10th May, 2016 12:00

Maritime and Scientific Models, Instruments & Art ('Courageous')

 
  Lot 142
 

142

[M] A ROYAL GEORGE OAK DECANTER BOX,...

A ROYAL GEORGE OAK DECANTER BOX, 19TH-CENTURY
the lid with copper stringing to edge and cartouche inscribed Relic of H.M.S. Royal George Sank 1782, the baize lined interior fitted for six flasks, drop handles and copper lock escutcheon -- 12½ x 16 x 11in. (31.5 x 40.5 x 28cm.)

The disaster that befell the Royal George in 1782 presented a great challenge to the Royal Navy. As the contemporary accounts in lot 143 state, engineers were confident that they could have the ship raised within a couple of months. As history records, that was optimistic and, as time slipped by, this idea was abandoned in favour of salvage. Whilst some early progress was made, the hull remained a serious obstruction to shipping for over 70 years. The operations undertaken by Cmdr. Pasley in the 1840s, where successful underwater explosives were first used, basically became the testing platform and training site which laid the foundations of 'modern' enclosed diving. The oak used in this box has areas of black staining suggesting long submersion and so is likely to have been raised in these operations.



Sold for £744
Estimated at £600 - £800

(inc. buyer's premium of 24%)


Condition Report
Some discolouration and marks to lid, otherwise in structurally fine overall condition. Variations in colour most likely due to water immersion.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.

 
A ROYAL GEORGE OAK DECANTER BOX, 19TH-CENTURY
the lid with copper stringing to edge and cartouche inscribed Relic of H.M.S. Royal George Sank 1782, the baize lined interior fitted for six flasks, drop handles and copper lock escutcheon -- 12½ x 16 x 11in. (31.5 x 40.5 x 28cm.)

The disaster that befell the Royal George in 1782 presented a great challenge to the Royal Navy. As the contemporary accounts in lot 143 state, engineers were confident that they could have the ship raised within a couple of months. As history records, that was optimistic and, as time slipped by, this idea was abandoned in favour of salvage. Whilst some early progress was made, the hull remained a serious obstruction to shipping for over 70 years. The operations undertaken by Cmdr. Pasley in the 1840s, where successful underwater explosives were first used, basically became the testing platform and training site which laid the foundations of 'modern' enclosed diving. The oak used in this box has areas of black staining suggesting long submersion and so is likely to have been raised in these operations.



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