English Carved Ivory Micro Miniature of a Three Masted Frigate (1700 to 1900 England)

Ivory, Gilt Frame, Glass

G Stephany and J Dresch worked in London and Bath in the late 18th century and became so popular amongst fashionable society they were granted the title of ‘Sculptors in Miniature on Ivory to their Majesties’ by George III. They exhibited at the Royal Academy and their unique carved ivory scenes were regarded as marvels of micro-technique. The tiny, but accurate naturalistic construction made their micro miniatures unable to ever be replicated. Eventually their work was so highly sought after that wealthy collectors would outbid each other at the exhibitions in an attempt to obtain them.

A Very Fine English Carved Ivory Micro Miniature of a Three Masted Frigate Under Sail upon a blue stained ivory sea with men on board and in the rigging
By G Stephany and J Dresch
The ivory under a convex glass contained within a black lacquer and parcel gilt wood frame
Circa 1790

Size: 19.5cm high, 18cm wide – 7¾ ins high, 7 ins wide
See Finch and Co catalogue no. 14, item no. 41, for another Stephany and Dresch
cf: ‘Elfenbeinskunst’ P.W. Hartman; illus no’s 92, 93 and 95