| EXCEPTIONAL STONE COMPOSITE EAGLE, ATTRIBUTED TO AUSTIN & SEELEY, LEADING ENGLISH MANUFACTURERS OF GARDEN ORNAMENTATION, circa 1826-1850’s |
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| Web ID: | pat-840 |
| Available: | On Hold |
| Frame Size (H x L): | |
| Flag Size (H x L): | 32" tall x 28" wide x 22" deep |
| Description: | |
| Fierce and beautifully detailed, composition stone eagle, attributed to Austin & Seeley of London. Made circa 1850, the surface is exceptional with great patina, beautifully weathered. Not a great deal is known about Felix Austin’s early years, but he was in business by 1826, possibly prior. The June 13th, 1827 issue of the “Morning Advertiser,” a London paper, reported that he had a large quantity of stock available in what Austin described as “Artifical Stone.” Describing himself as an architect, statuary mason, and sculptor, his material was made from Portland cement, broken stone, pounded marble and coarse sand, and he encouraged leading architects and designers to work for him. He was, in fact, the first English maker to use cement to make a stone composite, since copied in various forms by countless makers. Around 1840, he entered into partnership with John Seeley, who trained at the Royal Academy Schools and likewise produced artificial stone. Together Austin & Seeley became one of the leading manufacturers of garden ornament in mid-19th century England. Their work was known for the quality of artisanship and detail, as well as its durability. Queen Victoria found it so exceptional that she became a patron, acquiring garden ornamentation from them for various royal estates, including Hampton Court, Palace Blickling Hall, The Swiss Garden, and Osborne House. Condition: There are repairs at the bottom of the tail. There are multiple painted surfaces, partially worn. Very good considering the 175-200 year age within this class of material. |
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| Video: | |
| Collector Level: | Flags for the truest Patriots. My best offerings |
| Flag Type: | |
| Star Count: | |
| Earliest Date of Origin: | 1826 |
| Latest Date of Origin: | 1850's |
| State/Affiliation: | Other |
| War Association: | 1777-1860 Pre-Civil War |
| Price: | Please call (717) 676-0545 or (717) 502-1281 |
| E-mail: | info@jeffbridgman.com |
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