Description
simple bucket sconce above a tapered square section stem, on a domed foot with reeded rim. With accompanying letter of provenance
Dimensions
19.5cm high, base 11cm diameter
Footnote
Provenance:
MacDonald family collection
Stuart of Appin family collection
to Miss J E Oliphant
gifted to Miss Threipland of Fingask
Threipland family collection
By direct descent
Fingask Castle, 26th – 28th April 1993, Christies, Lot 1321
Notes:
The weight placed on the relation and custodianship the Threipland and Fingask names carried is borne out with the gift of such an important and personal gift from one Jacobite family to another. Rather than lose the item's history or remove it from its native land it was gifted to the 'protector' of the cause.
Sold with accompanying label stating 'Candle stick used by Prince Charles when in the MacDonald house, see Miss Oliphant letter indicating (?) the tale' and with a handwritten letter detailing provenance and gift which reads
"Perth
72 George Str
15 Apr 1814
My Dear Miss Threipland
I am quiting my own beloved land. I take the liberty of sending you a candlestick which in itself has no value. But it was the one that was used by our beloved but ill used Prince while he took refuge under the roof of one of the noble family of the McDonalds who fought monfuly for him it has never been used since it was last used by Prince Charlie in his Bedroom.
Do not think my thoughts for my Dear Prince is lessened by parting with this, since that descended through my forefather the Stuart of Appin I felt certain that while a branch of the noble family of Fingask is left this, we think was an admirer at some of Prince Charles' campaign he can fully find pardon me and say a feeling of pride rises in my chest that I have the privilege of this giving. My sincere thanks to your care and I assure you of feel happily, yes happy for hoping that can ****, should I see this country fall into the hands of those that loved not, nor would not fight for my ill used Prince.
I close this with Miss Elphinstone and great fine feelings and remain, dear Miss Threipland
Sincerely
June E. Oliphant. "