Description

A handsome antique sterling silver table centre modelled as The Three Graces supporting an shaped openwork basket with a cast floral rim. The tall spreading base terminates in three large scroll feet. Excellent quality and fine attention to detail. Weight 2846 grams, 91.5 troy ounces. Height 43 cms. Diameter of basket 14 cms. Spread of base 26 cms. Hallmarked on the basket and base for London 1874. Maker E & J Barnard.

Literature: The three mythological charities Euphrosyne, Aglaea and Thalia, daughters of Zeus, were known in Greek mythology as The Three Graces, and were said to represent beauty, charm and joy. In Roman mythology they were known as the Gratiae. They have been depicted since ancient Greek times in many paintings and sculptures, including the 15th century Primavera by Botticelli and the 19th century neoclassical sculpture in marble The Three Graces sculpture by Antonio Canova.

This superb sterling silver statue is in very good condition with no restoration. Stamped with a full and clear set of English silver hallmarks on the pedestal base and the edge of the basket. Each figure has the makers mark stamped underneath one foot. There is an unevenness to one side of the basket. Please note that this item is not new and will show moderate signs of wear commensurate with age. Reflections in the photograph may detract from the true representation of this item.

Maker: Edward Barnard & Sons

This old established manufacturing silversmith business was started by Anthony Nelme c.1680 passing to Francis Nelme on his death in 1722. Thomas Whipham took over the business in 1739, passing it to his son Thomas Whipham jr in 1756 who took into partnership Charles Wright. The Barnard's involvement started in 1786 when the business was taken over by Henry Chawner; Chawner had been Edward Barnard I’s master and Barnard’s son Edward became foreman of the firm. In 1796 John Emes became a partner and after the retirement of Chawner, Emes became owner maintaining Edward Barnard II as manager. Emes died in 1808 and his widow Rebecca Emes took as partner Edward Barnard II. Rebecca Emes retired in 1829 and Edward Barnard I took over with his son Edward Barnard II, John Barnard and William Barnard, trading under the name Edward Barnard & Sons. After the retirement of Edward Barnard I the firm was continued by Edward Barnard II (1846-1851), John Barnard I (1846-1868), William Barnard (1846), Edward Barnard III (1868), Walter Barnard (1868-1903), John Barnard II (1868-1903), Michael Barnard (1896-1903), Stanley Barnard (1896-1903) and Robert Dubcock (1896). The firm became a limited liability company in 1910 as Edward Barnard & Sons Ltd. In 1977 Edward Barnard & Sons Limited became a subsidiary of Padgett & Braham Ltd.

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