This quasi-Isnik charger sold by Crow's (10% buyer's premium) in Dorking on July 28 was characteristic Deck but had some condition problems. From the front it could have passed as perfect but to the reverse there was a crack that started from a hanging hole, running into the centre and stopping just short of the rim. Nevertheless it went to a commission bid against four telephones at £900.
The Minton factory - rivals to Deck as the Victorian era's most inventive manufactuter - was represented by a majolica urn supported by two putti. It went on low mid estimate at £1150, reflecting some restoration.
As expected, the top price of the Dorking sale was tendered for a fine mahogany longcase by John Ward of Ford Street, London. A typical London clock from the final quarter of the 18th century, it featured a fretwork pagoda top, well-chosen timbers and reeded columns plus an arched brass dial with a date aperture and subsidiary seconds dial.
It sold to a buyer in the room at £5000.
