James Garrard
Ascot Gold Cup Trophy, 1897 hallmark 1897/8
Gold, ebonised wood | 42.7 x 35.0 x 35.0 cm (whole object) | RCIN 50272
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A horse racing trophy in the form of a gold Warwick Vase. The bowl has an egg and dart rim and two bifurcated vine stem handles, and is embossed on each side with masks of Hercules and Bacchus and two satyrs with the pelt of the Nemean lion below, on a circular spreading foot, and ebonised wooden pedestal base. The trophy is a copy of the Warwick Vase, a colossal antique marble vase, dating from the 2nd century AD, which was found in fragments in 1770 at Hadrian's Villa near Rome, and was acquired by Sir William Hamilton. Hamilton sold the vase to the Earl of Warwick who set it up in the grounds of Warwick Castle. The vase was engraved by Piranesi and the engravings inspired numerous copies, although it was rarely reproduced in gold like this cup.
Gold has traditionally been associated with sporting glory and the Ascot Gold Cup has been one of the most prestigious prizes in flat racing since 1807. Persimmon's victory was celebrated with scenes of 'loyal enthusiasm'.
Catalogue entry from "Gold", London, 2014.Provenance
Presented to King Edward VII when Prince of Wales as the owner of Persimmon, winner of the Ascot Gold Cup, ridden by John Watts, 17 June 1897.
Persimmon was one of the most successful horses owned by Edward VII, winning seven races as a two, three and four year old, including the Epsom Derby, the Eclipse Stakes and the Ascot Gold Cup which he won by eight lengths. -
Creator(s)
(goldsmith)Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Gold, ebonised wood
Measurements
42.7 x 35.0 x 35.0 cm (whole object)
Category
Object type(s)
Subject(s)
Alternative title(s)
Warwick Vase
Place of Production
London [Greater London]
