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J. M. Wendt, a superb Australian desk set, Colonial silver and…
Sale Title:
Auction House:
Auction Location:
Melbourne
Date:
29-May-2021
Lot No.
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Description:
J. M. Wendt, a superb Australian desk set, Colonial silver and emu egg decorated with Aboriginal figures, kangaroo, emu and goanna finished gilded highlights, mounted in a rocky form landscape with ferns and leaves, original blackwood plinth base, 19th century, stamped 'J. M. W.' with crown and lion marks, 22 cm high, 22 cm wide, 16 cm deep. Provenance: The Edward Clark collection, Melbourne. Joachim Matthias Wendt was born in Schleswig-Holstein, then part of Denmark, in 1830. He was apprenticed to a watchmaker, also learning the crafts of silversmith and jeweller. In 1848 the province was conquered by Prussia, encouraging Wendt to emigrate to South Australia, where he arrived in 1851. He first opened a shop in Pirie Street, shortly after, moving to a larger shop in Rundle Street. The family business is still carried on there, by descendants. Branches of the business were also established in Mt. Gambier and Broken Hill. Wendt produced a great variety of skilfully created pieces and many outstanding trophies. He was awarded a Royal warrant as jeweller to the visiting Duke of Edinburgh in 1867.
Estimate:
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Price:
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Category:
Precious Objects: Eggs, Mounted Emu and Other Large