A charming antique sterling silver bowl of small size. Very plain styling and excellent colour. The original owners initials are incised underneath. Weight 179 grams, 6.6 troy ounces. Height 6.9 cms. Diameter 11 cms. London 1740. Maker Jonathan Fossey.
Biography – Jonathan (John) Fossey, London silversmith, apprenticed to Thomas Tearle 1724, free 1731. 1st mark entered as largeworker 1733. 2nd mark undated but pre-1734. Died 1746.
Early sugar bowls, like the small size teapot, were of small capacity due to the rarity of tea. Small circular bowls from the late 17th century can occasionally be found, these were probably tea bowls originally but by 1710 the sugar bowl started to appear, often with a cover; these were usually round however octagonal examples are very rare and extremely desirable. Around 1730 larger bowls were introduced, possibly for slops and by the 1760s the swing handled sugar or sweetmeat baskets were available.
This useful bowl is in very good condition with no damage. Stamped underneath with a full set of clear English hallmarks.
By appointment only.
