Object Description
A beautifully modelled antique silver hunting cup in the form of a fox head. Fine features and lovely expressive face. Gilt interior. Below the snout is a hand engraved fox crest with the initial “J.V.F.” Very cleverly constructed so that the cup can stand inverted on the ears and nose when filled with liquid.
Weight 253g, 8.1 troy oz.
Length 14cm, 5.5ins. Width 17cm.
London 1817.
Maker Houghan, Royes and Dix.
Sterling silver.
Marks. Stamped with a full set of English silver hallmarks just above the rim.
Maker: Soloman Hougham‚ Soloman Royes & John East Dix
Soloman Hougham, Soloman Royles & John East Dix, London silversmiths, marks entered in partnership on 13.10.1817.
Soloman Hougham, free by redemption 07.06.1786 as goldsmith. He was already an established worker since Henry, son of Henry Hougham, was apprenticed to him in 1789. Livery 1791. Partner with Charles Hougham from 1790-93. 1st mark entered as plateworker 18.01.1793, address Aldersgate St. 2nd mark (2 sizes) 06.02.1793. 3rd mark (2 sizes) 13.11.1793. 4th mark, in partnership with Soloman Royes & John East Dix 13.09.1817, address 138 Aldersgate St. The partnership apparently dissolved by 19.09.1818 when Royes and Dix entered a separate mark. Died between 1818 and 1822.
Solomon Royes, apprenticed to Solomon Hougham 05.08.1789, free 06.12.1797. 1st mark entered in partnership with Solomon Hougham & John East Dix 13.09.1817, address 138 Aldersgate St. 2nd mark with Dix only 19.09.1818, same address. 3rd mark alone 22.02.1822, same address. Grimwade comments “He seems to have been adept in getting rid of his partners in quick succession while retaining his hold on the premises”.
John East Dix, apprenticed to Solomon Hougham 02.12.1795, free 05.01.1803. 1st mark entered as plateworker in partnership with Soloman Hougham & Soloman Royes 13.09.1817, address 138 Aldersgate St. 2nd mark with Solomon Royes only 19.09.181, same address. Livery 20.01.1824. Died 12.10.1858.
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