£750
A DUCHESS OF SUTHERLAND'S CRIPPLES GUILD ARTS AND CRAFTS ALTAR CROSS
the patinated copper cross with five white metal and blue enamel plaques depicting St Matthew, St Mark, St Luke, St John and the Pelican in Piety, probably enamelled by Francis Arthur Edwardes, the whole on stepped base, with DSCG below a Ducal Coronet mark, 91cm high
The Duchess of Sutherland Cripples Guild was formed by Lady Millicent Fanny St. Clair-Erskine, Duchess of Sutherland, in 1900. The aim of the Guild was to raise funds for disabled children in the Staffordshire Potteries. Working conditions in the potteries were harsh and Millicent, nicknamed 'Meddlesome Millie' by the manufacturers, used her influence to improve those conditions, campaigning, for example, against the use of lead in the industry. Another aim of the Guild was to teach children craft skills so that they could make a living for themselves. The Guild began to produce metalwork, as well as other objects, and was an influential part of the British Arts & Crafts movement. Most items were made in copper or silver plate, but some fine examples of silver work were also produced. From 1907, the Guild began to create replicas of 16th -18th century pieces from the collections of private owners or museums. It also started to add the mark of D.S.C.G. under a ducal coronet to its pieces. A shop was opened up on New Bond Street, London and the Guild was successful at selling its creations to a very wealthy clientele, including the King and Queen. The Guild was impacted by the First World War and began to produce items in support of the conflict. By the early 1920s tastes were changing and the Guild was closed.
Fees apply to the hammer price:
Room and Absentee Bids:
28.8% inc VAT*
Online and Autobids:
31.8% inc VAT*
