A fine antique sterling silver tea caddy box of plain circular form having a central divider and lock. An attractive feature is the decorative finial in the form of a Chinese gentleman holding a fish. The decoration is particularly fine, with gadroon edge borders and concentric bands of hand engraved leaf motifs, greek key design and basket weave. Weight 698 grams, 22.4 troy ounces. Height 16.5 cms. Diameter 16 cms. London 1807. Maker Peter & William Bateman.
Hester Bateman (1708–1794) is probably the most well known of all English lady silversmiths and her work is highly collectible. She married in 1732 the goldsmith John Bateman, and together they worked a small silversmith business. Following the death of her husband in 1760 she successfully ran her family business for thirty years and was succeeded in turn by her sons, grandson and great-grandson and the Bateman family silversmithing company lasted until the middle of the nineteenth century. Hester had at least five children – Jonathan, Peter, probably John (who may have been connected with the business, although he is only recorded as a watch and clock-maker), Letitia (who married Richard Clarke), and Ann. Only Peter, Letitia, and Ann were still living at the time of Hester’s death. Hester registered her mark at Goldsmith’s Hall ‘April 16, 1761, as Hester Bateman in Bunnhill Row and this mark was used until 1790. Hester died in 1794. Her sons PETER BATEMAN and JOHN BATEMAN registered their mark in 1790. This partnership was of short duration as Jonathan, who married Ann Downlinff, died in 1791. In 1791 the mark was changed to PETER and ANN BATEMAN, Jonathan’s widow. In 1800 was registered the mark of PETER BATEMAN, ANN BATEMAN and WILLIAM (I) BATEMAN. William Bateman was the son of Jonathan and Ann Bateman who in 1800 entered in partnership with his uncle Peter and his mother Ann. In 1805, after the retirement of Ann, was registered the new mark of PETER BATEMAN and WILLIAM (I) BATEMAN. From 1815 to 1840 WILLIAM (I) BATEMAN was registered alone. From 1839 to 1843 was registered the mark of WILLIAM (II) BATEMAN (son of William I) & DANIELL BALL.
This elegant silver box is in very good condition with no damage or restoration. Excellent colour. The engraving is still crisp. With a full set of clear and matching English silver hallmarks. The lock has not been tested (no key). There is a small shallow dent within the basket weave decoration.
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.
By appointment only.
