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A 9ct gold model of the Foundation stone of the George's river…
Auction House:
Auction Location:
Sydney
Date:
1-Nov-2020
Lot No.
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Description:
A 9ct gold model of the Foundation stone of the George's river bridge by William Kerr, the rectangular 'stone' with engraved border and motto and applied enamel initials Rtb for R.T. Ball, the Secretary of public works, on a moulded rectangular wooden plinth with plaque inscribed: 'Presented to the Hon. R.T. Ball Minister of works by the Ratepayers of the Sutherland shire, 7th June 1924, maker William Kerr, height 15 cm, width 22 cm, depth 17.5 cm. Provenance: The Ruth Simon Collection, privately acquired from the above in 2005. Other Notes: a major infrastructure project of the time, the George's river bridge replaced a steam punt service between Tom Ugly's point and horse rock that had operated since the 1860s. By the early 20th century and with the popularity of the automobile there were delays of several hours on weekends and public holidays and the Sutherland shire Council campaigned the NSW state Government to build a bridge across the George's river and link the shire to the north. The foundation stone of the eventual Pratt truss bridge was laid on 7th June 1924 and the bridge opened on 26th April 1929. It is now known as Tom Ugly's bridge and was duplicated with a modern bridge for southbound traffic in 1987, William Kerr was established as a leading silversmith in Sydney by the late 19th century, and after his death in 1896 the firm continued until 1938. He was known for his centrepieces and distinctive silver trophies and was extensively patronised by the Sydney city Council.
Estimate:
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Price:
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Category:
Unclassified