An early English antique silver beaker of plain design with simple foot wires. Hand engraved around the top and middle body is a band of hatched foliate decoration, a decoration popular from the Elizabethan period through to this date.
Contains 300 ml.
Weight 143 grams, 4.5 troy ounces.
Height 10.2cm. Diameter of top 8cm.
London 1676.
Maker “BM” within a heart shaped shield (Jacksons page 141).
Sterling silver.
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. A recent study by Dr David Mitchell, supported by Goldsmiths Hall, resulted in the publication of his 2017 “Silversmiths in Elizabethan and Stuart London”. This reference work identifies previously unknown makers marks and assigns marks struck on existing plate to individuals (attributions for 540 separate marks).
Very good condition. Excellent patina. The engraving is still crisp. The cup has been tested for water retention and does not leak.
By appointment only.
