Georgian Silver Table Centrepiece


Date: 1801

Maker: William Pitts

Country: England

Stock: 8400

Description

A large and very impressive antique sterling silver epergne with 5 matching cut crystal dishes. Excellent quality. This elegant silver table centre comprises an oval stand, decorated with leaves and swags, to which the 4 side arms are attached. A useful feature is that the oval centre can be used on its own, or with a combination of 1,2 ,3 or all 4 arms.The weight of silver is 2095 grams, 67.3 troy ounces. Dimensions – Total width (with glass) 68 cms, depth 62 cms, height 23.5 cms. Silver width 63 cms, depth 58 cms, height 23.5 cms. Oval glass length 30 cms, width 22 cms. Each piece of silver is marked and fully matching. London 1801. By William Peaston.

Biography

William Pitts

William Pitts, London silversmith, apprenticed to his father Thomas Pitts I, Citizen and Goldsmith, 1769. Free 1784. First mark entered as plateworker, 1781. Second mark 1786. Third mark, in partnership with Joseph Preedy, 1791. Pitts specialised (alone and with Preedy) in the production of fine quality epergnes, dessert baskets and stands. Fourth mark, alone, 1799. Fifth mark 1806. His son, William, was apprenticed to his father 1806. By 1816, William Pitts had begun to specialise in producing ornate cast candlesticks in the rococo style and decorated with animals, flowers, shells and scroll-work; at this time he also became known for his magnificent sideboard dishes. He went on to work as a designer, sculptor and chaser for Paul Storr - the most important of all 19th century silversmiths.

Condition

This spectacular antique table centerpiece is in excellent condition with no damage or restoration. Each piece of silver is marked and fully matching. The cut crystal dishes are in good condition with some wear and frits, 1 replacement. 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.

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