Spirit burner c.1798-1809
Silver gilt | 240 g (Weight) (whole object) | RCIN 48483
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Cylindrical silver gilt spirit burner. Domed cover embossed with a rosette of foliage and border of swags; fitted with a detachable funnel/wick holder. Housed in a silver gilt case formed from two circular bands and three uprights, hinged at either end and cast with torches.
Struck with maker's marks of Martin-Guillaume BiennaisProvenance
Martin Guillaume Biennais (1764–1843) was originally a cabinet maker and tabletier (dealer and maker of small objects) with established premises at 283 rue St Honoré by 1789 'Au Singe violet' (at the sign of the purple monkey). With the ending of guild restrictions following the passing of the Chapelier laws in 1791 he diversified his business to include the production of silver and gilt items. He supplied Napoleon Bonaparte and his family from as early as 1798 including, in 1804, the Emperor's crown and sceptre for his coronations in Paris and Milan.
Purchased by Queen Mary in 1934 -
Creator(s)
(nationality)Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Silver gilt
Measurements
240 g (Weight) (whole object)
Category
Object type(s)