A RARE INDIAN COLONIAL SILVER MUG, CALCUTTA, 1768, MADE FROM BULLION RECOVERED FROM THE EAST INDIAMAN THE PRINCE OF WALES

plain baluster form on spreading circular foot, with double scroll handle engraved with foliate capital, engraved saved from the wreck of The Prince of Wales when she was lost off the Island of Babelmandel A.D..1768. -- 5in. (13cm.)

The Prince of Wales, Captain Clutterbuck, sailed from Mocha in Yemen for Calcutta on 31 July 1767 but foundered the next day off the island of Perim in the Bab-el-Mandeb (’Babelmandel’), the straits connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. The ship was carrying bullion of which, according to newspaper accounts, ’only about 10,000 dollars were saved‛. This mug was probably crafted on eventual arrival in Calcutta from some of this recovered silver.

Condition Report

Very good overall condition, no bruises, Calcutta mark on base with maker’s (?) cypher of crescent and river?

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.