers. The gift, facilitated by Lieutenant Frederick Richard Norman Fortescue, was a gesture of camaraderie and recognition of service within the regiment during a tumultuous period in Indian history. Frederick Richard Norman Fortescue, a native of Stephenstown, County Louth, Ireland, was commissioned Ensign in the 73rd Native Infantry in 1845. He served with distinction during the Punjab Campaign (1848-49) and played a significant role throughout the Indian Mutiny. Fortescue commanded a detachment of the regiment in engagements against mutineers, notably during the night attack at Phoolbaree in 1857. The year 1858 is particularly significant, coming shortly after the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
The intricate design of the ewer reflects the Victorian era's penchant for naturalistic motifs, particularly the grapevine, which symbolizes abundance and celebration. The stippled ground further enhances the depth of the chased grapevine decor, while the domed foot and applied scroll handle contribute to its robust yet refined silhouette. The grape cluster finial on the hinged lid serves as the perfect crowning detail for this richly adorned ewer. This remarkable ewer was also part of the iconic Red McCombs collection, which has been highly publicized and studied.
13 3/8" high x 7 1/4" wide x 5 3/8" deep
Provenance:
Red McCombs Collection, Texas
MSR, New Orleans