ANYONE FOR OYSTERS?

A colourfully glazed oyster stand brought into the Lichfield Saleroom in a plastic carrier bag has just sold for a staggering £2,700.

Some may describe it as lurid, but this Victorian pottery oyster stand is majolica ware and made by one of the most sought after majolica factories, George Jones of Stoke On Trent. Immediately recognised by the valuation team at Lichfield, it was put forward into Richard Winterton’s Fine Art Sale last Thursday where it generated interest from clients as far as Japan. Oysters were, (and still are) a delicacy and one can imagine the theatrical event at the Victorian dinner table as the majolica oyster stand was wheeled out to tempt dinner guests with this seafood treat.
Despite the handle being repaired in two places, it was not only deemed a rare and desirable antique but also a piece of our social history. The gavel eventually fell to a determined telephone bidder.

The next Fine Art & Jewel Auction is 21st August and entries are currently being invited. Phone 01283 511224 for further information.