A Continental gilt bronze and malachite desk set with the arms of the Prince of Liechtenstein, possibly Russian, circa 1840

comprising: inkwell with crown finial, chamberstick with cherub bearing a crown, bell with handle formed as a figure in Renaissance dress, and a plateau, all set with malachite panels and cabochons, each piece applied with accollé arms. length of plateau 31.8cm. Estimate 15,000—25,000 USD. Lot Sold 12,500 USD

PROVENANCE: The arms are those of Aloys II, Prince of Liechtenstein (1796-1858) and his wife Countess Franziska de Paula Kinsky von Wchinitz und Tettau (1813-1881), whom he married in 1831.

Sotheby's. A Celebration of the English Country House. 09 Apr 09. New York. www.sothebys.com photo courtesy Sotheby's