George IV Sterling Silver Napkin Ring by Robert Hennell II, London, 1835
Napkin Ring · Robert Hennell II. The Hennell family was a prominent dynasty of London silversmiths starting in the 18th century, known for high-quality domestic silver. Robert Hennell II entered his mark in 1802 and is celebrated for his fine craftsmanship during the Regency and early Victorian periods.
Pattern: Plain Cylindrical with Rolled Edges; a classic Regency/early Victorian utilitarian design. While not part of a named retail 'collection,' it follows high-status household standards of the period.
Type
Napkin Ring
Maker
Robert Hennell II. The Hennell family was a prominent dynasty of London silversmiths starting in the 18th century, known for high-quality domestic silver. Robert Hennell II entered his mark in 1802 and is celebrated for his fine craftsmanship during the Regency and early Victorian periods.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid construction without base metal or plating.
Dimensions
Standard napkin ring size: approximately 4.5 cm in diameter and 3 cm in height. Estimated weight: 35-45 grams (1.1-1.4 troy oz).
Description
This is a fine example of late Georgian silver from one of London's most respected workshops. The napkin ring exhibits a refined simplicity, relying on the quality of the heavy-gauge silver and the precision of the Hennell hallmarks rather than ornate decoration. The interior shows the faint artifacts of hand-finishing, and the exterior retains a brilliant luster characteristic of high-purity sterling.
Key Features
Exceptional clarity of the Robert Hennell II maker's mark; heavy-gauge sterling construction; rare transitional 'King's Head' duty mark from 1835.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid construction without base metal or plating.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with engine-turned or planished interior surface visible. Features a rolled rim for structural integrity and comfort. Includes a partial 'From...' presentation engraving in a serif font on the lower rim.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Full British Hallmarks for London: 1) Maker's Mark 'RH' (Robert Hennell II); 2) Lion Passant (Sterling purity); 3) Leopard's Head (London assay office); 4) Date Letter 'u' (1835); 5) King's Head Duty Mark (William IV).
Construction Details
Hand-raised from a flat sheet of sterling silver, seamed with a high-quality vertical silver solder joint, and finished with horizontally rolled edges for reinforcement.
Functional Features
Open cylindrical form designed to hold a folded linen napkin. The rolled edges prevent snagging the fabric.
Handle & Grip Details
Not applicable; single-piece cylindrical form.
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-wrought evidence is visible in the slight variations of the rolled edge and the interior surface finish. The hallmark strike is exceptionally clean, indicating a master's touch.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmarks are struck in the correct sequence for 1835 London silver. The spacing and depth of the punches are consistent with period hand-striking. The 'RH' mark matches known registry entries for Hennell.
Origin & Manufacturing
London, England. Manufactured in the Robert Hennell workshop, known for meticulous hand-finishing and adherence to the strict London Assay standards.
Era & Period
George IV / William IV Transition (Late Georgian). The 1835 date places it in the final years of the pre-Victorian era, characterized by substantial weight and classical proportions.
Age Estimate
1835 (Precisely dated by the 'u' date letter and William IV duty mark).
Cultural Significance
Napkin rings were traditionally given as christening or wedding gifts. This piece, with its 'From...' inscription, served as a tangible link in 19th-century social gifting and dining etiquette.
Condition Notes
Excellent condition. The silver shows light surface micro-scratching consistent with age and occasional polishing. The hallmarks are crisp and not over-polished. The form remains perfectly circular without compression dents.
Value Estimate
$150 - $250 USD. Value is driven by the prestige of the Hennell maker's mark and the excellent condition of the 1830s hallmarks.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a high-quality non-abrasive cream like Wright's Silver Cream. Avoid 'dip' cleaners which can strip the protective patina from the hallmarked recesses. Store in a tarnish-resistant cloth bag.
Similar Pieces
Victorian Chased Napkin Rings (often more ornate/floral); Sheffield Plate Napkin Rings (lighter, showing copper bleed); Modern 20th-century Sterling rings (often machine-pressed and lighter weight).
Interesting Facts
The Hennell family's work is held in major museums, including the V&A in London. In 1835, napkin rings were becoming essential status symbols for the emerging middle and upper classes as individual dining service became standardized.