Page 85 - Alan Blakeman Catalogue Saturday 11 September 2021

191. SEALED SHAFT & GLOBE BOTTLE.
7.2ins tall, c.1665-70. This example is the one that was infamously washed on being extracted
straight out of the ground, and it cracked in half! However, the seal itself is the clearest and crispest of all found, whilst the crack
itself (if carefully cleaned at the joint) is a very ‘snug’/ perfect fit - possibly restore the crack could
be made invisible/ impossible to see? Features extraordinary and magnificent all over body golden
iridescence. The round matrix seal presents a shield surmounted by a coronet bearing three crescents,
two upper and one lower divided by a band (a ‘fesse ermine’). The shield is the arms of the
Earls and Barons of Coventry who resided in the now National Trust owned property of Croome
Court, adding considerably to its antiquarian interest. Additional images can be found on
easyliveauction.com. This bottle is a very fine example with a complete string rim and
undamaged top area. Simply ‘oozes’ enormous character. An exceptional & important
offering, the very best of the Croome discoveries and a unique opportunity to
acquire such a prestigious and historically important early wine bottle form with
provenance!
NR £6,000-8,000+