Mid-Victorian Sterling Silver Sugar Bowl or Creamer, London, c. 1858
Hollowware (Tea Service component) · Unknown London Silversmith; the maker's mark is partially visible/rubbed near the top, typical of mid-19th century London production known for high-quality domestic hollowware.
Pattern: Plain George III style revival with reeded borders; characteristic of functional Victorian domestic silver.
Type
Hollowware (Tea Service component)
Maker
Unknown London Silversmith; the maker's mark is partially visible/rubbed near the top, typical of mid-19th century London production known for high-quality domestic hollowware.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Evidence of solid composition with hand-applied reeded rim.
Dimensions
Estimated 4-5 inches in diameter; weight likely between 150-250 grams depending on whether it is a sugar bowl or creamer.
Description
An elegant and substantial mid-Victorian silver hollowware piece featuring a classic reeded rim and polished finish. Its simple design reflects the enduring popularity of Georgian aesthetics during the mid-19th century.
Key Features
London leopard hallmark, Lion Passant, 1858 date letter, and the characteristic Queen Victoria duty mark (used 1838-1890).
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity). Evidence of solid composition with hand-applied reeded rim.
Finish & Decoration
Mirror polish finish with a reeded (threaded) rim. Style is Neoclassical/Late Georgian revival popular during the early-middle Victorian era.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Contains a full set of British Hallmarks for London: Lion Passant (purity), Leopard's Head (London), Queen Victoria's Duty Mark, and a Date Letter 'c' in a shield (1858).
Construction Details
Raised by hand from a flat sheet of silver; the reeded rim is a separate wire application soldered to the top edge.
Functional Features
Includes a reinforced rim for structural integrity and likely a flared body to contain granulated sugar or cream.
Handle & Grip Details
Fragment of a handle attachment visible near the top; likely a scrolled silver handle soldered to the body.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent hand-raised construction with distinct compression marks from the planishing process visible under magnification.
Authentication Indicators
The hallmark spacing, depth, and the specific shape of the date letter shield are consistent with 1850s London assay standards. Authentic wear patterns around the rim.
Origin & Manufacturing
London, England. Produced in a traditional workshop using manual hammer-raising and chasing techniques.
Era & Period
Mid-Victorian (1837-1901); specifically 1858 based on the hallmark sequence.
Age Estimate
Circa 1858. The date letter 'c' and the presence of the Queen Victoria duty mark confirm this precise window.
Cultural Significance
Represents the formalization of afternoon tea in Victorian Britain, where silver service pieces were essential status symbols for the middle and upper classes.
Condition Notes
Very Good. Visible surface scratches (cleaning wear) and light tarnish near the hallmarks. The marks are slightly rubbed but legible.
Value Estimate
$250 - $450 USD depending on the clarity of the maker's mark and the presence of a matching set.
Care & Maintenance
Hand polish with high-quality silver cream (e.g., Wright's); avoid aggressive dipping. Store in an anti-tarnish cloth bag.
Similar Pieces
Comparable to Chawner & Co or Robert Hennell IV pieces of the same era, which often utilized similar reeded borders.
Interesting Facts
The 'Duty Mark' (Victoria's head) indicates that a tax was paid to the Crown upon the production of this item, a practice abolished later in the century.