Antique Commonwealth Silver Lidded Tankard

Object Description

A rare early English silver flat top lidded tankard in sterling silver with a scroll handle and decorative thumb piece. Circa 1640 is the earliest date at which this tankard shape occurs and it’s unusual to find a tankard from this turbulent period and early date. Very charming with small size and hand beaten silver the tankard displays a lot of character; a nice feature is the pointed front of the lid. Contains 520 ml. Weight 451 grams, 14.5 troy ounces. Height 13.2 cm (to top of thumb piece). Spread 15.7 cm. Diameter 8.9 (inside top), 12.3 cms (base). London 1656. Maker probably George Dixon. Fully marked on lid and base, handle unmarked.

Biography – George Dixon, free of the Founders Company and sworn to the Ordinances of the Goldsmiths Company in 1638. A working silversmith and retailer very active during the mid 17th century and documented as a tankard maker. Records show that he bound 3 apprentices in the Founders Company and had a further 3 boys turned over to him from freemen of the Goldsmiths Company. Died c.1672. (Information courtesy of David Mitchell from his published work Silversmiths in Elizabethan and Stuart England).

Object Literature

The Commonwealth was the period from 1649 to 1660 when England and Wales, later along with Ireland and Scotland, were ruled as a republic following the end of the Second English Civil War and the trial and execution of Charles I. The monarchy was restored in 1660 with the coronation of Charles II. Silver from this period is very rare.

Object Condition

A fine and rare early English silver tankard in very good condition with no damage or restoration. Stamped on the lid and body with a full set of clear English silver hallmarks. Lovely patina. A nice feature is the small dent on top of the handle where the thumb piece has been touching for over 360 years.
Please note that this item is not new and will show moderate signs of wear commensurate with age. Reflections in the photograph may detract from the true representation of these items.

Object Details