Hallmarked in London in 1934, this very handsome pair of Sterling Silver Candlesticks, are a wonderful Arts & Crafts & Gothic Revival mix of styles, and would fit a large candle, similar to an alter candle. Each candlestick measures 16″(40.5cm) tall, by 7″(18cm) wide, by 7″(18cm) deep. Together the pair weigh an impressive 52.6 troy ounces.
Albert John Wilkins was born in Islington in 1881, and apprenticed to Frank Wheeler (of Wakely & Wheeler) in 1896 at the age of 15.
In 1911 he was recorded in the census as being a ‘Teacher of Art Metalwork” and was noted as being in the employ of London County Council.
By 1913 it would appear that Wilkins was working alongside H. G. Murphy at the newly opened workshop in Kenton Street. Murphy enlisted in 1915, and Wilkins along with Murphy’s wife Jessie ran the workshop until his return.
Wilkins first mark was registered in August 1915 as a partner in the firm ‘Murphy and Wilkins‘, and his first mark working alone was registered in June 1926.
By 1939 he is recorded as living in Bermondsey and being a ‘Jeweller and Silversmith and a Teacher in Art Schools’.
Very good
