The selling price was not disclosed, but the catalogue estimate prior to the sale was $60,000 - $100,000
The cabinet had been consigned by the niece of Adelaide businessman Alex McEwin of Adelaide. The vendor believed the cabinet to be of Italian origin, but research by Elder Fine Art discovered the maker's signature 'A. Hayball, Sheffield" which tied it to a treasure trove of information that included the entry in the catalogue of the 1851 Great Exhibition, images of the cabinet, an extensive description published in one of the Great Exhibition official publications, "The Art Journal, The Industry of All Nations" and page on the internet site of the Sheffield History Society.
The cabinet was the Gold Medal Winner for Furniture, Upholstery, Paper Hangings, Paper Mache and Japanned goods in the Great Exhibition.The Stokes Collection has been assembled over many years by retired Melbourne businessman, Cyril Stokes, who commenced collecting at the age of 18 while working for Melbourne antique dealer Godfrey Hayes.
The collection, housed in the 100 year old "Forest Glade" house, set in a 4 hectare garden estate about 65km north of Melbourne, spans the 18th and 19th century and includes European and English porcelain, marble and bronze statutory, furniture, paintings and clocks.
The Stokes Collection has now been established as a trust, and will remain in perpetuity for the public to visit and enjoy.
At present the collection is only open for viewing to group bookings, except during the months of June, July and August.