George V Sterling Silver Two-Handled Trophy Cup by Mappin & Webb
Trophy/Cup (Hollowware) · Mappin & Webb. Founded in 1775, they are a preeminent British silversmith holding multiple Royal Warrants. Known for high-quality sporting trophies and luxury silverware.
Pattern: Classic Campana or Goblet form; traditionally used for sporting awards or presentation pieces; production c. 1920s.
Type
Trophy/Cup (Hollowware)
Maker
Mappin & Webb. Founded in 1775, they are a preeminent British silversmith holding multiple Royal Warrants. Known for high-quality sporting trophies and luxury silverware.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid construction with no evidence of weighted filling in this specific shot.
Dimensions
Estimated 12-15 cm in height. Weight approximately 150-250 grams (4.8 to 8 troy oz) based on similar Mappin & Webb trophies from this period.
Description
An elegant sterling silver presentation trophy of classic proportions. This piece reflects the understated luxury of the post-WWI era, blending functional sport-trophy aesthetics with the fine craftsmanship of a Royal Warrant holder.
Key Features
Distinctive Mappin & Webb 'M&W' rectangular hallmark strike; cast floral/scroll handle terminals; deep, uniform bowl with a subtle flared lip.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Solid construction with no evidence of weighted filling in this specific shot.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish with a simple flared rim. Features cast acanthus or scroll motif handles. Neoclassical influence with minimal engraving, highlighting the silver's luster.
Hallmarks & Stamps
British hallmarks: 'M&W' (Maker's mark), Lion Passant (Sterling), Leopard's Head (London Assay Office), and a date letter (appears to be a lowercase 'f' for 1921 or 'h' for 1923, George V era).
Construction Details
Spun body with a raised neck; handles are cast separately and hand-soldered to the body. Features a stepped, weighted-look circular base.
Functional Features
Two-handled design for ceremonial 'loving cup' use or display. Flared rim for ease of pours if used as a vessel.
Handle & Grip Details
Cast solid silver scroll handles with thumb rests. Securely soldered at two points (rim and mid-body) for structural integrity.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality machine-assisted spinning for the bowl with expert hand-finishing on the seams and handle attachments. Hallmarks are crisp and well-registered.
Authentication Indicators
The hallmarks are struck with high-quality steel dies and show appropriate wear. Solder joins at the handles show the slight 'halo' expected of authentic period hand-assembly.
Origin & Manufacturing
London, England. Manufactured in the specialized workshops of Mappin & Webb, likely at their Sheffield or London facilities.
Era & Period
George V / Early 20th Century (c. 1910-1935). Reflects the late Edwardian preference for clean, neoclassical lines over Victorian clutter.
Age Estimate
Circa 1920-1925 based on the style of the hallmark shield and the specific font of the date letter and maker's mark.
Cultural Significance
Represents the British tradition of amateur sportsmanship and the 'presentation culture' of the early 20th-century upper middle class.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Minor surface micro-scratching consistent with age and light polishing. No significant dents, rim warping, or solder repairs visible.
Value Estimate
$350 - $600 USD depending on the exact weight and whether there is a historical inscription on the reverse side.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a high-quality cream like Wright's. Avoid silver 'dips' which can strip the patina from the handle crevices. Store in a tarnish-free cloth bag.
Similar Pieces
Often confused with Silver Plate (EPNS) versions which lack the Lion Passant. Similar to Walker & Hall or Elkington trophies, though M&W carries a higher brand premium.
Interesting Facts
Mappin & Webb has produced icons such as the Wimbledon Ladie's Trophy and the Ryder Cup. Small trophies like this were often given as private club prizes for golf or tennis.