Robert Adam George III Silver Gilt Vase by Daniel Smith and Robert Sharp London

A fine and rare 18th century George III silver-gilt vase by Daniel Smith and Robert Sharp, London 1770. Based on a design by the Italian printmaker Stefano della Bella (1610-1664). The design was adapted by the architect Robert Adam (1728-1792).

The overall form of the vase and some of the ornaments, such as the drapery swags, figural masks and acanthus leaves on the body, are based on a design by the Italian printmaker Stefano della Bella (1610-1664). He produced about 1,400 prints during his lifetime which were very influential, particularly a series of designs for vases in Raccolta di Vasi Diversi, published between 1639 and 1648. The design was adapted by the architect Robert Adam (1728-1792), whose drawing, now in Sir John Soane's Museum in London and was copied by the highly-fashionable silversmithing partnership Daniel Smith and Robert Sharp.

Daniel Smith and Robert Sharp’s partnership ran from 1763-1788. They supplied high-quality silver and silver gilt in the Neo-classical style to the most fashionable retailers and clients, including the Prince Regent. They were the principal manufacturers of a series of magnificent race cups, one of which was designed by the architect Robert Adam (1728-1792) and another is in the Royal collection

Robert Adam (1728-1792) was arguably the most famous eighteenth century British architect and designer, whose remarkable career in partnership with his brothers James and William has been thoroughly documented elsewhere and whose major commissions can still be seen at Harewood House, Kedleston Hall, Kenwood, Syon House and Osterley Park. Robert established his business in London after a Grand Tour study visit of Paris and Italy from 1754-1758 and in 1761 he was appointed architect of the King's Works.

Robert is probably best known for his collaboration with Thomas Chippendale which resulted in some of the finest neo-classicist designs of the time, most notably at Harewood House. He also collaborated with John Linnell, Ince and Mayhew, Vile and Cobb, Daniel Smith and Robert Sharp, John Parker and Edward Wakelin.

Dimensions: 21.5cm., 8 ½in. high

Weight: 630gr., 20 ½oz.

Marked on the Base and cover

The vase was arguably the most fashionable interior design accessory of the late 18th century with the silver-gilt variant being at the top of the market, and a distinctive icon of the Neo-classical style. Inspired by the revival of interest in the antique world, the vase was often based, as here, on engraved design sources.

Further reading

A silver vase by John Parker and Edward Wakelin of the same scale, design and date is currently on display at the Victoria and Albert Museum, South Kensington (see the last image in photos.) Accession number: 564:1, 2-1874

A horse racing trophy in the form of a silver gilt two-handled cup and cover Presented to Sir William Foulis and Tatton Sykes as the owners of Trajan, winner of the Handicap Plate at Lincoln, 25 June 1813. Bequeathed to Queen Victoria by Christopher Sykes, 1898. The Royal Collection Trust: RCIN 50266

It should be noted that this is quite simply a masterpiece of museum grade.

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