Description

A rare early antique silver tankard with straight sides and a simple strap handle. Britannnia standard silver*. Small size and suitable as a childs christening mug. Typical decoration of the period with a high relief gadroon band around the centre, a reeded band around the base and 3 bands of hand engraved stars and loop motifs. Excellent colour. To the front is an vacant cartouche with scroll and fish scale decoration.

Contains 240 ml.

Weight 116 grams, 3.7 troy ounces.

Height 9 cms. Diameter 6.5 cms (top), 7 cms (base).

London 1705.

Maker probably Matthew Cooper.

Literature: *Britannia Standard silver. In 1696, so extensive had become the melting and clipping of coinage that the silversmiths were forbidden to use the sterling standard for their wares, but had to use a new higher standard, 95.8 per cent pure. New hallmarks were ordered, “the figure of a woman commonly called Britannia” and the lion’s head erased (torn off at the neck) replacing the lion passant and the leopard’s head crowned. This continued until the old standard of 92.5 per cent was restored in 1720. Britannia standard silver still continues to be produced even today.

This superb mug is in very good condition and has no repairs or restoration. Excellent patina. The silver marks are a little rubbed but still clear although the makers mark isn't fully struck. One minor bruise on one side. 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: Matthew Cooper

Matthew Cooper, apprenticed to Robert Cooper 1693. Turned over 1693 to Joseph Bird. First mark entered as largeworker, 1702. . Signatory as “working goldsmith” to the petition complaining of the competition of “necessitous foreigners not having served seven years of apprenticeship", February 1716. Son Robert apprenticed to him, 1725. His mark is usually found on candlesticks, as is his master Joseph Bird. He was church warden of St John Zachary in 1713.

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