Rare Large Antique Cherub Garden Sundial

GBP 24,975.00

Contact Dealer To Purchase

Object Description

A large early 20th century antique garden sundial supported by three weathered lead cherubs. This rare and unusual sundial is unlike anything we have encountered before, the only other similar example residing in the grounds of Polesden Lacey, Surrey.

At the centre is the highlight – three large winged cherubs, each standing in a similar pose with one leg raised and arm lifted as if dancing merrily, together standing on a round, weathered composition stone base. Look closer and the large bronze sundial plate is equally as impressive, intricately engraved, fitted with a large ornate gnomon and signed John Francis, Kew. This is mounted on a further composition stone top, later enclosed with lead.

Standing at just over 4 ft high, this sundial will make a handsome feature at the centre of large garden, adding history and interest to any space. You can just imagine it surrounded by a circular pathway or at the meeting point of various stone paths snaking through and amongst a walled garden.

Provenance

Reclaimed from the gardens of Dunkirk Manor, a Grade II Listed Building in the Cotswolds. Previously purchased in 1967 by Michael Hicks Beach, 2nd Earl St Aldwyn, from Sir George Godfrey-Faussett. Sir George was the son of Sir Bryan Godfrey-Faussett GCVO CMG (1863-1945) who was equerry to not one, but three British Kings: Edward VII, George V and George VI. After his death, Sir Bryan’s widow was provided a grace and favour apartment at Hampton Court. Reputedly, various items acquired for Williamstrip Park, Cirencester by the second Earl were originally at Hampton Court.

Additional Dimensions

Stone base ø 64 cm

Dial ø 56 x H 30 cm

Height base to dial plate: 98 cm

Object Condition

Good structural condition. Weathered. All three cherubs previously held goblets; these are now lost. As is typical of the material, the lead is well weathered. Transports as 2 pieces, the dial screwing to the top.

Object Details

Dealer Opening Times

We are open weekly as follows:

Monday
8.00 - 16.00
Tuesday
8.00 - 16.00
Wednesday
8.00 - 16.00
Thursday
8.00 - 16.00
Friday
8.00 - 16:00
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed

Dealer Contact

Telephone
+44(0) 1981 541 155
Mobile
+44(0) 7786 916 288
Web
Email

Dealer Location

FROM THE M50 / ROSS-ON-WYE

At the end of the M50, take the A40 towards Ross-on-Wye and Monmouth. Take the A49 Hereford Road (third roundabout after leaving the M50). Ignore the first two signposts for Wormelow, stay on the A49 for approximately nine miles and take the next left turn after passing the Pilgrim Hotel, signed A466 Wormelow. Follow the road for approximately 400 meters. We are located halfway down the hill on the right-hand side. The site is called: Grove Farm / The Grove.

FROM A49 HEREFORD

Follow the A49 south from Hereford for approximately five miles. After the uphill section at the Callow, there is a layby on your right followed by one on your left. Take the next right turn onto the A466 signed Wormelow / Monmouth. Follow the road for approximately 400 meters. We are located halfway down the hill on the right-hand side. The site is called: Grove Farm / The Grove.

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