Charles II Antique Silver Beaker, London 1672.

Object Description

A charming antique silver cup dating back to the reign of Charles II. Of tapering cylindrical form it has a flared rim and simple foot wires. Good chunky size. Hand engraved to the body with a band of strapwork interspersed with foliate and scroll motifs. The front is stipple engraved with initials ‘MM’ over “NS” with the date 1692. Fine patina and hand beaten finish.

Contains 520ml.
Weight 173g, 5.5 troy oz. Height 10.8cm, 4.2ins. Diameter of top 9.6cm.
London 1672.
Maker “TC”.
Sterling silver.

Marks. Stamped underneath with a full set of clear English silver hallmarks.

No maker assigned

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Object Literature

Fire at Goldsmiths Hall. It is unusual to have a maker’s name for a piece of silver of this early date as there are no precise records of silver makers’ marks prior to 1697. All records were destroyed in the fire at Goldsmiths Hall in 1681 when the Assay Office and apartments of the Assayer and Clerk in the south west wing of the building were burned down. From 1697 onwards Goldsmiths Hall has preserved a complete record of workmen’s marks, addresses, together with their names and the dates. Sometimes the details of makers can be discovered from old records such as the inventories of noble houses and other institutions.

The first surviving record at Goldsmiths Hall is the 1682 copper plate made to start the recording process again. A recent study by Dr David Mitchell, supported by Goldsmiths Hall, resulted in the publication of his 2017 “Silversmiths in Elizabethan and Stuart London” which identifies previously unknown makers marks and assigns marks struck on existing plate to individuals (attributions for 540 separate marks).

Object Condition

The beaker is in good condition with signs of use over the years. Possible earlier repairs to the rim and underside. The engraving is still crisp. This cup has been water tested and does not leak.

Object Details