Lot 1697 , A late 19th century replica of the Alfred Jewel in silver/silver-gilt; the upper face a polychrome enamelled image of a standing male

A late 19th century replica of the 'Alfred Jewel' in silver/silver-gilt; the upper face a polychrome enamelled image of a standing male with a rock crystal cover; the edge of the cell with the text `+AELFRED MEC HEH GEWYRCAN` (Alfred ordered me to be made) with pelleted border above, textured band below; the finial a beast-head with socket emerging from the mouth, with pelletted rim and attachment pin; to the reverse an incised acanthus motif, 48g, 63 mm (2 1/2")
Footnote:
This piece is one of a number of replicas of the Alfred Jewel (original jewel in the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford) produced during the reign of Queen Victoria, commissioned and distributed by Elliot Stock, a London bookseller and publisher. They were made in silver-gilt (with a few in gold) and were on sale until circa 1903. The Victoria and Albert Museum bought at least three examples to be used by art students for drawing practice. J. Charles Wall wrote in 1900 that 'in commemoration of the millenary of Alfred, Mr. Elliot Stock has reproduced this jewel so that it may be better known than hitherto, and by it to recall the Christian labours of that king'.

Estimate £500-800

There is some damage to the metal at the top of the jewel. There are minor chips and abrasions to the glass. The painting is extremely dirty so hard to comment on the condition as under glass.


Descriptions provided in both printed and on-line catalogue formats do not include condition reports. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Interested bidders are strongly encouraged to request a condition report on any lots upon which they intend to bid, prior to placing a bid. All transactions are governed by Gorringes Conditions of Sale.

Sold for £550