William III Antique Silver Caster

Object Description

A late 17th century antique sterling silver muffineer in the traditional lighthouse design with a bayonet fitting, so typical of these very early casters. Excellent size and heavy quality, it feels good in the hand. Lovely patina. The base is plain styled with a gadrooned base, the top is simply pierced, the holes are quite large as crushed loaf sugar was still in use at this early date. Uninscribed.

Weight 304 grams, 9.7 troy ounces
Height 19.5cm. Diameter of base 6.3cm
London 1696
Makers mark for St John Hoyte
Sterling silver

Marks. Stamped with full English silver hallmarks to the body, lion and maker’s mark to the top.

ST JOHN HOYTE
St John Hoyte, free 1676. the mark of his widow, Frances Hoyte appears on plate as early as 1693, suggesting that St John had died by that time.

Object Literature

Casters didn’t become common household objects until the late 17th century. They were made in varying sizes and designs and were usually for sugar or pepper although the blind caster, the earliest form of mustard pot, was used for dry mustard. The old spelling ‘castor’ is less frequently used nowadays.

Object Condition

This useful antique sugar shaker is in very good condition. Fully functional and all matching. Excellent colour and weight

Object Details