Victorian Presentation Shovel

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Object Description

Excellent quality antique commemorative shovel with ebonised and carved wooden handle. Silver plated. Life size. Presentation inscription to the front of the spade. The decorative mounts have intricate engraved borders, the deeply chased decoration with flowers and leaves.

Length 89 cms. Width 18 cms.

Stamped on the reverse with silver plate marks for S. Hart & Co.

Circa 1883.

Object Literature

A presentation trowel was traditionally given to commemorate laying the foundation stone of a building. It should bear an inscription with the name of the dignitary laying the stone, the building and the date of commencement (or completion) of the project. Special examples can sometimes have an engraved representation of the building. On rare occasions a life size presentation shovel was given to commemorate “the turning of the first sod”.

Signed/Inscribed: “Presented by the Contractors Messrs Hinchcliffe & Small to Mr George Armitage Chairman of the Mirfield Local Board, on his Cutting the First Sod for the Pumping Station in connection with the Sewerage Works. 10th April 1883.”

Object Condition

The spade is in very good condition. The silver plate is not worn.

Object Details

Dealer Opening Times

By appointment only.

Dealer Contact

Telephone
+44 (0)207 288 1939
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+44 (0)7904 297419
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Dealer Location

Vault 31-32
The London Silver Vaults
53-64 Chancery Lane
London WC2A 1QS

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