A carved marble cistern, 19th century, possibly earlier

the carved single block of marble of oval form and with large masks to each side, the body with scrolled brackets headed by scallop shells either side of cornucopia filled with flowers and supported by ribbons, now on later 19th century cast-bronze acanthus and paw feet supports, losses and evidence of historic repairs

approx. 54cm high, 93cm. wide, 57cm deep; 1ft. 9 1/4in., 3ft. 1/2in., 1ft. 10 1/2in.

Condition Report:
An interesting piece that is of curious form. There are historic losses and drill holes from old repairs to the piece. It has been exposed to the elements outside in its history and it shows, with pitting and deposits to the surface. The feet later and 19th century, formerly with a marble support. The interior centred by a drainage hole with plaster at this site. Notable losses to the marble at both side rims. and the scrolled brackets on one side with very notable losses. There are chips, losses and wear to carved detail throughout. Some cracks with filler. Gallery inspection recommended.

Catalogue Note:
The piece was said to be used by the Anglesey family as a wine cooler. The marble is possibly Orange Varois.

Tracing which of the Paget houses this large marble cistern comes from has proven hard. The piece may well have always been at Plas Newydd, and it is believed that it was outside in the Park there at one stage. There is a tantalising reference in an inventory of the contents of Beaudesert, the Paget's great 16th century family seat in Staffordshire from 1863 (Staffordshire Record Office, D603/1/4) which details in the Great Hall a 'Large solid marble vase and pedestal' (p. 75). The brevity of the description does not give much away and there is the question of a stand referred to, so it is certainly not definitive. It is tempting to think that this record possibly refers to the present lot, as Beaudesert, a late Renaissance palace, would have been the perfect backdrop.