George IV Sterling Silver Old English Pattern Serving Piece by Charles Boyton I
Flatware (likely a Tablespoon or Serving Spoon) · Charles Boyton I (active early 19th Century, London). Boyton was a prolific and highly respected spoonmaker whose workshop was established in the early 1800s, becoming a significant name in London silver manufacturing through multiple generations.
Pattern: Old English Pattern, a classic georgian design introduced in the mid-18th century and widely popular for its elegant simplicity.
Type
Flatware (likely a Tablespoon or Serving Spoon)
Maker
Charles Boyton I (active early 19th Century, London). Boyton was a prolific and highly respected spoonmaker whose workshop was established in the early 1800s, becoming a significant name in London silver manufacturing through multiple generations.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), as indicated by the Lion Passant hallmark.
Dimensions
Estimated length 20-22 cm (8-9 inches) if a tablespoon; typical weight 60-75 grams (approx. 2.0 - 2.4 troy oz).
Description
A fine example of early 19th-century London silvercraft. This piece by Charles Boyton I reflects the high standard of Georgian flatware, featuring a substantial gauge of silver and the crisp hallmarks prized by collectors of English silver.
Key Features
Prominent maker's mark 'CB' accompanied by a sun/starburst stamp; clear, well-struck date and duty marks confirming the precise year of 1825.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), as indicated by the Lion Passant hallmark.
Finish & Decoration
Polished silver with a plain, unadorned finish characteristic of the Old English style. The surface shows an authentic patina of fine 'use marks' or scratches consistent with age.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The item features a full set of London hallmarks: 1. Maker's Mark 'CB' for Charles Boyton I; 2. Lion Passant (British Sterling standard); 3. Leopard's Head (London Assay Office); 4. Date Letter 'k' (1825); 5. Sovereign's Head (George IV Duty Mark).
Construction Details
Hand-forged from a single ingot of silver. The tapering handle and rounded terminal are achieved through skilled hammering (planishing) and filing.
Functional Features
Rounded handle terminal designed for ergonomic grip; deep bowl expected for liquid service.
Handle & Grip Details
Classic spatulate handle shape known as 'Old English.' The terminal turns down slightly, intended for placement in the traditional table setting of the era.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent hand-forged quality. The marks are struck squarely on the 'stem' or 'back' of the handle, showing typical displacement of metal from a heavy punch strike.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark sequence is perfectly consistent with 1825 London standards; wear patterns are honest; the 'CB' mark aligns with registered punch records for Charles Boyton at Foster Lane.
Origin & Manufacturing
London, England. Hallmarked at the London Assay Office, the center of English silversmithing excellence.
Era & Period
George IV / Late Georgian (1820-1830). This period represents the refinement of neo-classical utility, moving toward more substantial weights than early Georgian pieces.
Age Estimate
Dated 1825 based on the specific lowercase 'k' date letter in a shield and the George IV duty mark.
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of the British 'Service à la française' dining style, where elegant but sturdy flatware was a primary indicator of gentry status.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition. Surface exhibits heavy micro-scratching ('butler's finish') consistent with nearly 200 years of use. Marks are well-preserved with minimal rubbing.
Value Estimate
$120 - $185 USD for a single serving spoon; higher if part of a monogrammed set or featuring an interesting crest.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap and water; polish exclusively with a high-quality paste like Wright's Silver Cream using a soft cotton cloth. Avoid machine washing.
Similar Pieces
Flatware by makers like William Chawner or the Bateman family. Boyton pieces are often heavier and more utilitarian than the Bateman 'dainty' style.
Interesting Facts
The Charles Boyton firm survived for over a century, eventually becoming Charles Boyton & Son Ltd, known for Art Deco silver in the 1930s. This 1825 piece represents the firm's early roots.