JANE AUSTEN INTEREST - An exceptionally fine & rare George III Punch Bowl made in London in 1793 by Edward Fernell.

JANE AUSTEN INTEREST - An exceptionally fine & rare George III Punch Bowl made in London in 1793 by Edward Fernell.

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374513

This exceptionally fine Punch Bowl stands on a large circular foot decorated with a single reeded band. The slightly baluster shaped main body, displays an everted rim and the lower section is decorated with unusual wide bat wing fluting, a form of decoration which Fernell was known for. The upper section of the front displays a shield shaped Armorial, flanked by a crossed laurel branch cartouche. The reverse is engraved with a set of contemporary script initials, also surrounded by the same cartouche. The bowl is of an exceptional gauge and is very well marked on the foot. The quality of production and design is exceptional.

The Arms are those of the Harwood family of Deane House, Hampshire, specifically for James Harwood, the seventh, born in 1770 and inherited the family estates in 1789.  The family were associated with Jane Austen: the Reverend George Austin served as rector of both Deane and nearby Steventon. George Austen lived in Deane Rectory in the 1760's, wile renovations were undertaken to Steventon Rectory. The Austen's were regular visitors to the Harwood's, and Jane met her first love, Thomas Lefroy at a ball at Deane House. It may be that this famous lady novelist enjoyed a cup of punch from this very bowl.

Edward Fernell was a very fine silversmith, who often used bat wing fluting in his work. He was apprenticed to William Grundy and occupied workshops at 119, Fetter Lane when this piece was made. Punch bowls do not exist in great quantity from this period and this is an unusual example.

Height: 5 inches, 12.5 cm.
Diameter: 11.25 inches, 28.13 cm.
Weight: 54 oz.

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