Object Description
A magnificent pair of antique sterling silver chargers (or sideboard dishes) with gilt finish. Decorated in the 17th century style with deep relief embossed fruit and foliage. The centre is engraved with a large coat of arms of Scott impaling Surtees for John Scott, 1st Earl of Eldon (1751-1838) and his wife Bessie. Scott was made an Earl in 1821.Weight each 3270 and 3390 grams approx, total 214 troy ounces. Diameter 64 cms. London 1816. Maker William Pitts, known for making large and impressive chargers.
Biography – William Pitts, London silversmith, apprenticed to his father Thomas Pitts I, Citizen and Goldsmith, 1769. Free 1784. First mark entered as plateworker, 1781. Second mark 1786. Third mark, in partnership with Joseph Preedy, 1791. Fourth mark, alone, 1799. Fifth mark 1806. His son, William, was apprenticed to his father 1806. Pitts specialised (alone and with Preedy) in the production of epergnes, dessert baskets and stands, and is known for his magnificent sideboard dishes.