George III London Sterling Silver Flatware by Thomas Wallis II, 1808
Flatware (likely a Table Spoon or Dinner Fork) · Thomas Wallis II, a renowned London silversmith specializing in high-quality flatware. He was apprenticed to Thomas Wallis I and is noted for his clean, elegant Neo-Classical work during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Pattern: Old English Pattern (Traditional)
Type
Flatware (likely a Table Spoon or Dinner Fork)
Maker
Thomas Wallis II, a renowned London silversmith specializing in high-quality flatware. He was apprenticed to Thomas Wallis I and is noted for his clean, elegant Neo-Classical work during the late 18th and early 19th centuries.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity)
Dimensions
Typical Table Spoon length 21-23cm; estimated weight 60-75 grams.
Description
This is a quintessential example of Regency-era silver flatware. The hallmark sequence is exceptionally crisp, providing a textile history of the piece's origin. The use of script 'TW' and the specific shield shapes for the London hallmarks verify its 1808 manufacture. Its minimalist design allowed the quality of the silver and the skill of the forging to take center stage.
Key Features
Crisp, well-preserved London hallmarks; Thomas Wallis II maker's mark; strictly regulated George III duty mark.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity)
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish with characteristic age-appropriate patination. The handle style is plain and unadorned, reflecting the late Georgian preference for functional elegance.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Maker's mark 'TW' in script for Thomas Wallis II; Lion Passant (British Sterling standard); Leopard's Head Crowned (London Assay Office); Date letter 'n' (1808); Sovereign's Head Duty Mark (George III).
Construction Details
Hand-forged from a single ingot of silver. The marks are deeply struck into the stem, showing the characteristic 'pinch' of the metal around the punches.
Functional Features
Tapered handle for balance and ergonomic grip; structural thickness at the mid-stem to prevent bending.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid sterling silver handle, characteristic 'Old English' rounded end with a slight downturn.
Craftsmanship Details
Superior hand-forged quality; the density of the metal and the sharp edges of the hallmark punches indicate a high-pressure strike on a cold-worked surface.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark sequence is chronological and geographically consistent. The 'n' date letter aligns perfectly with the Gothic-style shield used in London in 1808. The Maker's mark is registered to Thomas Wallis II during this exact window.
Origin & Manufacturing
London, England; hand-wrought in a traditional London workshop.
Era & Period
George III / Late Georgian Period (1808)
Age Estimate
Produced in 1808 based on the 'n' date letter and George III duty mark.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Golden Age' of English silver when London was the center of global silversmithing excellence and pieces were used as mobile stores of wealth.
Condition Notes
Excellent for age. The hallmarks show minimal wear. Expected light surface scratches consistent with 200+ years of careful use. No signs of repair or thinning. Grade: Excellent.
Value Estimate
$120 - $250 USD per individual piece, depending on specific form (spoon vs fork) and weight.
Care & Maintenance
Gentle hand washing in warm soapy water; use a high-quality silver cream like Wright's only when necessary to remove heavy tarnish. Store in acid-free tissue or Pacific Silvercloth.
Similar Pieces
Pieces by Thomas Northcote or William Eley & William Fearn; similar in form but distinguished by unique maker's marks and slight variations in bowl or tine shape.
Interesting Facts
Thomas Wallis II was one of the most prolific 'spoonmakers' of his era, but his work is noted for having a higher standard of finish than many of his industrial competitors.