Antique Silver Chamberstick


Date: 1830

Maker: Joseph Willmore

Country: England

Stock: 9580

Description

A small antique silver chamberstick or taperstick in the form of a leaf with a raised flower head. Small size.

Weight 44 grams, 1.4 troy ounces.
Height 4.4cm. Length 9.5cm.
Birmingham 1830.
Maker Joseph Willmore.
Sterling silver.

Marks. Stamped on the top edge with a full set of English silver hallmarks.

Biography

Joseph Willmore

Born in 1773, Joseph Willmore was the grandson of Thomas Willmore, an original member of the Birmingham Assay Office established 1773. Thomas’ first mark used 1773-1801 in partnership with James Alston, though working independently. Willmore was a buckle maker, Alston a button maker.
Joseph registered his mark in 1806 at the Birmingham Assay Office as a snuff-box maker, for which he is highly regarded, especially for his snuff boxes with repoussé or ‘castle-top’ lids. He later also registered at the London Assay Office in 1814-15, opening a showroom in Bouverie Street.
Joseph took on his grandfather’s business on his death in 1816, and expanded the variety of silver wares. For example, at the Birmingham Assay Office, he registered as a maker of knife and fork handles in 1831, and a maker of silver-gilt knives, forks and spoons in 1832. He continued to register makers marks until 1843, and died in 1855. His apprentice George Unite became a renowned silversmith in his own right.

Condition

The candlestick is in very good condition. Crisp finish.

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