Antique George II Silver Caster

Object Description

An early antique silver muffineer of baluster form on a cast foot. Britannia standard silver*. This lovely castor is of heavy quality and feels good in the hand. The hexagonal pull off top has alternate panels of decorative piercing. Uninscribed. Weight 239 grams, 7.6 troy ounces. Height 18 cms. London 1729. Makers mark for Thomas Farren.

Biography – Thomas Farren, apprenticed to John Denny 1695, free 1707. First mark as largeworker 1707. Second (sterling) mark 1720. Third mark 1739. Died circa 1743, the date of entry of Ann Farren’s mark. Subordinate goldsmith to the King 1723-42. Described by Arthur Grimwade “his work at best is of fine quality and shows some influence of Huguenot work.” His most important pieces are probably the fountain and cistern of 1728 at Burghley. His best known apprentice was Thomas Whipham.

Object Literature

*Britannia Standard silver. In 1696, so extensive had become the melting and clipping of coinage that the silversmiths were forbidden to use the sterling standard for their wares, but had to use a new higher standard, 95.8 per cent. New hallmarks were ordered, “the figure of a woman commonly called Britannia” and the lion’s head erased (torn off at the neck) replacing the lion passant and the leopard’s head crowned. This continued until the old standard of 92.5 per cent was restored in 1720. Britannia standard silver still continues to be produced even today.

Casters didn’t become common household objects until the late 17th century. They were made in varying sizes and designs and were usually for sugar or pepper although the blind caster, the earliest form of mustard pot, was used for dry mustard. The old spelling “castor” is less frequently used nowadays.

Object Condition

This useful antique sugar shaker is in very good condition. Fully functional and all matching. Excellent weight. Stamped with clear English silver hallmarks underneath; lion passant and makers mark to the top.

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 this item.

Object Details