Western Morning News (Saturday)
Worldwide interest in tooth
ONE of the star lots in Michael Bowman’s 2pm Online Auction today is likely to be the 19th century sperm whale tooth which bears a silver plaque suggesting that the 6” specimen was given to the unknown recipient by Cakobau, King of Fiji, in 1853.
Seru Epenisa Cakobau, successfully united some of the warring states of Fiji and is viewed as being the first king of a shortlived united Fijian kingdom. Although believed to have been a cannibal in his earlier life, he converted to Christianity in 1854. This intriguing whale tooth is estimated at £400-600 and has attracted worldwide interest, including that of Fijian collectors. The marine theme is continued by a modern oil on board by Stephen J Card (born 1952) showing a sailing ship flying the white ensign in a stiff breeze and estimated at £100-150.
Other paintings include the scene painted in oils after Lorrain, depicting Carlo and Ubaldo arriving on an enchanted island in search of their fellow Christian knight, Rinaldo. This has hopes of £400-600.
A sensitive watercolour portrait of a young girl in white cap by Robert Edward Morrison (1852-1925), is just 9” high and has suffered from some foxing over the years. It retains its original gilt frame and looks for bids in the region of £150-200. A pair of Regency twin branch lustre drop candelabra with their ormolu mounts, make an impressive table display, standing 21” high. They were bought from the stock of well known TV personality, David Dickinson, back in the day when such items were very expensive. Now, they might be a prudent purchase at £400-600.
Public viewing is not possible due to prevailing health concerns in the UK, but all lots are fully illustrated online.
Contact Michael Bowman on 01626 324071 or michaeljbowman@ btconnect.com.