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Napoléon's Footbath by George Bullock
Napoléon's Footbath by George Bullock
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Napoléon's Footbath by George Bullock

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Napoléon's Footbath by George Bullock

  • This footbath was created for one of the world's most important figures, Napoleon Bonaparte
  • It was part of the toilet service to be used during his exile on St. Helena
  • Due to the laurel motif's similarity to a victor's wreath, Parliament rejected it for Napoleon's use
  • It represents a small part of an amazing history that continues to fascinate people around the world
  • Get complete item description here
$24,500
Item No. 29-9147

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Description
This amazing footbath was created for Napoleon Bonaparte. It was part of the toilet service to be used during his exile on St. Helena. Just before shipment, a member of Parliament rejected the service because its laurel leaf decoration looked too much like a victor’s wreath, and he did not want Napoleon to feel he had been victorious in any way. Though never used by Napoleon, the fact that this intriguing footbath was destined for. . .
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This amazing footbath was created for Napoleon Bonaparte. It was part of the toilet service to be used during his exile on St. Helena. Just before shipment, a member of Parliament rejected the service because its laurel leaf decoration looked too much like a victor’s wreath, and he did not want Napoleon to feel he had been victorious in any way. Though never used by Napoleon, the fact that this intriguing footbath was destined for one of the most significant figures in world history makes it a most desirable and important antique.

The toilet service designed by renowned cabinetmaker and sculptor George Bullock (1777 - 1818). Considered a major and most influential furniture maker of the early 19th century, Bullock was renowned his exceptional craftsmanship. Eventually, he expanded his specialty to include fine and decorative art design. In 1814, Bullock moved to London where he established his workshop. The superior quality of his work soon made him very successful and sought after for special commissions, including three major commissions, that of Great Tew Park, Cholmondely Castle and Abbotsford. His most prestigious commission, however, was to supply furniture and accessories for the exiled Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. As the toilet set was not to be used by the deposed leader, Bullock instead sold the set to Matthew Robinson Boulton of Tew Park, Oxfordshire.  

 Circa 1816  

 13 ¾” wide x 19 ¾” length x 7 ¾” high  
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Napoléon's Footbath by George Bullock
Period: 19th Century
Origin: England
Depth: 19.75 in. (50.17 cm)
Length: 19.75 in. 
Width: 13.75 in. (34.93 cm)
Height: 7.75 in. (19.69 cm)

Buy With Confidence

For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.

On Approval

On Approval

Examine select works in person before you commit

125% Guarantee

125% Guarantee

Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years

Trusted Expertise

Trusted Expertise

Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists

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