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13x11x11" One of the more amazing pieces i've ever owned. Shipboard Tantalus or brandy service owned by Leopoldo Carvajal, the Marquis de Pinar del Rio. (Marquess of the Pines of the River) The Marquis, an administrator for the Spanish Crown, in the Pinar del Rio region, was a Senator in the Cuban Government, & was also the owner of one the finest hotels in Havana at the turn of the century. See, /havana_hotel_history.htm
He purports to have been instumental in developing the tobacco/cigar industry in the Pinar region, where the finest tobaccos in the world are grown. Aquired from a widow who only knew it came from an "ancestor of my husband". Purchased only because it was unique, I was enlightened as to it's origination by a saavy Cuban customs official who recognized the coat of arms.
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| After an inital denial for export papers & an attempt to purchase it from us, a large "tip", expedited it's freedom to this country. It has been appraised by Lee Young, of Freemans Auction in Philadelphia, Americas oldest auction house, & was featured on The Antiques Road Show in January, 2nd hour. Lee seems to think it of Portuguese origin, my inclination is Spanish. It is Baroquely inlaid, trimmed with mother of pearl, & bronze mounted. The serving tray is of solid silver, (less than sterling) the service is crystal & engraved with the Marquis coat of arms. One glass has been replaced. Beside some minor touching up, it is in quite amazing original condition. |
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