The 250-plus lots, from the estate of local jeweller Michael Paint, represent the most important collection of its type offered at auction. Paint, who was proprietor of N St J Paint and Sons, collected for over 50 years, buying both at auction and within the trade.
James Bridges, director of Martel Maides, told ATG: “This collection really represents a lifetime’s passion. It is a unique opportunity to see and bid for pieces from a famous local collection, which will never be seen together in one place again.”
The collection spans the spectrum of island silver from the early 17th century to the modern era. It includes trophy lots by Guillaume Henry, Robert Barbedor, Pierre Maingy and Philippe Le Vavasseur dit Durell.
A hot milk jug by Henry, inspired by a design by Paul de Lamerie, which was featured on the cover of the 1969 book Old Channel Islands Silver by Richard Mayne, is estimated at £25,000-£30,000.
Alongside over 30 examples of the trademark Guernsey christening cup (estimates from £300-1000) are other more modestly estimated pieces, including spoons, sugar tongs, sauce ladles and local prize medals.
Viewings of the Paint collection will be held in both Jersey and Guernsey prior to the sale: at the National Trust of Jersey property, 16 New Street, St Helier (October 8-10) and at the Priaulx Library, St Peter Port (October 13-16).
