Edwardian Sterling Silver Flatware by George Jackson & David Fullerton
Flatware · George Jackson & David Fullerton (Josiah Williams & Co). Founded in Bristol, this partnership was highly prolific in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for high-quality domestic silver.
Pattern: Likely a Classic English pattern such as Old English or Fiddle, common for the era; specific pattern requires a full view of the front handle.
Type
Flatware
Maker
George Jackson & David Fullerton (Josiah Williams & Co). Founded in Bristol, this partnership was highly prolific in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, known for high-quality domestic silver.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), solid composition throughout.
Dimensions
Estimated spoon or fork length of 17-21 cm; approximate weight between 45 and 75 grams depending on specifically being a dessert or table piece.
Description
A fine example of early 20th-century British sterling silver from a renowned partnership. The piece features a crisp set of hallmarks that serve as a testament to the rigid standards of the London Goldsmiths' Hall during the Edwardian era.
Key Features
Distinct 'GJ' over 'DF' maker's mark and the specific 1907 London date letter.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity), solid composition throughout.
Finish & Decoration
Original polished surface now showing heavy patina and 'fine use' scratches; traditional plain finish typical of the early 20th century.
Hallmarks & Stamps
London Assay Office (Leopard's Head), Sterling Silver (Lion Passant), and Date Letter 'm' (1907). Maker's mark 'GJ over DF' for Jackson and Fullerton.
Construction Details
Die-struck from a single sheet of sterling silver with hallmarks struck post-manufacturing at the London Assay office.
Functional Features
Standard ergonomic flatware design intended for daily use or formal dining service.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid silver handle, integral to the piece; evidence of light wear along the edges from handling.
Craftsmanship Details
Excellent strike quality on the hallmarks; uniform thickness and balance indicate high-quality industrial-era silversmithing.
Authentication Indicators
Hallmark consistency is excellent; the spacing and depth of the Lion Passant and Leopard's head are consistent with 1907 punches used at London.
Origin & Manufacturing
London, England. Struck at the London Assay Office but potentially manufactured in the firm’s Bristol workshop.
Era & Period
Edwardian Period (1901-1910), characterized by a return to classic, simpler forms after the ornate Victorian era.
Age Estimate
Exactly 1907 based on the 'm' date letter for the London cycle.
Cultural Significance
Reflects the peak of the British Empire's domestic silver production, where high-quality sterling was accessible to the rising middle class.
Condition Notes
Good antique condition; visible surface scratching and 'nesting' marks consistent with age; hallmarks remain legible and clear.
Value Estimate
$40 - $85 USD depending on the specific form (serving pieces command higher prices than standard forks).
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with mild soap; use a high-quality silver cream like Wright's to restore luster without removing too much metal.
Similar Pieces
Flatware by Robert Pringle & Sons or Mappin & Webb from the same period; differences lie primarily in the maker's mark and regional assay office.
Interesting Facts
The firm Josiah Williams & Co was the largest silversmith in the West of England, frequently supplying retailers in London.