Thomas Wallis II George III Sterling Silver Spoon
Flatware (Spoon) · Thomas Wallis II, a prominent London silversmith known for high-quality flatware, active starting in the late 18th century.
Pattern: Fiddle Pattern, introduced in the late 18th century, becoming the most popular British flatware style of the 19th century.
Type
Flatware (Spoon)
Maker
Thomas Wallis II, a prominent London silversmith known for high-quality flatware, active starting in the late 18th century.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) as indicated by the Lion Passant hallmark. No mixed materials visible.
Dimensions
Estimated length 17-21 cm (standard for dessert or table spoons); weight typically ranges from 45 to 65 grams depending on specific size.
Description
A classic example of late Georgian silverware, this spoon features the clean lines of the Fiddle pattern. Crafted by Thomas Wallis II, it represents the high standard of London silversmithing at the turn of the 19th century.
Key Features
Distinctive 'TW' maker's mark and the presence of the sovereign's head duty mark, which was required on silver after 1784.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) as indicated by the Lion Passant hallmark. No mixed materials visible.
Finish & Decoration
Polished mirror finish with no surface engraving or chasing; typical of the utilitarian yet elegant Fiddle pattern of the Georgian era.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Full set of London hallmarks: 'TW' (Thomas Wallis II), Lion Passant (Sterling), Leopard's Head (London), date letter 'n' (1808), and George III Duty Mark.
Construction Details
Hand-forged from a single ingot of silver; the marks show a deep strike characteristic of manual hammer-and-punch application.
Functional Features
Tapered handle transitioning to a rounded bowl; the 'shoulders' near the bowl are a hallmark of the Fiddle pattern for better grip.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid sterling silver handle in the Fiddle shape with a squared-off end, integral to the body of the spoon.
Craftsmanship Details
Exhibits excellent hand-finishing; the hallmarks are placed with precision along the stem, showing a master's touch in the striking process.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark sequence is chronologically consistent (Duty mark + Lion Passant + Date letter 'n'); typical patination around the stamp recesses.
Origin & Manufacturing
London, England; hallmarked at the London Assay Office during the Napoleonic Wars era.
Era & Period
Georgian Period (George III reign), specifically 1808, reflecting the transition toward more robust flatware styles.
Age Estimate
Precisely dated to 1808 based on the lowercase 'n' date letter and the George III duty mark.
Cultural Significance
Fiddle pattern silver became the standard for the rising British middle class, symbolizing stability and understated wealth.
Condition Notes
Very Good condition; hallmarks are crisp and legible. Minor surface scratches consistent with 200+ years of age and light polishing wear.
Value Estimate
$80 - $150 USD depending on whether it is a dessert or table spoon and the absence of heavy monograms.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver polish like Wright’s Silver Cream; store in a Pacific Silvercloth roll to prevent oxidation.
Similar Pieces
William Eley or William Fearn Fiddle pattern spoons; these contemporary makers often shared similar stylistic traits but with different maker's marks.
Interesting Facts
The George III duty mark was an excise tax used to fund the wars against Napoleon Bonaparte.