Legendary Admiral Lord Nelson’s Memorabilia Up for Auction

By World Art News on April 5, 2024 • ( 1 Comment )

A gold and enamel mourning ring for Lord Nelson by John Salter, 1806. Estimate: £4,000-6,000 | Bonhams

Admiral Lord Nelson’s indelible mark on British history extends far beyond his iconic victory at the Battle of Trafalgar. His naval prowess, coupled with his captivating personal life, continues to captivate the public imagination. This April, Bonhams Knightsbridge is set to showcase a remarkable collection of memorabilia celebrating Nelson’s legacy in two distinct sales: Nelson Forever! A Naval Legacy in Ceramics and Glass on April 23, followed by the Marine Sale on April 24.

The spotlight of the Nelson Forever! A Naval Legacy in Ceramics and Glass sale falls on an extraordinary collection of ceramic services intimately associated with Admiral Lord Nelson. Among the treasures, a standout piece is an exquisite Coalport cup and saucer crafted by Thomas Baxter in 1804, with an estimated value of £15,000-25,000. This particular set not only represents a remarkable piece of craftsmanship but also serves as a poignant symbol of Nelson’s romantic entanglements.

Nelson and Emma: Coalport cup and saucer by Thomas Baxter, dated 1804. Estimate: £15,000 – 25,000 | Bonhams

Lord Nelson’s private life, notably his scandalous affair with Emma, Lady Hamilton, has long fascinated the British public. The cup and saucer, adorned with delicate paintings by Baxter, offer a glimpse into the intimate moments shared between Nelson and Lady Hamilton.

In a letter dated May 27, 1804, Nelson wrote to Emma, expressing his affection for the cup, which bore her likeness: “Your dear phiz (face) – but not the least like you – on the cup, is safe; but I would not use it, for all the world; for, if it was broke, it would distress me very much.” Baxter’s personal connection with Lady Hamilton, evident in his sketches of her from life, further enhances the allure of this remarkable artifact.

Moving to the Marine Sale on April 24, attention turns to a gold and enamel mourning ring for Lord Nelson, crafted by John Salter in 1806. Previously owned by Reverend Alexander John Scott, a close confidant of Nelson, this ring holds immense historical significance.

Scott, who served as Nelson’s private secretary aboard the H.M.S. Victory, was by his side when the admiral fell at Trafalgar. The ring, one of only 58 ever made, stands as a poignant testament to Nelson’s memory, cherished by those who knew him intimately.

Additionally, the Marine Sale boasts a selection of eight paintings by Montague Dawson, renowned for his masterful depictions of maritime scenes. Among the highlights is “Blue Seas – The Maitland,” estimated at £30,000-50,000. Dawson’s vivid portrayals of seafaring life offer a timeless tribute to Nelson’s naval legacy, further enriching the breadth of memorabilia on offer.

Montague Dawson (British, 1890-1973) ‘Blue Seas’ – The Maitland. Estimate: £30,000-50,000 | Bonhams

As Bonhams Knightsbridge prepares to open its doors to collectors and enthusiasts alike, these sales promise to transport attendees on a journey through the life and times of one of Britain’s most revered naval heroes. Lord Nelson’s legacy, immortalized in ceramics, glass, and memorabilia, continues to resonate across the ages, ensuring his place in history remains unassailable.

Founded in 1793, Bonhams has representatives in over 30 countries and operates flagship salerooms in London, New York, Paris, Los Angeles, and Hong Kong. It is a global network of auction houses boasting the largest number of international salerooms and offering the broadest range of collecting categories, catering to all price points. Recognized for its bespoke service and dedication to fostering local market relationships, Bonhams enhances its global platform. With 14 salerooms, Bonhams hosts over 1,000 sales annually, spanning more than 60 specialist categories such as fine art, collectibles, luxury items, wine & spirits, and collector cars.