An Empire Gilt Bronze Inkwell with Helmet-Form Cover

Circa 1810

Height 5 1/4 x width 5 1/2 x depth 3 1/2 inches.

Property from the Estate of Ward Gerard Gosselin, Batavia, IL

Ward Gerard Gosselin, known as Gerry to friends and family, was born in Aurora, Illinois to William Ward and Margaret (Bereman) Gosselin. After graduating from St. Ambrose University, he married Jeri (Bowman) Gosselin with whom he had five children. Mr. Gosselin earned his MBA degree from University of Toledo and spent the rest of his career at Lyon Metal Products, eventually becoming President and Owner.

After being introduced to the world of antiques at a young age by his Uncle, John Bereman, who was also an avid collector from the time period, Gerry Gosselin was an accomplished antiquarian who enjoyed a lifetime of travel and collecting. He was particularly interested in French history and the decorative arts of the 18th and early 19th centuries. During the course of his collecting, he met and befriended numerous dealers and fellow antiquarians, chief among them Richard “Buzz” Norton. Mr. Norton was the owner of Lake Forest’s prestigious French and English antiques shop The Country House, a family business for more than seventy years.

Gerry Gosselin’s diverse collection of French furniture, ceramics and works of art reflects thoughtful study and a connoisseur’s taste. An additional sequence of property from the Estate of Ward Gerard Gosselin will be offered in Hindman’s October 11 The Collected Home auction.