12th Feb, 2025 10:00

British and Continental Ceramics and Glass, Paintings and Prints Auction

 
  Lot 2
 

An interesting 'Kit Kat Club' glass onion decanter or carafe, early 18th century

An interesting 'Kit Kat Club' glass decanter or carafe, early 18th century, the onion-shaped body point engraved 'THE KIT KAT CLUB at the Fountain Tavern on the Strand', with a slightly domed base and rough pontil, 20.5cm high

The Kit-Kat Club was a lively gathering of politically minded and literary figures in early 18th-century London. The members, staunch supporters of the Whig cause, would discuss politics, literature, and the day's issues.

They first met in Shire Lane, just off Fleet Street, at the Trumpet Tavern, an inn run by Christopher Catt. As the group grew in prominence, they moved on to grander locations, including the Fountain Tavern on The Strand (where Simpson’s-in-the-Strand now stands) and later to a purpose-built meeting room at Barn Elms, the residence of their secretary, Jacob Tonson. Notable members include the Dukes of Somerset, Richmond, Grafton, Devonshire, and Marlborough; the Earls of Dorset, Sunderland, Manchester, Wharton, and Kingston; the Earl of Stanhope; Viscount Cobham; Lord Halifax; Sir Robert Walpole and Sir John Vanbrugh; writers Joseph Addison, William Congreve and John Locke, as well as artist Sir Godfrey Kneller.

Sold for £1,650


Condition Report

Good condition with no cracks, chips or repairs. However, there are numerous small scratches around the main body and mossing to the base commensurate with age and use. Please see images.

Bidding indicates acceptance of the condition of the lot.  All lots are sold subject to general wear and tear commensurate with age and handling over time and only obvious faults will be mentioned after a visual inspection. If you have particular specialist questions on any lot, please state these before bidding since we cannot and will not provide a forensic examination of any lot but only a general condition report as a guide only. All condition reports given by Halls Holdings Ltd's representatives or agents are statements of opinion and not fact. If you require any further information about any lots in this auction or about bidding please do not hesitate to contact us again.

 
Images

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