George III Antique Silver Tongs

Description

An elegant pair of Irish silver serving tongs with pierced and engraved decoration. To the front is an attractive hand engraved crest of a lion. The mechanical scissor action provides a good secure grip.

Weight 223 grams, 7.1 troy oz.
Length 27cm, 10.6ins. Width 7.1cm.
Dublin 1811.
Maker James West & Son.
Sterling silver.

Perfect table item for serving bread and pastries.

Marks. Stamped on both pieces up the handle with a full set of Irish silver marks.

The tongs are in very good condition with sharp definition to the engravings.

Maker: James West & Son

James West & Son, Dublin silversmiths, originated from 1720 and was first documented in 1748 when John West was apprenticed to Bartholomew, master silversmith of Dublin. John’s brother Matthew was apprenticed in 1762. Both became working silversmiths. Matthew became Master of the Company of Goldsmiths in 1783/4 and one of the most renowned silversmiths of Dublin, active at Skinner's Row. In the 19th century the family silversmith and retailer business became Clarke & West (c. 1803, Capel Street), Matthew West, Matthew West & Sons (c.1825) and later became James West & Son (from 1841 in new premises at 18/19, College Green), one of the foremost jewellers in Ireland. The British Royal Collection has two brooches made by West & Son. They were bought by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria on a visit to Dublin in 1849. West & Son took part in the 1851 Great Exhibition in London and the Dublin Exhibition of 1853. Their replicas of antique Irish ornaments, characterized by sinuous, intricate patterning, played an important role in the revival of ancient Celtic designs and in the development of Arts and Crafts movement. After the death of James West (1877) the firm was managed by his son Langley Archer West (d. 1932) in partnership (1902-1912) with Charles Howard Lawson, George William Thornley and George Crowly. In 1912 the firm transferred to new premises at 102/103 Grafton Street, Dublin (from 1965 at 33 Grafton Street). West & Son closed on 13 February 2010.

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