George V Sterling Silver Scalloped Bowl by Josiah Williams & Co. (James & Josiah Moore)
Hollowware (Bowl or Dish) · Josiah Williams & Co. (James & Josiah Moore). The firm was established in Bristol in the early 19th century and became one of the most prolific provincial English silversmiths, later expanding into London with a reputation for high-quality flatware and hollowware.
Pattern: Scalloped and Lobed Border Pattern; traditional early 20th-century Georgian revival style.
Type
Hollowware (Bowl or Dish)
Maker
Josiah Williams & Co. (James & Josiah Moore). The firm was established in Bristol in the early 19th century and became one of the most prolific provincial English silversmiths, later expanding into London with a reputation for high-quality flatware and hollowware.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid composition throughout with no mixed materials visible in the hallmark section.
Dimensions
Estimated diameter 20-25 cm (8-10 inches) based on typical bowl forms; estimated weight 350-500 grams (11-16 troy oz) based on gauge visible near the rim.
Description
An elegant example of British Interwar silver, this scalloped bowl features a deep well and a classic lobed perimeter. The hallmarks are exceptionally crisp, indicating little over-polishing in that area and a high-quality strike. The form is timeless, bridging the gap between Victorian ornate styles and the cleaner lines of the mid-20th century.
Key Features
Distinctive 'JC/JM' maker's mark; crisp 1931 London hallmarks; scalloped 'monteith-style' lite lobing.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid composition throughout with no mixed materials visible in the hallmark section.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish on the interior with a scalloped, lobed rim. The piece shows signs of traditional chasing or pressing to create the outer fluted edge.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The item features a complete set of London hallmarks: 1. Maker's Mark 'JC over JM' for James & Josiah Moore (Josiah Williams & Co.); 2. Lion Passant indicating .925 sterling silver; 3. Leopard's Head indicating the London Assay Office; 4. Date letter 'Q' in a pointed shield for the year 1931.
Construction Details
Machine-pressed or spun base with hand-finished lobed edges. The hallmarks are struck into the metal after forming but before final polishing.
Functional Features
Decorative serving bowl suitable for fruit, bread, or table display. Wide scalloped rim serves as a natural grip point.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A; this appears to be a handleless bowl or dish designed to be held by the rim.
Craftsmanship Details
Displays excellent die-striking of marks and smooth graduation of the lobes. The gauge of silver appears substantial, a hallmark of the Josiah Williams & Co. workshop.
Authentication Indicators
The hallmarks are consistent in size, spacing, and font for the 1931 London register. The wear around the stamp edges is consistent with 90 years of age.
Origin & Manufacturing
London, England. Manufactured in the Josiah Williams & Co. workshop which operated in Bristol and London.
Era & Period
George V Period (1910-1936), specifically 1931. Design reflects the persistent popularity of the Georgian Revival style in the Interwar years.
Age Estimate
Dated 1931 based on the specific 'Q' date letter and the James/Josiah Moore maker's mark used during this period.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the British 'silver standard' for domestic table service during the early 30s, where sterling silver was a staple of the middle-class and elite wedding gift market.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. The surface shows heavy 'swirl' scratches consistent with aggressive cleaning or use of a coarse cloth. No major dents visible in this crop, though tarnish is present around the hallmarks and rim crevices.
Value Estimate
$400 - $750 USD, largely dependent on the total weight and overall diameter of the piece.
Care & Maintenance
Recommended cleaning with a non-abrasive cream like Wright's Silver Cream using a soft sponge. Avoid 'dip' cleaners which can strip the protective patina in the crevices of the hallmarks.
Similar Pieces
Mappin & Webb scalloped dishes; Walker & Hall lobed bowls. Josiah Williams pieces are often heavier in gauge than mass-produced retail alternatives.
Interesting Facts
Josiah Williams & Co. was famously the last provincial silversmith in Bristol to close its doors, maintaining a long tradition of high-quality craftsmanship outside the major London hubs.