Two magnificent pairs of late 17th century Giltwood lions that originally adorned the Speaker’s Pew at St Margaret’s Westminster – along with a pair of Giltwood Crowns will be offered for sale Matthew Barton Ltd’s bi-annual auction of Decorative Works of Art which will take place on Tuesday, June 3, 2014 in London at 25 Blythe Road, W14.
This pair of lion figures (together with the other two lots) is recorded as coming to St. Margaret’s Ifield, West Sussex, in the third quarter of the 18th century, donated by Nicholas Spencer (died 1783). Spencer was a vestry-man at St. Margaret’s Westminster and patron of St. Margaret’s Ifield. He purchased the lions and crowns from St. Margaret’s Westminster, together with other fittings and pews, when the interiors of the Westminster church were being remodelled. The crowns can be seen in a print dated 1760 of the Speaker Arthur Onslow ‘in his seat at St. Margaret’s Church, Westminster’ by the engraver Anthony Walker (1726-1765), the lions possibly featuring in the arch above his head. The estimates begin at £1,800-2,200.
This Summer Auction is the perfect place to find the unique gift for a seasonal occasion, whether a wedding, christening or Father’s Day. Comprising more than 380 lots of Silver, Ceramics, Jewellery, Watches, Works of Art and Objects of Vertu, estimates range from £60 to £7,000. For those who cannot come along in weekdays, viewing starts on Sunday June 1, 2014 from 12noon – 4pm and there will be early evening viewing until 7pm on Monday, June 2. Live internet bidding is available via The-Saleroom.com