painted with a broad band of flowers within blue and gilt borders intersected with medallions of flowers above a similar blue, gilt and pink band, shell and scroll handles picked out with gilt, one with blue interlaced L marks, date letter hh for 1785 and painter's mark of Genevieve-Louise Bouillat, the other red interlaced L, date letters ii for 1786 and painter's mark of François-Marie Barrat

good condition, firing cracks on handles, rims probably regilt
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. 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 Sotheby's 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."

These two seaux a bouteilles were part of a Sevres service commissioned by Louis XVI in 1786 for the Prince Albert of Saxony, Duke of Teschen, on the occasion of his visit to the King, recorded in the Journal des Présents du Roi (Archives du Ministere des Affaires Etrangeres, no. 295, f. 36v). A punch bowl (jatte à ponche) of this service was sold at Christie's London, 29 June 1987, lot 164, as well as four seaux à glace, Sotheby's New York, 30 April – 3 May 1941, lots 1361, 1361A). see David Peter, Sevres Plates and services of the 18th century, pp. 783-785 and 1376-1377.