Campbells completed their sales calendar for 2013
with an auction that was dominated by two stars; a fine bracket clock and a
significant private consignment of Victorian jewellery.
The clock had it all - admirable condition, an handsome and well-known form
and above-all, a top maker. This was the work of the eminent Justin
Vulliamy who had workshops and showrooms in Pall Mall during the middle
years of the eighteenth century. Vulliamy was of Swiss descent and was
personally known to King George III. Whilst on view prior to the
auction, collectors loved it's small size, (11 inches high) and a debate as
to the originality of the verge escapement only served to magnify it's
appeal. As bidding was opened, and with expectations not exceeding
£5,000, the pre-sale interest swiftly became apparent. When all-told,
the hammer went down at £17,000, selling to a private collector.
The Victorian jewellery collection was not characterised by large diamonds
and heavy gold but by interesting and uncommon creations. Unseen for
years and a little dirty and dusty (something that always helps!) the
entirety brought around £18,000. There were fine seed-pearl necklace
sets, one of which made £1,000, black opals, there was ivory, Georgian
cut-steel, jades, Scottish gemstones, amber and jet; this really was a
broad and well-selected collection.
A French carriage clock by Leroy et Fils bas bid to £850. Still with
its original case and key, the clock was in good working order.
A pair of ormolu candlesticks brought an impressive £350, an eighteenth
century religious oil painting on canvas, 'The Resurrection' made £420 and
two oils of hunting dogs were bid jointly to £660.