Description

A rare pair of early antique silver candlesticks dating from the reign of William III. Britannia standard silver*. These fine candlesticks stand on square canted corner bases with reed columns and multiple gadroon borders. Fixed circular candle sconces. To the front of the base there is a hand engraved coat of arms almost certainly for Gregory de Ligne Gregory (1786-1854).

Weight 837 grams, 26.9 troy ounces.
Height 23.5 cms. Base 14.25 cms.
London 1700.
Maker Richard Syng, London.

Marks. Fully stamped underneath with matching English silver hallmarks.

Provenance: Gregory de Ligne Gregory (1786-1854) of Harlaxton Manor, Lincolnshire, by bequest to
Sir Glynne Earle Welby-Gregory 3rd Bt. (1806-1875) and then by descent.

Inventory of articles (heirlooms, including library and works of art) at Harlaxton New Manor House, 1864-66, National Archives, Kew, Ms. J 90/1217, p. 74, ‘Plate’:
No. 25, ‘A pair of fluted toilet table candlesticks from Stow – 49 oz. 15 dwt.’

Part of a toilet service (see last photo).

Literature: *Britannia Standard. 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. 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.

Very good, particularly considering their age. Good weight and fine patina. A few very minor dinks on the columns. The arms are crisp, later done.

Maker: Richard Syng

Richard Syng, London silversmith. Free 1687. 1st mark registered 1697.

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