1830s Henry Wilkinson Old English Sheffield Silverplate Wine Coolers / Champagne Buckets - A Pair

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Add elegance to any dinner party or intimate tête-à-tête wine evening with this pair of exceptionally ornate 1830s silverplate wine … Read more Add elegance to any dinner party or intimate tête-à-tête wine evening with this pair of exceptionally ornate 1830s silverplate wine coolers by Henry Wilkinson & Co. One of Sheffield’s premier silversmiths of the early 19th century, Wilkinson opened his firm in 1831 and quickly became renowned for luxurious Old Sheffield Plate of unusually high craftsmanship—an artistry fully on display in these magnificent pieces. These are heirloom quality treasures which have been handed down for generations for almost 200 years; now offered as a rare opportunity to continue that lovely tradition in your own family.

The coolers feature deeply chased acanthus scrollwork, sculptural grape clusters, and an elegant scalloped rim, all raised over a richly cast pedestal foot. Both front and back center shields feature heraldry engravings. On the front, the image of a broken halberd plunged into the earth accompanies the motto: "Nec Infitet Animus"; en verso a crossed-halberd armorial design within a striated field.

The symbolism in the engravings is inspiring. In accordance with amorial tradition, valuable items such as these offer homage to one's ancestors through the display of elements from the family's crest. In heraldry, a broken weapon—whether a sword, spear, or axe—does not represent defeat. Instead, it traditionally symbolizes victory through sacrifice, moral courage / steadfastness, or a notable act of bravery. This, coupled with the family motto, "Nec Infitit Animus" - The Spirit Does Not Fail, reinforces the significance of noble virtues such as honor and perserverance.

Extensive research into these provenance-tied heraldry elements suggests this cooler was a much loved possession of a family with the surname "Eccles"; a hand-wrought inscription on the underside, "M.L.E Jr.", strengthens this connection. As often seen in these early 19thC Old Sheffield pieces, no makers marks are observed but we have utmost confident in our assessment, owing to the distinctly elegant design and records of matching pieces previously offered elsewhere, that this is a creation of the esteemed Henry Wilkinson & Co.

So significant is this pair, they were appraised (off-air) by Antiques Roadshow experts in their 2024 appearance at Crystal Bridges Museum.

A rare surviving example of early Wilkinson silverplate, this wine cooler is as functional as it is collectible—ideal for Champagne service, a floral arrangement, or as a statement piece in a Regency or traditional interior.

Each cooler retains its orginal removable, collared insert used to hold the ice and bottle. Many times these are lost when passed from generation to generation. The fact that they are still present is yet another testament not only to the importance of these pieces to the family who treasured them for almost 200 years but also to the enduring admiration of exquisite British Old Sheffield silver.

Dimensions: overall, 10"dia. x 9.5"h; footer, 6.6"dia.; insert, cylindrical vessel, 5.5" dia. x 7.5"h, insert collar, 7.75"dia; opening for bottle with collar, 4.8" dia..

With the insert collar in place, will accommodate up to a Magnum, and perhaps a Jeroboam. Larger formats (Rehoboam+) are dependent on individual vintner and glassblower preferences.

Excellent antique condition with lovely patina and crisp details, no splits, no loss of silverplating, only minor wear on footer. Heraldry engraving is faint and can only be seen by direct illumination. Listing photos have enhanced the engraved images in order to be available for your review. The interior of the original insert and cooler have minor water marks from 200 years of use. The coolers will arrive newly polished and ready for your enjoyment. See less