Antique Silver Baby Rattle


Date: Circa 1840

Maker: Joseph Willmore

Country: England

Stock: 7086

Description

A delightful antique sterling silver child's rattle complete with a whistle and real pink coral teether. There are 10 silver bells attached. The embossed decoration is very pretty with flowers and scrolls.Weight 60 grams, 2 troy ounces. Length 14 cms. Makers mark only for Joseph Willmore. Circa 1840.


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

This pretty baby's rattle is in excellent condition with no damage or restoration. The silver bells are complete and matching. The maker's mark JW is clear and easy to read. There are no silver hallmarks. There whistle has a few very minor dinks and the coral teether has a small wear mark (see photos). 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.

Images