Shop floor accident leads to sterling silver decanter prize

There is nothing like an interesting historical tale to spark auction goers’ interest in a particular item and the forthcoming Young’s Auctions sale from 9.30am Friday December 12 at 229 Camberwell Road, East Hawthorn is no exception.

One of the items is an 1806 engraved sterling silver decanter holder that was presented in 1816 to a Dr Hallion – the ship’s doctor on one of the ships transporting convicts to the Australian penal colonies.

Apparently, he visited a shop where his wife was buying goods at the time and fell through the floor. The decanter was a compensation gift to overcome any ill feelings and/or injury.

The auction has several dinner sets – Royal Albert, Crown Derby and Royal Worcester – which have always been a strong selling item in porcelain.

In addition, there are Royal Worcester vases and Moorcroft items to appeal to buyers.

Apart from the decanter holder, the auction contains several sterling silver items, along with Victorian Mary Gregory and other coloured glass from the era.

For furniture buffs, there is designer furniture including a Linge Roset bed couch valued at $6500 and dining setting and matching chairs.