William III Antique Silver Porringer, London 1681.

Object Description

A splendid early English silver 2 handled cup with decorative shaped caryatid handles. Good size. The quality and colour is excellent. The plain body has a deep embossed band of acanthus leaf decoration. Hand engraved to the front is a contemporary coat of arms for Pocock within a decorative plumage cartouche. The reverse has a later inscription dated 1793 in old fashioned script gifting this to a relative.

Weight 632g, 20.3 troy oz.
Height 12.2cm. Spread across handles 23.51cm. Diameter 15.4cm.
London 1681.
Maker “IA in monogram”.
Sterling silver.

Marks. Stamped on the edge of the rim with a full set of clear English hallmarks. The maker’s mark “IA in monogram” is listed in Jackson’s page 138.

Arms. These are for Pocock(e) of Berkshire.

Inscription reads “The GIFT of Mary Atkinson To her Son James Atkinson 1st Oct 1793”.

No maker assigned

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Object Literature

Porringers are two handled bowls and some have a cover. They can also be known as caudle cups although the origin of the porringer was for porridge and the caudle cup was for a type of broth. From the eighteenth century onwards, porringers and cups and covers were used mainly as centrepieces or ornaments. In recent times they have seen a resurgence in popularity for drinking and on the dining table. They make a very attractive baby gift.

Object Condition

This rare antique silver porringer is in very good condition with a small amount of wear commensurate with age. Good patina. The engraving still has good definition.

Object Details