First Annual Summer Americana Auction
Chinese export porcelain orange ‘Fitzhugh’ “Red Rover” oval vegetable dish and cover, circa 1832; of maritime interest. Painted on two sides of the cover and the dish with a peony spray within a belt and buckle badge inscribed “RED ROVER,” surrounded by the characteristic ‘Fitzhugh’ borders, pinecone knop and entwined strap handles. Width 13 inches, height 6 1/2 inches. The offered lot was part of a service commissioned for use on the sailing clipper ‘Red Rover.’ Built in Calcutta in 1830, she was modelled after the American war of 1812 blockade runner ‘Prince de Neufchatel.’ The 254-ton ship was built, owned and operated by Captain William Clifton, and was one of the fastest opium clippers running between Calcutta and Lintin during the 1830’s. The well-known firm Jardine, Matheson & Co. held shares in the ship beginning in 1832.
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