Fine & Rare 19th C. Elkington Renaissance Suite

Description

A rare and extraordinary high relief sculpted copper cider suite, likely by Antoine Vechte, (1799-1868), for Elkington & Co. An early matched group, circa 1830-40's, once with electroplated silver surface, as often, with eventual wear, carefully taken down to the now dark aged copper. The silvered surface still on the underside of its matching sculpted and engraved platter, that with ancient Greek reliefs of the the heads of the three Gorgons including Medusa. The fitted pitcher and pair of beakers entirely covered via 'horror vacui', Renaissance style themes, fruit, vine work interspersed with all manner of maskets, gruesome animals and frolicking putti. Extensive search has found nothing like this set, I note some various shields, chargers etc., on the internet, priced in the numerous thousands.  Total weight of this set is approximately 4 lb. 4oz.
Dimensions:
Tray: 12.5" x 10.25"
Pitcher: 7.75" to top of handle height, 4.24" diameter at bottom
Cups: 4.5" height, 2" diameter at bottom
Further research shows two other sculptors whose work looks similar to the set presented here:
Alexandre GUEYTON (1818-1862) and Léonard MOREL-LADEUIL (1820-88). A. Gueyton work was sold at Sotherbys in November 5 sale of 2014 for 25,000. The motif is different, but shows many similarities.
More pictures can be sent on request. Please examine pictures carefully and ask questions. Sold as seen.