4606

Circa 1862

ENGRAVED TURBAN SHELL COMMEMORATING THE "GREAT EASTERN" AND THE 1862 WORLD'S FAIR

Depicts a port view of the steamship flying a red flag off the stern, a shield-shaped cartouche listing the ship's tonnage, power and dimensions, a view of the "Great International Exhibition 1862. [...]", a Prince of Wales's feathers, and the inscription "This Shell Is most respectfully Presented Thomas Schofield Esqr. As a mark of grateful Respect By R.A. Sanders". Some images surrounded by rope borders and entwined with grape vines. Signed adjacent to presentation inscription "Jas. Sexton. Sculpt. 17 Bath Place". Finely detailed and richly inked.
Maximum length approx. 6.25".
Condition: No significant wear or damages noted.

The absence of a condition report does not imply an object is free of defects. All items may have normal signs of age and wear commensurate with their age; these issues will likely not be mentioned in the condition report. Please contact Eldred's before the auction with any condition questions. Questions about condition will not be answered after purchase. Condition reports are provided as a courtesy, and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. Important note on frames: Frames are not guaranteed to be in the same condition as they are in the item photograph. Due to handling and shipping, many frames, especially antique ones, are prone to losses. If you have questions about the condition of a frame, please contact us prior to the auction. 

  • Provenance: Notes:
    The 692-foot
    Great Eastern was by far the largest ship ever built at the time of her 1858 launch, with a capacity of 4,000 passengers and the ability to sail from England to Australia without refueling. This example lists her as 24,500 tons, though other sources claim 18,915. She had five funnels, unusual for the time, and the largest set of paddle wheels.

    She was damaged by an explosion during her maiden voyage, but after repairs, she operated as a passenger liner between Britain and North America for several years before being converted to a cable-laying ship, notably laying the first lasting transatlantic telegraph cable in 1866. Her career ended as a floating music hall, and she was broken up in 1889.

    The International Exhibition of 1862, also known as the Great London Exposition, was held in South Kensington on a site covering 27 acres. More than 28,000 exhibitors from 36 countries took part in the world's fair, showcasing advancements in technology, industry and the arts -- the manufacture of ice by an early refrigerator caused a sensation.

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February 27, 2025 9:30 AM EST
East Dennis, MA, US

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