A French Gilt Bronze Mounted Hourglass and Two Associated Figural Centerpiece Bowls

Early 20th Century

the hourglass bearing engraved presentation inscription RIGONI G.B. – GIFT OF MSGR. U. DIONISI; together with a taller figural centerpiece bowl and a shorter gilt metal mounted example.
Height of hourglass 16 1/8 inches.

Property from the Estate of Michael L. Wilkie, Chicago, Illinois

Michael L. Wilkie (1941-2021) was the owner of one of the most renowned penthouses in both Chicago and the nation. Recently offered for sale for the first time in nearly fifty years, the penthouse occupies the entire top floor and roof terrace of 1500 Lake Shore Drive, which was built in 1927 by celebrated architect Rosario Candela.

Wilkie, who grew up in Long Grove, Illinois as well as Montecito, California, played a critical role in expanding his family business, the DoALL Company, which came to include over 70 companies around the globe. His father, Leighton A. Wilkie, founded DoALL and invented the metal-cutting bandsaw, one of the most widely used tools in manufacturing today. Michael Wilkie worked for and ran the business for 60 years.

Photos courtesy of Andrew Miller and The Baines Group, Jameson | Sotheby's International Realty.

Taller centerpiece bowl with a detached gilt bronze mount and scattered chips to the rim. Please request a complete condition report.

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The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

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A French Gilt Bronze Mounted Hourglass and Two Associated Figural Centerpiece Bowls

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