Object Description
A superb antique sterling silver flask. Graceful plain form and super large size. Inscribed to the front with a hand engraved lion crest and the name “John Bayley Esq” and to the reverse “Nymph”, the name of Bayley’s* luxury sailing ship. The cap unscrews and the top band is gold plated. Contains a hefty 950 ml. Weight 500 grams, 16 troy ounces. Height 21.5cm. Base 7.2 x 5.4cm. London 1828. Maker Mary Ann & Charles Reilly.
Biography – John Reily, no record of apprenticeship or freedom, first mark entered as smallworker 1799 in partnership with Mary Hyde, his future wife. Second mark, alone, 1801. 3rd mark 1802. 4th mark, 2 sizes, 1805. 5th mark 1826. Died 1816.
Charles Reily, son of John Reily, no record of apprenticeship or freedom, first mark entered as smallworker, in partnership with his mother Mary Reily, 1826. 2nd mark entered as plateworker, in partnership with George Storer, 1829. 3rd mark, 2 sizes, 1840. Their later marks are found mainly on fine quality snuff boxes and other small pieces.