C918: Miniature agate vase

This miniature hardstone vase is a mid-nineteenth century assemblage that incorporates earlier elements. The jewelled and enamelled foot is probably French and dates from the mid-seventeenth century. During the sixteenth and seventeenth century vessels made from semi-precious hardstones with elaborate jewelled mounts were highly prized for treasuries and  collectors cabinets. They became popular once again during the nineteenth century when earlier damaged fragments were often incorporated into new pieces. 

This was the ‘Antique Agate Urn mounted with Gems’ listed in the  1874 inventory of 10 Cavendish Crescent (AR153). It was displayed together with eleven mounted agates,  nine unmounted agates and other hardstone objects in an ebony display case on top of the oak mineral cabinet in Sir William Holburne’s Study (X1619).