29/1/2007

Anglesey has regained a number of unique maritime treasures following a successful visit to the Sotheby auctioneers.

A volume of work and a chart penned in 1748 by Lewis Morris were snapped up at the world famous London auction house.

Lewis Morris, one of Anglesey's celebrated Morrisiaid Mon, boasted many talents, and was widely renowned as a great literary scholar, land surveyor and hydrographer.

The Rev. Dr. Dafydd Wyn Wiliam, a leading authority on Lewis Morris and his three brothers, attended the auction, bidding for the precious artefacts on behalf of Cymdeithas y Morrisiaid and Isle of Anglesey County Council.

Lewis Morris' s book Plans of Harbours and a chart outlining the west coast of Wales made up Lot 306 at the Sotheby's auction. The items, secured for the modest sum of £2,000, formed part of the Wardington library, a large collection of charts, maps and geographical books.

Rev. Dr. Wiliam explained, "Working in partnership with the County Council, we were successful in our bid to buy these items, which represent an important piece of the island's rich heritage. I hope that we can continue to work with the Authority in the future, and possibly bring other treasures back to the island."

Education and Lifelong Learning portfolio holder, Councillor John Meirion Davies, welcomed the artefacts' return to Anglesey.

He added, "The Morris Brothers made a huge contribution to Welsh culture, and its fitting that these unique artefacts were returned to their rightful home on Anglesey. Lewis Morris' works will receive a warm welcome at the Anglesey Archives building, in Llangefni, and will be there for all to see."

The Morris Brothers,Lewis, William, Richard and John, were from Dulas. They are remembered for their cultural activities, which included founding of the Honourable Society of Cymmrodorion to promote literature, science and arts in relation to Wales and the Welsh people.

Sotheby's is largest, and one of the oldest, fine art auctioneers in the world. It is also the premier auction house for antiques, books, jewellery, toys, dolls, and other collectible memorabilia.